Do Oklahoma Courts Listen to Child Preference in Custody Cases?

Child Preference

In Oklahoma custody cases, one of the most common questions parents ask is whether the court will listen to the child’s preference. While children’s wishes are taken into consideration, they are not the only factor courts look at when deciding custody. Oklahoma law focuses on what is in the best interests of the child, and child preference is just one piece of the puzzle. How Oklahoma Law Handles Child Preference Under 43 O.S. § 113, Oklahoma courts may consider a child’s custody preference if the child is… Read More

How Do I Get a Temporary Protective Order?

Temporary Protective Order

If you are facing threats, harassment, or violence, Oklahoma law allows you to seek a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) to help ensure your safety. A TPO is a court order that provides immediate protection until a more permanent solution is possible. Here’s what you need to know about how to get a temporary protective order and what to expect once you do. What Is a Temporary Protective Order? A Temporary Protective Order is a short-term order issued by a judge to protect someone from domestic abuse, harassment,… Read More

How Can Domestic Violence Allegations Impact Custody Decisions?

Domestic Violence Allegations

When domestic violence allegations are part of a family law case, they can have a major impact on how a judge determines custody, visitation, and even parental decision-making authority. Courts take these allegations very seriously because a child’s safety and emotional well-being are top priorities. Here’s what you need to know about how domestic violence claims can affect custody cases in Oklahoma. The Best Interests of the Child Standard In every custody case, Oklahoma courts apply the best interests of the child standard. Judges consider many factors,… Read More

What is the Difference Between a Contested and Uncontested Divorce?

Contested and Uncontested Divorce

If you’re considering divorce in Oklahoma, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether the divorce will be contested or uncontested. The difference between the two lies in how much you and your spouse agree on key issues—and that difference can affect everything from the timeline to the emotional toll and the cost of the process. Here’s what you need to know about contested and uncontested divorces in Oklahoma. What is an Uncontested Divorce? An uncontested divorce happens when both spouses agree on all the major… Read More

What is a Contested Divorce in Oklahoma and How Can it Impact Divorce Proceedings?

Contested Divorce

If you’re going through a divorce in Oklahoma and you and your spouse can’t agree on major issues like property division, child custody, or alimony, your case may become what’s called a “contested divorce.” That means the court will have to step in and make decisions for you. So what exactly is a contested divorce, and how does it affect the divorce process in Oklahoma? Here’s what you need to know. What Does “Contested Divorce” Really Mean? A contested divorce happens when one or both spouses disagree… Read More

Can I get Temporary Alimony in My Oklahoma Divorce?

Temporary Alimony

If you’re going through a divorce in Oklahoma, you may wonder whether you’re eligible for temporary alimony. Oklahoma law allows courts to award temporary spousal support—also called pendente lite alimony—while the divorce is pending. This support can help one spouse cover basic living expenses until after the court finalizes the divorce. What Is Temporary Alimony? Temporary alimony is a short-term financial award that the court orders to help a financially dependent spouse during the divorce process. Unlike other types of alimony, this type of support is only… Read More

How Do I Modify Alimony in Oklahoma?

Modify Alimony

If you’re paying (or receiving) alimony in Oklahoma and your circumstances look very different from when the divorce decree was entered, you may be wondering whether the court will adjust the amount—or end payments altogether. The good news: it’s possible to modify alimony in many situations. The caution: not all “alimony” is modifiable, and Oklahoma law has specific rules, deadlines, and procedures you must follow. Start With Your Divorce Decree: What Kind of “Alimony” Do You Have? Oklahoma decrees often include two very different financial components: support… Read More

What Happens If I Miss an Alimony Payment?

Miss an Alimony Payment

If you miss an alimony payment, it can come with serious legal consequences. Alimony—also called spousal support—is often ordered as part of a divorce decree in Oklahoma. Once the court orders you to make alimony payments, those payments are legally enforceable. Whether you’re paying or receiving alimony, it’s important to understand what happens when payments aren’t made and what options exist to enforce or modify the order. Alimony Is a Court Order In Oklahoma, alimony is based on what the judge believes is equitable given the circumstances… Read More

What Does It Mean If The Family Court Garnishes My Wages?

Prepare Financially For Divorce

If you’re part of a child support or spousal support case in Oklahoma and receive notice that the court is going to garnish your wages, it can be confusing and stressful. Wage garnishment is a legal process where the court orders your employer to withhold part of your paycheck and send it directly to the person you owe money to—usually a custodial parent or former spouse. Why the Court Garnishes Wages Family court judges order wage garnishment to ensure that court-ordered support obligations are paid consistently. If… Read More

What Does it Mean to be in Contempt of Court?

Contempt of Court

If you’re involved in a legal case in Oklahoma, you may hear the term “contempt of court.” Being held in contempt is serious. It means a judge believes you violated a court order or disrespected the court’s authority, which can lead to fines, jail time, or other penalties. Understanding what it means to be in contempt of court can help you avoid costly mistakes and take the right steps to protect your rights. Types of Contempt in Oklahoma In Oklahoma, there are two primary types of contempt:… Read More