What Happens if I Miss a Child Support Payment?

Miss a Child Support Payment

If you miss a child support payment in Oklahoma, it can have serious legal and financial consequences. Whether the missed payment is the result of a temporary hardship or an ongoing issue, it’s important to understand your rights, responsibilities, and what steps the state may take to enforce child support orders. This article explains what can happen if you fall behind on child support and what you can do to address the situation. Child Support Is a Court Order When a judge orders child support in Oklahoma—either… Read More

What Should Be in a Parenting Plan in Oklahoma?

What Goes in a Parenting Plan

We often get questions about what exactly goes in a parenting plan. If you’re going through a divorce or custody case in Oklahoma, you’ll likely be required to submit a parenting plan to the court. A well-crafted parenting plan outlines how separated or divorced parents will share responsibilities for raising their child. It reduces confusion, sets expectations, and helps protect the best interests of the child. But what exactly should go into a parenting plan? Here’s what Oklahoma courts typically look for—and what you should consider including…. Read More

What is a Parenting Plan in Oklahoma?

Parenting Plan

If you’re involved in a divorce or child custody case in Oklahoma, you’ll likely hear the term “parenting plan.” But what is it, and why does it matter? A parenting plan is a detailed, court-approved agreement that outlines how two parents will share custody and responsibilities for their child after a separation or divorce. In Oklahoma, parenting plans are a key part of any custody order and are mandatory when courts award joint custody. What Does a Parenting Plan Include? A well-drafted Oklahoma parenting plan addresses more… Read More

What is the Difference Between Child Neglect and Child Abuse?

Child Neglect and Child Abuse

When a child is reported to be in danger, the terms child abuse and child neglect are often used. While both are serious concerns under Oklahoma law, they are not the same. Each has specific legal definitions, consequences, and procedures for investigation and prosecution. Understanding the difference between neglect and abuse is essential if you are part of child welfare case—whether as a parent, family member, educator, or caregiver. What Is Child Abuse in Oklahoma? Child abuse is defined as the willful or malicious harm or threatened… Read More

What is Child Neglect in Oklahoma?

Child Neglect

Child neglect is one of the most serious allegations a parent or guardian can face in Oklahoma. While every parent struggles from time to time, neglect involves more than just making occasional mistakes—it refers to a failure to provide basic care and protection that a child needs to stay healthy and safe. Whether you’re concerned about a child’s welfare or facing a DHS investigation yourself, it’s important to understand how Oklahoma defines child neglect and how it may affect parental rights. How Does Oklahoma Define Child Neglect?… Read More

What is Child Abuse in Oklahoma?

Domestic Abuse Impact Custody Case

In Oklahoma, child abuse is a serious criminal offense, so the state takes allegations very seriously. Whether you’re seeking custody, defending your rights, or reporting a concern, it’s important to understand what the law considers abuse and how the legal system responds. How Does Oklahoma Law Define Child Abuse? Under Oklahoma Statutes Title 10A § 1-1-105, child abuse is defined as: “Harm or threatened harm to a child’s health or safety by a person responsible for the child, including sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, non-accidental physical or mental… Read More

What is a Guardian ad Litem and What Do They Do?

Guardian ad Litem

If you’re part of a child custody, guardianship, or juvenile case in Oklahoma, you may hear the term “guardian ad litem” (or GAL). For many parents, this role can seem confusing or even intimidating at first. But understanding who a guardian ad litem is—and what they do—can help you feel more prepared and informed about the legal process. When Is a Guardian ad Litem Appointed? In Oklahoma, courts usually appoint a GAL in high-conflict custody cases, cases involving abuse or neglect allegations, or when the court needs… Read More

What to Expect at a Child Custody Hearing in Oklahoma

Child Custody Hearing

We often get questions from parents about what to expect at a child custody hearing in Oklahoma. Whether you’re in the middle of a divorce or dealing with a custody dispute outside of marriage, appearing in court to address custody can feel overwhelming. Understanding what happens at a custody hearing—and how best to prepare—can make the process less stressful and help you protect your parental rights. What Is a Child Custody Hearing? A child custody hearing is a court proceeding where a judge considers issues related to… Read More

What is Physical Custody in Oklahoma?

Physical Custody in Oklahoma

One important aspect of custody is physical custody, which determines where the child lives and which parent provides day-to-day care. In Oklahoma, child custody is a key part of family law that focuses on ensuring a child’s best interests are protected during and after a divorce or separation. This article explains how physical custody works in Oklahoma, how it differs from legal custody, and what factors courts consider when awarding it. Understanding Physical Custody Physical custody refers to where the child primarily resides and can be either… Read More

What To Expect At A Divorce Hearing In Oklahoma

What To Expect At A Divorce Hearing In Oklahoma

We often get questions about what to expect at a divorce hearing in Oklahoma. If you’re going through a divorce in Oklahoma, you may need to appear at one or more court hearings before the process is complete. These hearings can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what to expect. Understanding the purpose of a divorce hearing and what typically happens can help ease anxiety and prepare you to protect your rights. What Is a Divorce Hearing? A divorce hearing is a court proceeding where a… Read More