Parenting Plans in High-Conflict Divorces: What Tulsa Judges Expect From Both Parents

Parenting Plans in High-Conflict Divorces

In high-conflict divorces, parenting plans are subject to heightened scrutiny by Tulsa judges. When parents cannot cooperate, the court’s focus shifts away from parental preferences and squarely onto structure, predictability, and the child’s stability. In Tulsa divorce cases, judges expect parenting plans to do more than outline visitation. In high-conflict cases, the plan must reduce opportunities for conflict, anticipate disputes, and protect the child from ongoing parental hostility. The Court’s Priority: Reducing Conflict, Not Preserving Parental Control Tulsa judges approach high-conflict cases with a practical mindset. When parents demonstrate ongoing hostility, poor communication,… Read More

Whose Last Name Does a Baby Get If The Parents Are Not Married in Oklahoma

Last Name Does a Baby Get

When a child is born to parents who are not married to each other in Oklahoma, the question of whose last name does a baby get is common. While many people believe there is an automatic rule, the reality is that the decision depends almost entirely on the agreement between the parents and the legal steps taken at the time of birth. Here is a breakdown of how Oklahoma law handles the naming of a child born outside of marriage as of 2026. The Default: The Mother’s… Read More

How Does a Finding of Domestic Abuse Impact a Custody Case in Oklahoma?

Domestic Abuse Impact Custody Case

A finding of Domestic abuse is one of the most serious factors a judge considers in an Oklahoma custody case. When the court finds that domestic violence has occurred—whether against the other parent, the children, or even in the presence of the children—it can fundamentally change the outcome of custody, visitation, and parental decision-making. Oklahoma law requires judges to prioritize a child’s safety above all else, and a documented finding of abuse can strongly limit or even eliminate a parent’s custodial rights. Understanding how abuse allegations or… Read More

What Are The Things Not To Say In A Tulsa Custody Battle?

Things Not To Say

Child custody cases are some of the most emotionally charged disputes in Oklahoma family law. Parents are often stressed, overwhelmed, and unsure of what helps—or hurts—their case. While the court focuses on the best interests of the child, the things you say during a custody battle can have a major impact on how the judge views your ability to co-parent. Knowing what not to say is just as important as knowing what to say. Here are key statements and behaviors to avoid during an Oklahoma custody case. Do Not Speak… Read More

How to Prepare for Divorce in Oklahoma: Your Complete Roadmap

Common Law Marriage

Understanding the process helps you prepare for divorce in Oklahoma. Divorce is one of the most emotional and life-changing experiences a person can go through. Whether you’ve been married for a few years or decades, the process can feel overwhelming. The key to protecting yourself—both legally and emotionally—is preparation. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you get ready for divorce in Oklahoma. Step 1: Understand the Basics of Divorce in Oklahoma Before you begin, it’s important to know the legal framework. Oklahoma recognizes both fault and… Read More

The Benefits of Establishing Paternity of a Child in Tulsa

Establishing Paternity

Establishing paternity is one of the most important steps a parent can take to protect a child’s legal rights and ensure both parents share in their responsibilities. In Oklahoma, paternity means legally identifying a child’s biological father and recognizing him as the child’s legal parent under state law. Whether you’re a mother seeking child support or a father wanting visitation and custody rights, establishing paternity provides significant legal and emotional benefits for both the child and the parents. What Is Paternity in Oklahoma? Paternity refers to the… Read More

Can a Child Receive Counseling During a Custody Dispute? Legal Boundaries for Parents and Therapists in Tulsa

Counseling During a Custody Dispute

In Tulsa, while counseling can help a child cope with the stress of a divorce or custody dispute, parents, attorneys, and therapists must navigate strict confidentiality rules, consent requirements, and court oversight. Understanding these boundaries is essential to protect both the child’s well-being and your custody case. The Role of Counseling in Custody Disputes It’s normal for children to experience stress, confusion, or divided loyalty during a custody battle. Therapy can provide them with a safe space to express their feelings and develop coping strategies. However, therapy during… Read More

What’s the Process to Modify Child Custody in Oklahoma?

Things Not To Say

We often get questions about the process to modify child custody. Life changes after a divorce or custody order – a parent may get a new job, move to another city, or notice that the child’s needs have changed. In Oklahoma, custody orders are not permanent if circumstances change. Either parent can ask the court to modify custody, but the process requires careful legal steps. When Can Custody Be Modified? Oklahoma courts will only change custody if there has been a material, permanent, and substantial change in circumstances that… Read More

Child Custody Jurisdiction in Oklahoma: How Long Does The Child Need To Live In The State?

Child Custody Jurisdiction

For a State to be able to enter an order for custody and visitation of a child, the State of Oklahoma must have jurisdiction. Under Moving to the State by itself is not enough but rather other conditions must be satisfied. Oklahoma law (aligned with the UCCJEA), one of the following must be true for the state to have jurisdiction to make an initial child custody determination: Summary Table Scenario Requirement Explanation Child ≥6-month residency in OK 6 consecutive months Oklahoma automatically has jurisdiction as the home… Read More

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