Who Is The Primary Custodial Parent in Oklahoma Child Custody

Primary Custodial Parent

In Oklahoma, the term “primary custodial parent” is widely used by parents and schools, but you might be surprised to learn that it is not formally defined in Oklahoma statutes. Instead, the law focuses on legal custody and physical custody. Whether you are the primary custodial parent depends largely on your marital status and the specific language in your court order. Here is what you need to know about custody designations in 2026. Married vs. Unmarried Parents The “default” primary parent is determined by whether the parents… 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

Temporary Orders in a Tulsa Divorce and Child Custody: What They Are and How They Protect You

Temporary Orders

When a divorce or child custody case begins in Oklahoma, the court must still ensure stability and fairness while the case moves forward. Because a divorce can take a while, Oklahoma law allows judges to issue temporary orders that create rules for both spouses until the final divorce decree is entered. These orders are not permanent, but they play a crucial role in protecting your rights, your finances, and your children during the divorce process. What Are Temporary Orders? Temporary orders are court directives issued shortly after a divorce… 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 Do I File a Fresh Start Bankruptcy in Oklahoma?

Fresh Start Bankruptcy

When debt becomes overwhelming—from medical bills, credit cards, wage garnishments, or repossessions—Oklahoma law provides a powerful tool to help you regain control: the Fresh Start bankruptcy, more commonly known as Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This process allows qualifying individuals to eliminate most unsecured debts and begin rebuilding their financial lives. Understanding how the process works can help you determine whether Chapter 7 is the right option for you or your family. What Is a Fresh Start (Chapter 7) Bankruptcy? A Fresh Start bankruptcy is a legal process that allows you… Read More

How Is Inheritance Handled in an Oklahoma Divorce?

Inheritance in Divorce

When a couple divorces in Oklahoma, one of the most important questions involves how inheritance will be divided. While many assets acquired during the marriage are considered marital property, an inheritance is treated differently under Oklahoma law. Whether an inheritance remains separate or becomes part of the marital estate depends on how it was received, how it was used, and whether it was ever commingled with marital funds. Understanding how Oklahoma courts evaluate inheritances can help spouses protect their rights and prepare for what to expect in… Read More

What is Equitable Distribution and How Does it Work in a Tulsa Divorce?

Equitable Distribution

When spouses decide to divorce in Tulsa, one of the most important issues they must address is how their property will be divided. Oklahoma uses a legal system known as equitable distribution, which focuses on dividing marital assets fairly—but not necessarily equally. Understanding how equitable distribution works is important, because the court’s decision will determine what each spouse receives in the divorce and how their financial future is shaped moving forward. Understanding Equitable Distribution Under Oklahoma Law Equitable distribution is the legal process Oklahoma courts use to divide… Read More

What Happens to the Marital Home in an Oklahoma Divorce When Only One Spouse Is on the Deed?

Marital Home Deed

When a couple begins the divorce process in Oklahoma, one of the most important questions they face is what will happen to the marital home. This question becomes more complicated when the home is titled in the name of only one spouse. Many people assume that being the sole name on the deed guarantees full ownership after the divorce—but under Oklahoma law, that is not always the case. Understanding Property Rights in an Oklahoma Divorce Oklahoma follows the rule of equitable distribution, meaning the court divides marital property… 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