Understanding Custody in Oklahoma: A Guide for Parents
Child custody is one of the most emotionally charged and complex aspects of family law in Oklahoma. Whether you’re facing a divorce or seeking to establish custody after separation, understanding how Oklahoma courts determine custody can provide you with clarity and help you make informed decisions. In this blog post, we’ll break down the key aspects of custody in Oklahoma, including types of custody, how custody decisions are made, and how you can protect your rights as a parent.
Types of Custody in OklahomaIn Oklahoma, child custody is typically categorized into two main types: legal custody and physical custody. It’s important to understand the distinction between these two, as they each play a significant role in the child’s life.
Legal CustodyLegal custody refers to the right and responsibility to make important decisions about your child's upbringing. This includes decisions regarding education, healthcare, religion, and general well-being. Parents with legal custody are expected to be involved in making these decisions, even if the child lives primarily with one parent.

• Joint Legal Custody: In Oklahoma, courts generally prefer joint legal custody, which means both parents share decision-making authority.
• Sole Legal Custody: In cases where joint legal custody isn’t in the best interests of the child, the court may award sole legal custody to one parent.

Physical CustodyPhysical custody determines where the child will live and how much time they will spend with each parent. Parents may have equal or unequal physical custody arrangements depending on the circumstances.

• Joint Physical Custody: This is when the child spends significant time with both parents. It doesn’t necessarily mean an exact 50/50 split, but both parents are actively involved in the child's day-to-day life.
• Sole Physical Custody: If one parent is awarded sole physical custody, the child will live with them most of the time. The non-custodial parent typically has visitation rights or may receive a set amount of parenting time.

How Does the Court Decide Custody?In Oklahoma, like in many other states, the primary consideration in custody decisions is always the best interests of the child. The court will review several factors when making this determination:

1. The Child’s Wishes: If the child is old enough and mature enough to express a preference (usually around the age of 12 or older), the court may consider their wishes regarding custody.
2. Parental Ability to Provide for the Child: The court looks at each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment, emotional support, and financial resources to care for the child.
3. The Relationship Between the Child and Each Parent: The court will assess the bond the child has with each parent, including the involvement each parent has had in the child’s life up until this point.
4. History of Domestic Abuse or Substance Abuse: If there’s any history of domestic violence or substance abuse, this can heavily influence custody decisions. Courts will always prioritize the child’s safety and well-being.
5. The Child’s Age and Developmental Needs: The needs of the child, including age, physical and emotional development, and any special considerations like health issues, will be taken into account.
6. The Parent’s Cooperation with Each Other: Courts favor parents who are willing to work together and facilitate a cooperative parenting plan, even after separation or divorce.
7. Stability of the Home Environment: A stable home environment is crucial to a child’s well-being. The court will assess each parent’s ability to offer a secure, consistent home life.

Modifying Custody OrdersCustody orders aren’t set in stone. If circumstances change significantly after the initial custody determination, it is possible to seek a modification of the custody arrangement. A parent may request a modification if:

• There has been a significant change in the child’s needs or in the parent’s circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in employment, health issues, etc.).
• The existing custody arrangement is no longer in the child’s best interests.

To modify a custody order in Oklahoma, the parent seeking the change must show that there has been a substantial change in circumstances that justifies the modification. The court will then review the situation based on the best interests of the child.
Visitation and Parenting PlansIn Oklahoma, the court may issue a parenting plan as part of the custody agreement, detailing the time-sharing arrangement and responsibilities of both parents. Even if one parent has primary physical custody, the non-custodial parent will likely be granted visitation rights.
Visitation can be structured in various ways depending on the circumstances, such as:

• Regular Visitation: A set schedule where the non-custodial parent spends time with the child on a consistent basis.
• Supervised Visitation: If there are concerns about the child’s safety or well-being, the court may order that visits be supervised.
• Holiday and Vacation Schedules: Special provisions for spending time with the child during holidays or school breaks.

The Role of MediationBefore resorting to court, Oklahoma encourages parents to try mediation to resolve custody disputes. Mediation can help parents reach an agreement in a less adversarial setting, potentially leading to a more amicable arrangement that serves the best interests of the child. If mediation fails, the court will make a decision.
ConclusionNavigating custody issues can be challenging, but understanding how custody decisions are made in Oklahoma can help you take the right steps to protect your rights and ensure your child’s well-being. The court’s focus is always on the best interests of the child, so it's important to be prepared to demonstrate that you can provide a stable, supportive environment for your child.
If you're dealing with a custody issue, it’s highly advisable to consult with an experienced family law attorney. A skilled lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of custody law, advocate for your rights, and work toward a solution that’s in the best interests of your child.

We are pleased to announce that after a lengthy appellate process, the Oklahoma Court of Appeals has affirmed the trial court's decision in favor of our client in a contested eviction matter. The appellate court upheld the lower court's ruling, validating our client’s enforcement of lease terms and awarding late fees and other contractual charges as stipulated in the lease agreement.

This decision marks a significant victory for property owners seeking to enforce the terms of their leases and reinforces the importance of adhering to legally binding agreements. Our client pursued this action only after substantial and continued non-compliance by the tenant, and we are proud to have secured a fair and just outcome.
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We remain committed to advocating for our clients’ rights and ensuring that lawful agreements are upheld in accordance with Oklahoma law.

Understanding Civil Rights and 1983 Lawsuits: A Path to Justice for Victims of Government Abuse
Civil rights violations are a serious concern in any society that values fairness, equality, and justice. When government officials, such as police officers or public employees, overstep their bounds and violate an individual's rights, the Constitution provides a remedy through Section 1983 lawsuits. This legal action, grounded in the Civil Rights Act of 1871, empowers individuals to seek justice and hold public officials accountable for their misconduct.


What is a Section 1983 Lawsuit?A Section 1983 lawsuit derives its name from 42 U.S.C. § 1983. This statute allows individuals to sue government officials who have violated their constitutional rights, whether those violations occur at the federal, state, or local government level. The law is designed to provide a remedy when a person's civil rights are infringed upon by someone acting under the authority of the government.
In essence, Section 1983 allows plaintiffs to seek damages and other forms of relief when their rights are violated by government actors, including law enforcement officers, public officials, and government employees.

Common Constitutional Violations Under Section 1983Section 1983 lawsuits can be brought for violations of various constitutional rights. Some of the most common civil rights violations that form the basis of these claims include:

1. Excessive Force (Fourth Amendment): One of the most common Section 1983 claims involves allegations of excessive use of force by law enforcement officers during arrests, detentions, or interrogations. The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures, which includes the use of excessive force. A plaintiff may sue if they were subjected to force that was unreasonable or disproportionate to the situation.
2. False Arrest and Imprisonment (Fourth Amendment): Section 1983 is also used to challenge false arrests or false imprisonment by government officials. If law enforcement arrests an individual without probable cause or a valid warrant, it may constitute a violation of the Fourth Amendment.
3. First Amendment Retaliation: Under the First Amendment, individuals have the right to free speech, freedom of assembly, and the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances. If a government official retaliates against someone for exercising these rights—such as firing a public employee for criticizing a policy—it could lead to a Section 1983 claim.
4. Due Process Violations (Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments): The Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments guarantee that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law. If government officials deny an individual a fair hearing or fail to provide due process in legal proceedings, a Section 1983 lawsuit may be appropriate.
5. Equal Protection Violations (Fourteenth Amendment): The Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment ensures that no state shall deny any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. A Section 1983 claim may arise if government officials engage in discriminatory actions based on race, gender, religion, or other protected classes.

The Legal Process of Filing a Section 1983 LawsuitPursuing a Section 1983 lawsuit involves several key steps. While each case is unique, understanding the general process can help victims of civil rights violations and their attorneys navigate the system.
1. Establishing the ViolationThe first step in filing a Section 1983 lawsuit is determining whether a violation of constitutional rights has occurred. This requires reviewing the facts of the case and understanding the constitutional provisions at stake. For example, if a plaintiff claims that their rights were violated by excessive force, the attorney must evaluate whether the force used was objectively unreasonable given the circumstances.
2. Identifying the DefendantThe defendant in a Section 1983 lawsuit is typically a government official or employee who acted "under color of law," meaning they were using their authority as a government actor when the violation occurred. This can include police officers, public school officials, or even city government employees. The defendant's conduct must have been tied to their official role for the lawsuit to be viable.
3. Filing the ComplaintThe attorney will file a complaint with the appropriate court, outlining the facts of the case, the constitutional violations, and the legal basis for the claim. The complaint must be filed within the statute of limitations, which varies depending on the type of violation and jurisdiction. In many instances, the statute of limitations for a Section 1983 claim is two years from the date of the alleged violation.
4. Discovery ProcessOnce the lawsuit is filed, both parties will engage in the discovery process, during which they exchange evidence and information. This phase can involve depositions, document production, and interrogatories. Discovery is crucial for gathering the evidence needed to support the plaintiff's case and establish that the government official acted unlawfully.
5. Trial or SettlementThe case may either proceed to trial or be settled out of court. In a trial, the plaintiff must prove that the government official violated their constitutional rights. If the jury finds in favor of the plaintiff, they may award damages or other forms of relief, such as injunctive relief to prevent future violations. Many Section 1983 cases, however, settle before reaching trial, as both parties seek to avoid the time and expense of litigation.

The Importance of Section 1983 LawsuitsSection 1983 lawsuits serve a vital role in our legal system. They provide an avenue for individuals to hold government officials accountable for unconstitutional actions and help deter future misconduct. These lawsuits reinforce the principles of accountability and justice that are central to a democratic society.
For victims of civil rights violations, pursuing a Section 1983 claim can be a way to seek compensation for the harm they have endured, and to bring attention to systemic issues that may affect other individuals. For attorneys, these cases represent an opportunity to champion justice, challenge abuse of power, and protect the rights of the most vulnerable members of society.

ConclusionCivil rights and Section 1983 lawsuits play a crucial role in protecting individual liberties against government misconduct. While the process can be complex and challenging, it offers a pathway to justice for those whose constitutional rights have been violated. Whether you're a victim of civil rights abuse or a lawyer representing a client in such a case, understanding the ins and outs of Section 1983 lawsuits is essential for navigating this important area of law.
If you have been the victim of a civil rights violation, or if you are a legal professional seeking to pursue a Section 1983 lawsuit, consider consulting with an experienced attorney to explore your options and ensure that justice is served.

Understanding Alimony in Oklahoma: What You Need to Know
When a marriage ends, there are often complex financial matters to address—one of which is alimony. Also referred to as spousal support or maintenance, alimony can be a crucial part of divorce proceedings. If you're going through a divorce in Oklahoma, understanding the rules and considerations surrounding alimony is essential.
As a lawyer in Oklahoma, I want to provide you with clear and reliable information about alimony so that you can navigate this part of the process with confidence.
What is Alimony?Alimony is a financial obligation that one spouse may be required to pay to the other after a divorce. The goal of alimony is to provide financial support to the lower-earning spouse, helping them maintain a standard of living that is somewhat similar to what they experienced during the marriage. It can be awarded on a temporary, rehabilitative, or permanent basis, depending on the circumstances of the case.
In Oklahoma, alimony is not automatically granted. The court will review several factors to determine whether alimony is appropriate and, if so, how much and for how long it should be paid.
Factors the Court Considers in OklahomaOklahoma law provides a list of factors that the court considers when deciding whether to award alimony. These factors include:

1. The Standard of Living During the Marriage: The court will look at the lifestyle the couple maintained during the marriage and attempt to ensure that the lower-earning spouse can live reasonably close to that same standard after the divorce.
   
2. The Financial Resources of Both Parties: This includes the income and property each spouse has, as well as their ability to support themselves financially. If one spouse is significantly wealthier or has more earning potential, they may be required to pay alimony.
   
3. Duration of the Marriage: The longer the marriage, the more likely it is that alimony may be awarded. In long-term marriages, the court may be more inclined to grant permanent alimony if one spouse is unable to support themselves at the same level they were accustomed to.
   
4. The Age and Health of Both Spouses: If one spouse is older or in poor health, they may be awarded alimony if they are unable to work and support themselves financially.
   
5. The Earning Capacity of Each Spouse: The court will assess each spouse’s ability to earn a living, which may include their education, work history, and employability.
   
6. The Contributions of Both Spouses to the Marriage: This includes both financial and non-financial contributions, such as homemaking, child-rearing, and supporting the other spouse's career or education.
   
7. The Parties’ Needs and Obligations: If one spouse has a significant need for support and the other has the ability to provide it, alimony may be awarded.
   
8. Any Other Relevant Factors: The court may also consider any other factors that seem pertinent to the case.
   

Types of Alimony in OklahomaOklahoma recognizes several types of alimony, depending on the circumstances of the divorce:

• Temporary Alimony: This is awarded during the divorce proceedings and is meant to provide support until the divorce is finalized.
  
• Rehabilitative Alimony: This type of alimony is designed to help the recipient spouse become self-sufficient by providing financial support while they pursue education or training to improve their earning capacity.
  
• Permanent Alimony: This is granted in long-term marriages when one spouse is unable to financially support themselves due to age, illness, or other factors. It can continue indefinitely or until there is a change in circumstances.
  

How is Alimony Calculated?Unlike child support, there is no specific formula for calculating alimony in Oklahoma. The judge has wide discretion in determining the amount and duration of alimony based on the factors listed above. Each case is unique, and the amount awarded will depend on the specifics of the situation.
In some cases, the court may also order a lump-sum payment instead of ongoing monthly payments.
Modifying Alimony in OklahomaAlimony can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. For example, if the paying spouse loses their job or the recipient spouse remarries, the court may adjust the amount of alimony. However, to modify alimony, one party must file a motion with the court and demonstrate the change in circumstances.
Terminating AlimonyAlimony payments will generally terminate upon the remarriage of the recipient spouse or the death of either spouse. However, if the paying spouse is court-ordered to pay alimony for a specific duration, the payments may continue as long as the recipient spouse has not remarried or passed away.
Final ThoughtsAlimony can be one of the more complicated aspects of a divorce, and it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to spousal support. Whether you are seeking alimony or are required to pay it, it’s crucial to work with a knowledgeable family law attorney to navigate the process effectively.
If you have questions about alimony or need legal guidance regarding your divorce in Oklahoma, don’t hesitate to reach out. As an experienced lawyer, I am here to help you understand your options and advocate for your interests.

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If you’re considering divorce or need assistance with alimony matters, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you through this challenging process with the expertise and care you deserve.

Wishing you a Happy New Year in 2025!