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Tulsa Immigration Attorney Rivas’ Feats Net Spotlight

Lorena Rivas just might have become the most publicized attorney in Tulsa County. The acclaimed Tulsa immigration attorney was the subject of not just one but two profile pieces on consecutive days — March 26 and March 27 – by the Tulsa Business & Legal News.

“It was a little surprising and a little flattering,” Rivas said. “I spoke with one of the reporters a couple of weeks ago, so I knew he was working on something and then I heard from the other reporter and knew she also was working on a story.  I thought they both did a good job.”

Tulsa immigration attorney

Tulsa Immigration Attorney to Receive Prestigious Fern Holland Award

Rivas was spotlighted by Sharon Bishop-Baldwin in Tuesday’s TB&LN for being named the 2018 Fern Holland Award Winner.

Presented by the TU College of Law’s Women’s Law Caucus, the honor is given to a lawyer who advocates for human rights or the empowerment of women which Rivas has valiantly done since graduating TU College of Law in 2012. Rivas will be presented with the award during a banquet Thursday at The Pearl District Building.

Holland attended TU Law and was a practicing Tulsa attorney before joining the Peace Corps and then working for the Coalition Provisional Authority during the Iraq Conflict to fight for women’s rights and to help Iraqis establish a democratic government.

Described as a “doer not a doubter,” Holland’s efforts and legacy are well documented. She became the first American civilian to be killed in the Iraq Conflict when the Bluejacket native and 2004 Oklahoman of the Year was tragically shot by Iraqi insurgents dressed as Iraqi police on March 9,2004.

Rivas has this to say about Holland in the article:

“She was an amazing individual. She was willing to lose her life while fighting for a very worthy cause and the voiceless. I hope that when I’m gone, people will look at my life and think something similar: ‘She was willing to tell the stories of the voiceless and fight for them.’ In my case, it’s immigrants.”

The article examined Rivas’ immigration law background, which the highly-regarded Tulsa immigration attorney so eloquently explained to a captivated crowd this past fall at the University of Central Oklahoma.

The article also discussed some of the challenges Rivas faces in today’s immigration law climate, yet that she continues to have hope that immigrants will remain resilient.

“… I do see good things on the horizon for immigrants in the U.S., and this is all because I believe in the power of immigrants. The current political climate has not only stirred and awakened hateful voices, but it also has stirred and awakened the hopeful and persistent voices of everyday immigrant-rights activists.

“This country was founded by revolutionists and immigrants. They have shown time and time again they will persist and win.”

Tulsa immigration attorney

Leading Tulsa Media Outlet Also Reports on Rivas’ Visit to Nation’s Capital

The Tulsa Business & Legal News also sent longtime legal reporter Ralph Schaefer out to report on Rivas’ recent trip to Washington D.C. where she attended the Hispanic National Bar Association 2018 Advocacy Day and met with legislators to advocate for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals).

The article highlighted Rivas’ meeting with Oklahoma Rep. Steve Russell, who is supportive of the Dreamers, and of a growing frustration that a long-term solution and path toward citizenship may not be available in the foreseeable future.

Said Rivas:

“Even though some congressional members want a more permanent solution, I think they will have to give into a temporary fix until after the mid-term election this year and after the next presidential election.

“… “I tell clients to hold on to the hope for a solution and talk to their congressman/ I also tell them to tell people who are active and willing to express their voices that they need help. I also tell them that as long as they don’t get into serious problems, don’t get into bad situations and don’t get a criminal arrest, they should be OK.”

Tulsa immigration attorney

Respected Tulsa Immigration Attorney One of Several Fry & Elder Attorneys to Garner Media Attention

That Rivas was the primary subject of back-to-back articles by an Oklahoma media outlet is not all that surprising.

Fry & Elder and its decorated team of attorneys are actually quite used to the spotlight.

All total, Fry & Elder and the firm’s attorneys have been profiled a staggering 35 times since 2014, including five times this year so far.

Schaefer, a 2017 Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame inductee, has made his way to the Fry & Elder offices on numerous occasions, as have several other highly-regarded Oklahoma journalists and media outlets.

“We really appreciate all that they do for the Tulsa legal community,” Rivas said. “They don’t really have the easiest job, but they work hard and do a good job keeping the public informed.”

Below are the links to the 35 articles written about Fry & Elder.

Prestigious Tulsa Law Firm No Stranger to Awards, Accolades

The 2018 Fern Holland Award is just the most recent honor for the decorated Tulsa immigration attorney. In 2016, Rivas was also recognized by Tulsa Business & Legal News as being one of the city’s most accomplished professional women with their annual Women of Distinction Awards.

The leading Tulsa immigration attorney is one of several Fry & Elder attorneys to singled out for their significant legal contributions, which has helped the firm be named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firm’s List every year since 2014. The elite Oklahoma law firm’s attorneys include the following:

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with Rivas or another one of the firm’s experienced trial lawyers.

Elite Tulsa Law Firm Has Always Fought For Wrongfully Accused

As an elite Tulsa law firm with roots dating back to 1932 when C. Lawrence Elder began trying cases in Oklahoma courtrooms, Fry & Elder has achieved no shortage of legal feats.

Elite Tulsa Law Firm

The nationally-acclaimed firm’s trial lawyers have donned multiple legal hats, taken on many leadership positions and received numerous honors over the past 86 years. Fry & Elder’s attorneys actively practice Oklahoma family law, immigration law, criminal law and personal injury law cases.

One legal role no Fry & Elder trial lawyer, however, has played in the elite Tulsa law firm’s illustrious history has been that of a prosecutor.

“That is a point of pride for us, especially in criminal defense work” Fry & Elder trial lawyer Aaron Bundy said. “The entire careers of every lawyer working here at Fry & Elder have been dedicated to helping individuals, including fighting for the wrongfully accused.”

Bundy and fellow Fry & Elder trial lawyer and partner M. Shane Henry focus much of their respective practice areas on criminal defense work, including protective orders, federal criminal defense, bullying and DUI.

“I think with all of the technology and media coverage in place today, it is now easier than ever before for the court of public opinion to presume the accused is guilty and not innocent,” Bundy said. “But the judicial system has and will continue to operate under the presumption that one is innocent until proven guilty.”

Elite Tulsa Law Firm

Fighting for the Wrongfully Accused Often Comes with Prosecutor Bias

In 2017, Bundy and Henry traveled to New Orleans, Louisiana for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers® 2017 Midwinter Meeting & Seminar where the two AV-Rated attorneys listened in as legendary criminal defense mastermind Barry Scheck presented.

Perhaps no other attorney is more well-versed in advocating for the wrongfully accused than Scheck. He co-founded the Innocence Project which has exonerated innocent, yet wrongfully convicted individuals like Michael Morton.  

Morton was released from prison in 2011 after serving nearly 25 years in prison after he was wrongfully convicted of his wife’s murder.

Morton publicly unveiled his remarkable and tragic story in his book “Getting Life: An Innocent Man’s 25-Year Journey from Prison to Peace” which also documented the unethical work of prosecuting attorney Ken Anderson.

Anderson was arrested and jailed after a court of inquiry found that the Morton’s former prosecutor had failed to “provide defense lawyers with exculpatory evidence indicating that another man might have killed Morton’s wife, including information that his 3-year-old son witnessed the murder and said his dad was not home at the time.”

Unfortunately, Anderson’s tale is not the only example of prosecutor immorality. As The Hill reported in a 2017 article:

“Traditionally, prosecutors are seen as measuring success in terms of convictions, plea bargains or the amount of punishment exacted.”

Titled “Criminal justice reform starts with the prosecutor,” the piece discussed how some 24 prosecutors from across the country met to discuss changes to their roles in the criminal justice system.

Adam Foss is an assistant district attorney in Suffolk County, Massachusetts had this to say: “Prosecutors are the most powerful actors in the criminal justice system. Our power is virtually boundless.”

When discussing the mindset of many prosecuting attorneys, Foss added this insight:

“For the most part, prosecutors step on the job with little appreciation of the impact of our decisions, regardless of our intent. Prosecutors aren’t really incentivized to be creative. … We stick to an outdated method that is counterproductive to achieving the goal that we all want, which is safer communities.”

Elite Tulsa Law Firm Attorneys Who Will Fight for You

If you are investigated or charged with a crime, you will need to contact an experienced criminal law defense attorney. Should you decide to contact Fry & Elder, you can have the peace of mind that no lawyer at the firm has ever worked on behalf of the government to accuse people of crimes

Furthermore, the elite Tulsa law firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firm’s List every year since 2014. The renowned law firm’s lineup of attorneys includes the following:

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa today to set up a personal consultation with a proven trial lawyer who will aggressively fight for you in and out of the courtroom.

Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer Fry Holds Unique Seminar

As an experienced Tulsa divorce lawyer with 50 years’ experience, Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr., has no shortage of legal perspective.

That said, the accomplished and experienced Tulsa divorce lawyer continues to embrace and seek out new opportunities to consult with individuals about the dynamics of family law.

Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer

Fry’s newest endeavor landed him in his church of over 50 years – First United Methodist Church – for a three-part seminar on the true cost of divorce titled “Put Me Out of Business.”

The concept for the series, which ran Jan. 11, 18 and 25 at FUMC’s The Culture Lab, stemmed from the first part of Fry’s decades-old philosophy on divorce which focuses on exploring mediation and resolution first.

Fry collaborated with former counselor Hal McBride on the seminar content, and the three-part “Put Me Out of Business” series was the subject of a feature story by Ralph Schaefer in the Feb. 22 edition of the Tulsa Business & Legal News.

“There are many people who might feel like that is hot air coming from a family law attorney, but I ask every prospective client who comes to my office if they have explored all options of resolution first,” Fry said. “A lot of people who make it to my desk have not completely factored in all that divorce entails.  I want them to be aware of what is at stake not just financially but also emotionally.”

Unconventional Approach Nothing New for Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer

That Fry chose to conduct a three-part seminar series seeking to educate young adults and college-age youths on the trials and tribulations of divorce may, on the surface, seem odd. But upon further review of Fry’s storied legal career, it really is not that out of character.

Fry has been a trailblazer of sorts in Oklahoma family law throughout his career. He helped pioneer the efforts of fathers being granted child custody when the “norm” was for the mother to typically gain custody of the child. He was then proactive in embracing and advancing the changes in child support guidelines in the 1980s, presenting CLE seminars on the changes to the Tulsa County Bar Association.

Still, even by his standards, his recent “Put Me Out of Business” seminar series was a little unconventional.

“My firm and myself have helped a lot of people get out of some very toxic relationships and bad situations over the years so I will always believe in the services and help that we are able to provide,” Fry said. “We do a lot of very good work that is needed. But I also want to see relationships last and probably even more so today because of where I am at in life and at this stage of my career. There is an enduring legacy that comes with divorce. You don’t have to make it to my desk.”

Part 1 of the series focused on the legal and financial side of divorce, as well as the emotional toll divorce can have on someone. Part 2 focused on how to build and have a lasting relationship. And Part 3 was a roundtable in which two married couples of 20+ and 50+ years answered questions about their respective marriages.

“I think it really went well, especially considering it was the first time we have held a seminar like this,” said FUMC College and Youth Adult Minister Rebekah Bled. “It was really good for some of our church’s younger members to be exposed to these discussions. The perspective and wisdom provided by Mr. Fry and others is invaluable.  We had one older couple come in to film one of the seminars for their daughter. That really surprised me.”

Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer

Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer at Home at First United Methodist Church

As comfortable as Fry is inside a courtroom, he is even more at home at his church – specifically with his Sunday school class, the Builder’s Class.

“They’re just wonderful people, who have taught me a lot and have helped me get through a lot over the years,” said Fry, who has been with the class for over 40 years. “We are there for each other through the good and the bad. We are each other’s support system.”

In addition to being actively involved in the Builder’s Class, Fry has served as an usher for a number of years and has volunteered in many other capacities for the church.

When Bled came calling for some of the church’s older and more experienced members from a variety of professions to take part in a series of adulting classes for FUMC’s college and youth members, the minister said Fry did not hesitate to commit.

“He told me he had been signing a volunteer sheet for a number of years, but no one ever called him,” Bled said. “He was excited, and I was excited to have him on board.”

It later donned on Bled that she never asked Fry what he did for a living. After the two talked for a bit, she finally got around to asking Fry what line of work he was in. Needless to say, upon learning that Fry was an experienced Tulsa divorce lawyer of 50 years, Bled was a little taken aback.

“I was shocked,” Bled said. “I think he just kind of thought everyone knew what he did, but I didn’t. When he told me, I couldn’t help but think how incredible it is for him to be taking a stand like this when his business is the opposite. Just really impactful to say the least.”

While Fry won’t be leaving his Fry & Elder Maple Ridge office at 1616 S. Main Street anytime soon, he is also not planning to vacate his newfound role at FUMC. Fry said he plans on holding another seminar series this spring at FUMC’s The Culture Lab.

“It’s going to be even better,” Fry said. “I got some really good ideas and learned a lot this first time around. I think the older you get the more some of the assumptions you once held onto fall by the wayside. I enjoy working with young people and am excited to be able to give back to the church in this capacity.”

Barteaux Reappointed As Cherokee Nation District Judge

The Honorable T. Luke Barteaux has been reappointed.

Barteaux, who made Fry & Elder history on May 15, 2017 when he became the firm’s first attorney to be sworn in as judge, was reappointed as a Cherokee Nation District Judge on February 12, 2018 by the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council. His new term will continue until February of 2022.

Cherokee Nation District Judge

“I feel deeply honored to be reappointed,” Barteaux said. “This is a position that is very important to me and one which comes with a lot of responsibility. To be able to continue to serve the Cherokee Nation in this capacity really is quite an honor and one that I hold very dearly.”

Cherokee Nation Tribal Council Speaker Joe Byrd stated in a release that the court has full confidence in Barteaux and that he will only continue to flourish in the position.

“I believe Judge Luke Barteaux has represented the Cherokee Nation well since he took an oath last year to serve the tribe’s court system. Over the next four years as he becomes accustomed to his position, I expect he’ll continue to bring a level of sophistication to our courts.”

Barteaux’s wife Sarah held the Bible when he was initially sworn in as judge in 2017. This time around, it was Barteaux’s mother Lisa who held the Bible as Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Chief Justice John Garrett administered the oath to the Cherokee Nation District Judge.

“They’re the two most important women in my life,” Barteaux said. “I feel very fortunate to be able to include them in the oath of office ceremony.”

Oklahoma law firm

With Fry & Elder since 2011, Barteaux has distinguished himself as an elite Oklahoma family law attorney whose practice areas include divorce/dissolution of marriage, family law litigation, child custody and visitation, modifications, child support, alimony, guardianships, adoptions, collaborative divorce, legal separation, juvenile law, and mediation.

He has been named to Super Lawyers® Rising Stars every year since 2015 and served as the Oklahoma Bar Association Family Law Section Chair in 2016.

“Luke has done a phenomenal job throughout his career as a trial lawyer,” Fry & Elder partner M. Shane Henry said. “He is highly regarded and has taken on a number of leadership positions with the Oklahoma Bar Association. It is an honor to work alongside of him.

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with Barteaux.

Oklahoma Alimony Support No Longer a Tax Deduction in 2019

Changes to Oklahoma alimony support are on the horizon.

Oklahoma alimony support

Under the recently passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act signed into law by President Donald Trump, alimony (also known at spousal support) will no longer be deductible by the payor and count as income by the recipient. The provisions will not affect divorce decrees and separation agreements entered before Dec. 31, 2018, but those signed after would be impacted.

The Oklahoma alimony support lawyers of Fry & Elder are well aware that ending the 76-year old deduction could drastically impact many divorce settlement negotiations and agreements and are taking a proactive approach in preparing for the imminent changes set to come to Oklahoma alimony support.

“The change in tax treatment will have obvious effects on settlement agreements, as the tax deduction is often an important consideration when crafting a settlement agreement that includes support alimony,” local attorney Amy Page said in an email directed to Fry & Elder attorneys. “We are aware of these effects and are and will continue to be prepared to educate our clients about them as well.”

Oklahoma Alimony Support Defined

Alimony in Oklahoma and most other states is financial support paid by one spouse to another after divorce. Oklahoma alimony terms can be agreed upon by the parties involved or a judge can decide. Spousal support payments typically come in monthly installments but also can be paid in one large lump sum.

Unlike child support, there is no set formula to determine spousal support in Oklahoma. There also is no set time frame on how long a spouse can expect to pay or receive alimony. When determining the amount of spousal support to be paid, the following components often apply:

  • The length of the marriage
  • The health and age of each spouse
  • The mode of living to which each spouse has become accustomed during the marriage
  • Evidence of a spouse’s own income-producing capacity and the time necessary to make the transition for self-support
  • Demonstrated need during the post-matrimonial economic readjustment period
  • The parties’ station in life
  • The earning ability and education of each spouse
  • The parties’ physical condition and financial means

The Potential Impact of the Tax Provisions to Oklahoma Alimony Support

As Fry & Elder’s teams of attorneys alluded to, changes to the tax treatment of spousal support could be far reaching, particularly at the negotiation table where the ability to use alimony deduction was often a powerful bargaining chip.

With only one year remaining for alimony to be claimed as a deduction, it has been reported that some family law attorneys are advising couples considering divorce to file this year – before the deduction is eliminated.

Politico quoted former American Bar Association Family Law Section Chair Mary Vidas as saying: “Now’s not the time to wait. If you’re going to get a divorce, get it now.”

The reasoning behind Vidas’ recommendation may stem from the fact that with alimony being wiped out as a deduction, more disputes could emerge between the two parties and what they deem as a fair number for spousal support.

“The deduction substantially reduces the cost of alimony payments – for people in the highest income-tax bracket, it means every dollar they spend to support a former spouse really costs them a little more than 60 cents.”

Added Pittsburgh family law attorney Brian Vertz:

“The repeal reduces the bargaining power of vulnerable spouses, mostly women, in achieving financial stability after a divorce.”

Though alimony was historically awarded to the wife, this is not the case anymore. Gender is now irrelevant when determining Oklahoma alimony support, meaning either the husband or wife can receive alimony.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?

Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr.’s divorce philosophy to “always seek mediation and resolution first, but when a compromise can’t be made to shoot all the bullets you have and throw the empty gun at them” has long been a hallmark of the firm. That said, Fry & Elder has remained proactive in staying up to date with Oklahoma family law practices, including spousal support.

The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014 and Is comprised of an experienced team of family law attorneys which include:

Should you have any additional questions in regards to Oklahoma alimony support or any other family law matter, we encourage you to contact Fry & Elder Tulsa today to set up a personal consultation with a proven family law attorney.

Accomplished Tulsa Divorce Attorney Fry Embraces 50th Year

Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. found himself in an awkward situation last summer in Ireland. Turns out, driving on the opposite side of the road requires a bit of getting used to – not that the acclaimed Tulsa divorce attorney had difficulty adjusting to the other side of the road.

No, Fry did just fine. He successfully navigated his way along the picturesque country’s Eastern coast and through the Ring of Kerry. Successful navigation, though, has been a hallmark of Fry’s legal career since its inception in 1968.

Tulsa divorce attorney Robert G "Hap" Fry Jr.

Accomplished Tulsa Divorce Attorney Fry Still Going Strong at 50

The elite Tulsa divorce and child custody attorney recently celebrated a birthday on Dec. 19 to signify the beginning of his 50th year practicing law.

When it comes to Oklahoma family law, there is not much Fry has not achieved. He is one of only 19 attorneys in the state to be a Fellow of the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, is an eight-time Best Lawyers® selection and is an 11-time Super Lawyers honoree.

Fry also was named the Best Lawyers® Lawyer of the Year for Family Law in Oklahoma 2016 and this past summer – shortly before his drive along the Irish coastline – joined the likes of John Wayne, Brad Pitt and David Letterman as a Significant Sig Award winner.

While there might not be much left for him to achieve professionally, Fry embarks on his 50th year still going strong and anticipating another busy and very productive year.

“I feel great,” Fry said. “I understand that I might not have the same energy I had 20 years ago, but I feel very good and I am a whole lot wiser at this stage of my career. I don’t think many people enter their respective profession thinking they will work in it for 50 years, and I didn’t either. I realize I am extremely fortunate to be in this position. Practicing law is something I continue to find very rewarding and challenging each day.

“Our firm has grown so much these past couple of years which has been a lot of fun to be a part of and observe. We’ve really got an incredible staff together that’s just been a joy to work with and has kept me feeling young and energetic. I am very blessed and there is much to look forward to here at Fry & Elder.”

Tulsa divorce attorney Robert G "Hap" Fry Jr. and Badger

Fry & Elder, Fry Jr. Continue to Grow

As the accomplished Tulsa divorce attorney alluded to, Fry & Elder has experienced immense growth in the past two years. The renowned Oklahoma law firm’s accomplished team of attorneys has increased from 5 to its current roster of 12 since 2015. The firm also offers immigration law, criminal defense and personal injury law services to compliment its highly-regarded family law services.

Fry & Elder has been named to the prestigious U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014, and the firm’s lineup of trial lawyers includes the following:

Though the firm has grown exponentially the past few years, Fry & Elder’s trial lawyers continue to seek out Fry for wisdom and perspective.

“He’s a legend,” said Fry & Elder partner M. Shane Henry, who joined Fry in Best Lawyers this year. “To have the longevity that he has had is remarkable, but even more remarkable is the fact that he has operated at such a high level throughout his career. It really is incredible. Our attorneys and myself have learned and continue to learn so much from him.”

Premier Tulsa Divorce Lawyer Reflects on Changes in Family Law

As a high-level practicing Tulsa divorce lawyer for 50 years, there is not much Fry has not seen or encountered in the realm of family law. He was proactive in embracing and advancing the changes in child support guidelines in the 1980s, presenting CLE seminars on the changes to the Tulsa County Bar Association.

“The guidelines were needed,” Fry said. “Child support comes before car payments, mortgages and other expenses.”

Fry also championed the efforts of fathers being granted child custody when the “norm” was for the mother to typically gain custody of the child.

Through it all, Fry has been a trailblazer of sorts in Oklahoma family law, but he has always been guided by two constants which he learned while clerking for Judge Robert D. Simms in 1966 and 1967 and he conveyed in a 2016 article by the Tulsa Business & Legal News. The first is to “always be prepared.”

The second:

“I deal with other lawyers every day and tell them what I am going to do,” Fry said. “I deal in trust and letters follow on the more complicated cases. Your word is your bond.”

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with Fry or one of the firm’s many other accomplished Tulsa divorce attorneys.

Experienced Tulsa DUI Defense Lawyers Provide Sound Advice

While the acclaimed Oklahoma law firm of Fry & Elder has been primarily known for its excellence in family law the past 50 years, the firm, which has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List each of the past five years, also provides exceptional criminal defense for a variety of criminal matters including DUI (driving under the influence).

Tulsa DUI defense lawyers

It’s no secret to anyone that DUI’s are a big deal. Driving under the influence is considered a crime in every state and DUI charges are handled in criminal court. Depending on the circumstances, Oklahoma DUI convictions can lead to everything from a license suspension to jail or prison time. Those punishments are even more compounded by the financial loss and psychological impact that a DUI conviction can impose on someone.

The Tulsa DUI defense lawyers at Fry & Elder encourage everyone to make safe decisions this holiday season and avoiding getting behind the wheel if you have had too much to drink. Research indicates, however, that there is an increase in DUI stops on or around New Year’s.

What Does the Research Indicate?

According to a report by Scram® Systems, 40 percent of all highway deaths that occur during the holiday season (Blackout Wednesday through January 2) are caused by drunk drivers. The Oklahoman recently reported that nearly 800 people died across the nation in December of 2016 as a result of “drunk-driving related crashes” and that “nearly 30 percent of those who died in traffic crashes were in incidents involving a driver with a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher. In Oklahoma that percentage was 50 percent.”

The Oklahoma City media outlet also indicated that law-enforcement officials throughout the state “will work around the clock to keep vehicle drivers and passengers safe as they search for drunk drivers.”

Fry & Elder’s Tulsa DUI defense lawyers, again, want you to utilize sound judgement this holiday season, but in the unfortunate event that you do get stopped for DUI, it is imperative that you seek consultation with an experienced team of Tulsa DUI defense lawyers.

Tulsa DUI defense lawyers

Courtesy of Scram Systems

Why Consult with an Accomplished Team of Tulsa DUI Defense Lawyers?

DUI law is complicated, meaning that it is difficult for someone with little to no experience in handling DUI cases to properly assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case. The fact of the matter is, there is too much on the line to not consult with an attorney experienced in handling DUI cases.

While you can choose to be represented by a public defender, hiring a private attorney typically has more advantages. These include:

  • Additional one-on-one consultation time
  • A greater chance for desired results or outcome
  • Less time in court

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?

Fry & Elder not only has a team of skilled Tulsa DUI defense lawyers, the firm provides after-hours special emergency legal assistance. Its decorated lineup of trial lawyers include:

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with a distinguished Oklahoma trial lawyer.

Reasons To Request An Oklahoma Child Custody Modification

Sometimes it takes the holiday season for a parent to realize that their current child custody agreement is no longer working in their favor or in the best interest of the child. Fry & Elder’s team of accomplished Oklahoma family law attorneys understand the importance, sensitivity and urgency in which child custody modifications need to be addressed. Below are four reasons why a parent should request an Oklahoma child custody modification.

Oklahoma child custody modification

REASON 1: When the Present Oklahoma Child Custody Agreement is not in the Best Interest of Your Child

Because Oklahoma is one of many states that applies the “best interest of the child” standard when determining visitation and child custody issues, this needs to be at the forefront of a parent’s request for an Oklahoma child custody modification.

A judge will typically not consider a child custody modification if the present agreement appears to be working for both parties involved and meeting the best interests of the child. A parent wishing to make a modification would need to show that the other party is not meeting the child’s best interest standard through questioning the parenting ability and consistency of the other parent.

REASON 2: If You Believe Your Child is in Danger

If there are legitimate reasons why you believe your child is in danger or is not safe, the courts will look very closely at a child custody modification. Examples of your child being in an unsafe environment might be constituted by acts of domestic violence, physical or psychological abuse and neglect.

REASON 3: When the Agreed Upon Visitation Schedule is Repeatedly Violated by Your Ex

The courts are likely to consider an Oklahoma child custody modification when a parent is not following the agreed upon parenting plan and not cooperating with the visitation schedule. Lack of communication and respect are often at the core of these violations taking place. The parent looking for a modification would want to document instances and examples of these violations.

REASON 4: When a Parent is Considering Relocation

Oklahoma courts typically do no want to remove a child from his or her established environment and routine. When a party is considering relocation, and moving the child out of state or to a distant location, a judge will want to look into a parent’s motivation for relocating, if the parents have communicated about a solution to modify the visitation schedule and whether a child’s life would be interrupted by a move or modification.

Other Things to Consider in Regards to an Oklahoma Child Custody Modification

For a modification to be strongly considered, a parent would need to show that a child’s best interests are not being met under the current agreement. The parent would need to prove that there is or has been a change in conduct in which the child’s best interest would be better served with a modification.

Oklahoma City child custody modification

Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

Whether you are inquiring about an Oklahoma child custody modification or another family law, criminal law or immigration law issue, Fry & Elder has the experience and team in place to help you successfully navigate through your legal issue. The firm’s talented lineup of the attorneys has helped the Fry & Elder be named to the prestigious U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List each of the past five years and includes the following trial lawyers:

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with a distinguished and accomplished Oklahoma trial lawyer.

Fry & Elder Trial Lawyer Katie Egan Gives Back To The Community

For many, the holiday season signifies a time of giving. Whether that means volunteering at a shelter, donating food and clothes or just spending additional time with a friend or family member, it is important to understand the importance of giving back.

Fry & Elder trial lawyer Katie Egan

Fry & Elder trial lawyer Katie Egan recognizes the importance of giving back and, for the second year in a row, the accomplished Tulsa family law attorney served as the Chair for the annual Champagne and Chocolate Gala. Sponsored by Living Arts, the event was staged November 18 and is the organization’s major yearly fundraiser with all proceeds going to support the local arts.

“It’s a great event and one that is highly anticipated by many in the Tulsa arts’ community,” Egan said. “The turnout was bigger than last year, and we continue to improve the gala each year. We were able to showcase talented local artists and raise money for the arts education. It’s a wonderful event to be a part of, and I am very grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside so many talented and dedicated people.”

As Egan said, the event was well attended and was well publicized by the Oklahoma media. Tulsa CBS affiliate KOTV Channel 6 aired a segment previewing the event which spotlighted Egan and Laura Echols.

The event was held in the Tulsa Arts District and featured the work of several Tulsa artists, including Chris Mantle, who is well known for his paintings of Buffalos.

“We have so many talented and dedicated artists in Tulsa,” Egan said. “It is important that we promote their work and the arts as well.”

Egan’s legal practice at Fry & Elder is focused on family law and criminal law issues. She became the first female trial lawyer at Fry & Elder when she joined the prestigious Oklahoma law firm in 2015 and is also licensed to practice in Connecticut and New York.

Egan participated and graduated from the 4th Annual OBA FLS TAI this past August and attended an advanced child custody seminar – AAML / AFCC Conference – in San Diego in September.

Fry & Elder trial lawyer Katie Egan

Not the Only Fry & Elder Trial Lawyer Giving Back

Egan’s work as the Champagne and Chocolate Gala Chair has been exemplary, but she is far from the only accomplished Fry & Elder trial lawyer giving back to the community.

Fry & Elder’s Lorena Rivas has coached the Union Alternative High School mock trial team for a number of years and was featured in the October issue of Tulsa Lawyer Magazine. Fry & Elder partner M. Shane Henry has also been involved with the team.

Fellow Fry & Elder immigration attorney Ruth Calvillo spoke to the University of Tulsa College of Law’s incoming class of law students in August and stressed the importance of giving back to the community.

Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

Whether you are facing a family law, criminal law, immigration law or personal injury matter, Fry & Elder has a decorated team of attorneys in place to help you navigate through the legal process.

Fry & Elder attorneys include:

The elite Oklahoma law firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List each of the past five years. Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with a distinguished and accomplished Oklahoma trial lawyer.

How To Successfully Navigate Through A Holiday Divorce

Contrary to popular belief, the holidays aren’t the “most wonderful time of the year” for everyone. While Thanksgiving, Hanukkah Christmas and New Year’s serve as rallying points and reasons for many families and friends to celebrate, for those going through a holiday divorce, the holidays might not be embraced with the same delight as they previously were. Feelings of depression, anger, anxiety and regret may set in or intensify during the holiday season.

It’s understandable.

Holiday divorce

Fry & Elder’s accomplished and decorated team of Tulsa divorce lawyers realize how difficult going through a holiday divorce can be for many people.  The holidays are stressful enough for many without having to go through a divorce.

Though there is no magical formula to transform oneself into the life of the holiday party, there are numerous coping mechanisms one can incorporate to better navigate through the holiday season and a holiday divorce.

TIP 1: Put the Focus on Others

Whether you are going through a divorce, grieving the loss of someone close to you or are dealing with a challenging personal matter, putting the focus on others is always a good policy to implement especially if you have children. Even if you don’t think you are capable of achieving this type of attitude at the present time, you very well could surprise yourself and any attempt to do so will be warmly received and respected by others.

One thing to remember, particularly during the holiday season, is to be grateful for what you have and not what you don’t have at the moment. Remember that the holidays are about spreading cheer and being thankful.

TIP 2: Think of New Beginnings Not of Things Ending

You don’t have to choose to dwell on the ending of a relationship with divorce. You can look at it as the start of a new beginning for you. Incorporating new traditions into the holiday season is a great way to begin enacting this mindset. New traditions could include volunteering at a shelter or bringing dinner to someone else in need. Taking up a new hobby or joining a gym are also good ways to embrace a new start. If you have children, the holiday season is in ideal time to begin anew.

TIP 3: Don’t Deny Yourself Happiness

No, going through a holiday divorce might not be ideal, but it is an opportunity for you to distance yourself from a toxic relationship and reclaim yourself which is worth its weight in gold. Above all, don’t lose sight of that this holiday season.

Holiday divorce

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?

For nearly 50 years, Fry & Elder has been identified as a premier and elite Oklahoma family law firm. Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. is one of only 19 attorneys in Oklahoma to be a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and also has been named  Lawyer of the Year for Family Law in Tulsa for 2016 by Best Lawyers®. 

Fellow Fry & Elder partner M. Shane Henry was named the 2016 Oklahoma Family Law Attorney of the Year by the Oklahoma Bar Association Family Law Section. Fry and Henry are both listed by Best Lawyers® for their excellence in family law for 2018. The two distinguished divorce attorneys have helped Fry & Elder be named to the prestigious U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List from 2014-2018.

The firm’s vaunted lineup of attorneys also includes:

If you or someone you care about are going through a holiday divorce and are in need of legal assistance, contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with a proven Oklahoma divorce lawyer.

Request a Consult

Call 918.585.1107 to contact an attorney and schedule a consultation today.

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