Marriage is one of life’s most significant commitments, and while love and trust are the foundation of any relationship, financial clarity is equally important. A prenuptial agreement (prenup) is a legal tool that can protect both partners by defining financial rights and responsibilities before marriage. 

Although the idea of a prenuptial agreement might be initially uncomfortable for many, the reality is that couples should be open to discussing financial concerns that could arise should their partnership end due to an unfortunate event. Furthermore, drafting a prenup without legal guidance can lead to costly mistakes and disputes in the future. Fry & Elder’s team of attorneys highlights why consulting with an experienced Tulsa prenuptial agreement attorney is essential when creating a prenup.

1. Ensures Compliance with Oklahoma Law

Oklahoma law governs the enforceability of prenuptial agreements, and without proper legal guidance, a prenup can be deemed invalid. Attorneys ensure the agreement meets all state requirements, including:

• Full financial disclosure from both parties
  
• Fair and reasonable terms
  
• Proper execution, including written form and notarization

A poorly drafted prenup can be challenged in court, leading to costly litigation. An attorney ensures your agreement stands up to legal scrutiny.

2. Customizes the Agreement to Your Needs

Every couple’s financial situation is unique. A generic or template-based prenup may not address your specific concerns. A Tulsa prenuptial agreement attorney will tailor the agreement to fit your needs, including:

• Protection of individual assets and businesses
• Debt allocation to prevent one spouse from inheriting the other’s financial liabilities
• Spousal support (alimony) arrangements
• Plans for retirement accounts, real estate, and inheritances
  

By working with an attorney, you get a legally sound prenup that reflects your financial priorities and personal circumstances.

3. Reduces Future Legal Disputes

A well-drafted prenuptial agreement minimizes the risk of lengthy and expensive legal battles in the event of a divorce. Without an attorney’s guidance, unclear language or unfair provisions could lead to disputes that may invalidate parts of the agreement. An experienced attorney ensures the contract is clear, fair, and enforceable.

4. Prevents One-Sided Agreements

Prenups must be fair to both parties. If an agreement is overly one-sided, a judge may rule it invalid. A lawyer ensures that both spouses enter the prenup voluntarily and that the terms are reasonable. Legal counsel for both parties is often recommended to prevent future claims of coercion or unfair advantage.

5. Provides Legal Protection for Children and Heirs

If you have children from a previous marriage, a prenuptial agreement can protect their inheritance rights. An attorney can help structure the agreement to ensure that specific assets remain designated for your children, safeguarding their financial future.

6. Facilitates Honest Financial Discussions

Many couples avoid discussing finances before marriage, which can lead to conflicts later. Consulting an attorney encourages full financial transparency, helping couples have open conversations about debts, assets, and financial expectations before saying “I do.”

7. Saves Time and Money in the Long Run

While hiring an attorney requires an upfront cost, it saves money in the long run by preventing legal disputes and ensuring financial clarity. A poorly drafted or contested prenup can lead to expensive court battles. Investing in legal counsel from the start helps avoid future financial stress.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

When it comes to family law in Tulsa and Oklahoma, it is hard for any firm to match Fry & Elder’s history and accomplishments in divorce, child custody, and child support issues that might surface.

For nearly 100 years, Fry & Elder has embodied Oklahoma family law excellence since first opening its doors in 1932. The firm features an elite team of experienced attorneys, well-versed and knowledgeable in all family law issues, including the importance of prenuptial agreements. The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014.

A prenuptial agreement is more than just a legal document — it’s a financial safeguard that provides peace of mind for both spouses. However, to ensure the agreement is legally enforceable and tailored to your needs, consulting with a qualified Tulsa prenuptial agreement attorney is essential. A legal expert will guide you through the process, ensure compliance with Oklahoma law, and protect your financial future.

Before you walk down the aisle, take the time to consult with a Tulsa family law attorney to create a fair, comprehensive, and legally sound prenuptial agreement—one that benefits both you and your future spouse. Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation.

The political and legal landscape is changing. One example of this came when President Trump issued a sweeping executive order (EO) earlier in the year to end illegal discrimination and restore merit-based opportunity. 

The EO directs the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) to cease promoting diversity, holding federal contractors responsible for taking “affirmative action,” and allowing or encouraging contractors to engage in workforce balancing based on race, color, sex, sexual preference, religion, or national origin. 

While the EO ends affirmative actions based on race and sex, it does not change existing prohibitions on discrimination in employment, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information, per the Oklahoma.gov website.   

Workplace discrimination remains a serious issue that can have profound effects on employees and businesses alike, making it imperative to consult with an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney. 

The attorneys of Fry & Elder understand the legal boundaries of workplace discrimination and employment law and have put together a real-life hypothetical of someone who believes she was wrongfully terminated due to gender discrimination in Tulsa.  

The Case of Sarah: A Hypothetical Lawsuit

Sarah worked for a mid-sized Tulsa-based tech company for five years. She had an excellent track record, received promotions, and was well-respected by her colleagues. However, after reporting a pattern of unequal pay between male and female employees, she noticed a change in management’s behavior. Suddenly, her performance reviews became negative, and she was eventually terminated under the pretext of “restructuring.”

Feeling that she was fired in retaliation for speaking out about gender discrimination, Sarah decided to take legal action. But navigating employment law is complex, and consulting an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney became essential.

Why Consulting with a Tulsa Employment Law Attorney Is Crucial

1. Understanding the Law
   Employment discrimination cases in Oklahoma fall under federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and state-specific protections. A lawyer can help determine whether Sarah’s termination violated these laws.
   
2. Gathering Evidence
   Proving workplace discrimination requires substantial evidence. A lawyer can guide Sarah in collecting emails, performance reviews, witness testimonies, and other documentation that supports her claim.
   
3. Filing the Proper Complaints
   Before suing, Sarah must file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Oklahoma Human Rights Commission. An attorney ensures this is done correctly and within legal timeframes.
   
4. Negotiation and Settlement
   Many discrimination cases settle before trial. An experienced attorney can negotiate with Sarah’s former employer to reach a fair settlement, potentially avoiding a lengthy court battle.
   
5. Litigation and Trial
   If negotiations fail, taking the case to court may be necessary. A skilled employment lawyer will represent Sarah, argue her case, and present compelling evidence to a judge or jury.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

Workplace discrimination cases are legally complex and emotionally taxing. Whether you’re an employee like Sarah or an employer facing an allegation, seeking legal counsel from an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney early can make all the difference. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work in Tulsa, consulting with an employment attorney is a crucial first step toward justice.

For nearly 100 years, Fry & Elder has embodied Oklahoma legal excellence since opening its doors in 1932. Fry & Elder features an elite team of experienced attorneys in successful protective order defense. The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014. 

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced Tulsa employment law attorney.

Planning for the future is an essential step in ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. A last will and testament is the primary legal document that dictates how your estate will be handled. While there are do-it-yourself options available, consulting with an experienced Tulsa estate planning attorney offers significant advantages that can help you avoid legal pitfalls and protect your loved ones. 

Fry & Elder’s team of attorneys are both knowledgeable and experienced in helping navigate one through the legal landscape of Tulsa estate planning and developing a concrete last will and testament. Here’s why legal guidance is essential when drafting your will in Oklahoma.

1. Compliance with Oklahoma State Laws

Each state has specific laws regarding the creation and execution of a valid will. Oklahoma law requires that a will be:

• Created by a person who is at least 18 years old and of sound mind
• Signed by the testator (the person making the will)
• Witnessed by at least two individuals who are not beneficiaries

An attorney ensures your will meets all these legal requirements, reducing the risk of it being contested or invalidated in probate court.

2. Avoiding Common Pitfalls and Disputes

A poorly drafted will can lead to confusion, legal battles, and even family disputes. Oklahoma courts may need to interpret unclear provisions, leading to unintended consequences. A lawyer ensures that your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable, preventing misunderstandings among your heirs.

3. Addressing Complex Financial and Family Situations

If you own a business, have a large estate, or have blended family dynamics, a basic will may not be sufficient. A Tulsa estate attorney can help with:

• Business succession planning
• Providing for minor children or special needs dependents
• Setting up trusts to manage wealth distribution
• Minimizing estate taxes and probate complications

4. Protecting Your Loved Ones with Guardianship Provisions

If you have minor children, your will should designate a guardian to care for them in the event of your passing. Without this provision, the court will decide who gains custody, which may not align with your wishes. An attorney can help you choose the best guardian and structure financial support for your children’s future.

5. Reducing Probate Costs and Delays

Oklahoma’s probate process can be time-consuming and expensive. While a will does not avoid probate, an attorney can suggest strategies such as revocable living trusts or transfer-on-death deeds to streamline the process and reduce costs for your heirs.

6. Keeping Your Will Updated

Life changes—marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or financial changes—necessitate updates to your will. An attorney can review your estate plan periodically to ensure it reflects your current wishes and complies with any new laws in Oklahoma.

7. Peace of Mind

Perhaps the most important reason to consult an attorney is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your estate is in order and that your loved ones will be taken care of according to your wishes allows you to focus on the present without worrying about the future.

Final Thoughts

A last will and testament is more than just a legal document — it’s a critical tool to safeguard your family’s future. While it may be tempting to use an online template, the risks of errors and legal challenges outweigh the cost of professional guidance.

If you’re ready to take the next step in estate planning, consulting with a Tulsa estate planning attorney is the best way to ensure that your will is legally sound, properly executed, and aligned with your specific needs.

Need Help Drafting Your Will in Oklahoma?

Fry & Elder’s accomplished team of attorneys are here to help you through every step of the process. Contact one of our experienced Tulsa estate planning attorneys today to discuss your options and create a customized plan that provides security for your loved ones.

School bullying in Oklahoma continues to be a prevalent issue many Oklahoma secondary school students – particularly those between seventh and twelfth grades – face. 

One recent report noted a 2023 study which indicated that “Oklahoma had the ninth-highest rate of bullying. Nearly 1 in 5 students experienced bullying, which was defined as spreading rumors, using insults and committing violence.”

The attorneys of Fry & Elder empathize with those victims and their families who have experienced school bullying – be it in the form of physical bullying or cyberbullying. 

Bullying in schools is a serious issue that can have long-lasting effects on a child’s mental health, academic success, and overall well-being. In Oklahoma, schools are required to implement anti-bullying policies, but too often, these policies are not enforced effectively. If your child has been a victim of bullying and the school has failed to take proper action, hiring an attorney may be the best course of action, and our attorneys have had a history of success in Oklahoma school bullying incidents.

Below are some telltale signs as to when it would be in your family and child’s best interest to reach out to a proven and experienced Oklahoma school bullying attorney. 

Schools May Fail to Protect Victims

Despite laws requiring schools to address bullying, many institutions fail to act appropriately. Administrators may downplay incidents, ignore complaints, or blame the victim instead of holding the bully accountable. An attorney can help ensure that the school follows state laws and its own policies in protecting your child.

Holding the School Accountable

Oklahoma law mandates that public schools have policies against bullying, but enforcement varies. If a school is neglecting its duty, an attorney can file a complaint with the school district, the Oklahoma State Department of Education, or even pursue legal action to hold the school accountable for failing to provide a safe learning environment.

Protecting Your Child’s Rights

Bullying can escalate to physical violence, harassment, or even discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. In such cases, legal protections may be available under federal laws such as Title IX or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). An attorney can help determine if your child’s rights have been violated and take appropriate legal action.

Seeking Compensation for Emotional and Physical Harm

If bullying has caused your child physical injuries, emotional distress, or academic setbacks, you may be entitled to damages. A lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical bills, therapy costs, and other expenses related to the bullying incident.

Advocating for Policy Changes

Sometimes, a single legal case can lead to broader policy changes within a school district. By taking legal action, you may help create safer environments for other students and ensure that schools take bullying more seriously in the future.

When to Contact an Attorney

No child should have to endure bullying alone. Hiring an attorney can be the first step toward justice, safety, and healing.

If your child has been bullied and the school has failed to respond appropriately, it may be time to consult a school bullying attorney. Look for legal professionals in Oklahoma who focus in education law or personal injury cases related to bullying. The sooner you act, the better you can protect your child’s future.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

For nearly a century, our attorneys at Fry & Elder have successfully fought for our clients since the firm was established in 1932. 

The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014. Preparation and the desire to give our clients the best representation possible are the motivating factors that enable us to be better informed and prepared than other attorneys. Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an attorney well-versed in navigating the landscape of school bullying in Oklahoma.

Protective orders are on the rise in Oklahoma, sometimes putting innocent parties or those charged with a false protective order in very precarious positions. Though fighting a false protective order in Oklahoma and winning a counterclaim may seem daunting, it is entirely possible with the help of a skilled and experienced protective order defense attorney.

The 2023 Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board noted that 20,356 protective orders were filed in Oklahoma in 2022 – a 6.1% increase from 2021. While protective orders are necessary legal defense tools to guard victims of perpetrators, they can also be used as leverage in family law and domestic disputes. 

The Tulsa family law firm of Fry & Elder is experienced in helping clients successfully defend a false protective order. This post provides an applicable hypothetical step-by-step guide of how one Tulsa resident successfully fought a false protective order and won a counterclaim.    

The Hypothetical Scenario

When Michael was served with a protective order, he couldn’t believe what he was reading. The allegations of harassment and threats were completely false, and the petitioner, a former romantic partner, was using the legal system to harm his reputation and gain an advantage in a custody dispute.

Determined to clear his name, Michael embarked on a step-by-step process to fight the false protective order—and his strategic efforts led to the dismissal of the order and a successful counterclaim. Here’s how he did it.

The steps taken

Step 1: Hire an Experienced Attorney

Michael’s first move was hiring an attorney in Tulsa with experience in protective order cases. His attorney explained the seriousness of the situation and walked him through the legal process.

“Having someone who knew the law inside and out was a game-changer,” Michael later said. “They kept me focused and helped me build a strong case.”

Step 2: Review and Analyze the Allegations

Michael and his attorney carefully reviewed the petitioner’s claims, noting several inconsistencies and vague accusations. This analysis helped them identify weak points in the petitioner’s case, such as a lack of evidence and conflicting dates in their timeline.

Step 3: Gather Evidence

To build his defense, Michael compiled evidence that directly contradicted the allegations:

• Digital Communication: Text messages and emails showed no signs of harassment or threats and instead painted a picture of routine, civil interactions.
• Witness Statements: Friends and family members were able to testify that Michael had never exhibited threatening behavior.
• Surveillance Footage: Video from a local coffee shop proved that Michael was not at the location where one of the alleged incidents supposedly occurred.
• Social Media Posts: Posts from the petitioner during the time of the alleged incidents demonstrated inconsistencies in their claims.

Step 4: Establish the Petitioner’s Motive

Michael’s attorney uncovered evidence that the protective order was part of a broader strategy in a custody battle. The petitioner had previously attempted to file baseless claims against Michael in family court, which strengthened his case that the protective order was filed in bad faith.

Step 5: Comply with the Temporary Protective Order

While preparing for the hearing, Michael strictly adhered to the terms of the temporary protective order. This demonstrated to the court that he respected the legal process and took the allegations seriously, even though they were false.

Step 6: Prepare for the Hearing

Michael and his attorney practiced his testimony, ensuring he was ready to present a calm and factual defense. They also prepared their witnesses and organized evidence for easy presentation in court.

Step 7: Present the Defense in Court

At the hearing, Michael’s attorney systematically dismantled the petitioner’s case:

• They highlighted inconsistencies in the petitioner’s testimony.
• Witnesses testified on Michael’s behalf, supporting his character and refuting the allegations.
• Key evidence, including surveillance footage and communication records, directly contradicted the petitioner’s claims.

When it was time to address the counterclaim, Michael’s attorney presented evidence of the petitioner’s harassment and abuse of the legal system.

Step 8: The Judge’s Ruling

After hearing both sides, the judge dismissed the protective order against Michael, citing a lack of credible evidence. The judge also ruled in favor of Michael’s counterclaim, granting him a protective order against the petitioner and awarding him compensation for legal fees and emotional distress.

Key Takeaways from Michael’s Case

1. Hire an Attorney Early: Professional legal guidance was critical in crafting a strong defense and counterclaim.
2. Document Everything: Michael’s diligent record-keeping played a pivotal role in disproving the allegations.
3. Remain Calm and Respectful: Adhering to the temporary protective order and presenting himself professionally in court bolstered Michael’s credibility.
4. Expose Motives: Establishing the petitioner’s ulterior motives helped undermine their case.
5. Pursue Justice: Filing a counterclaim sent a clear message that false accusations have consequences.

Michael’s experience serves as a reminder that a methodical and strategic approach can overcome even the most challenging accusations such as fighting a false protective order in Oklahioma. For anyone in a similar situation, his journey offers hope and a blueprint for success.

Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

To many, fighting a false protective order in Oklahoma and winning a counterclaim may initially seem insurmountable, Fry & Elder has helped many clients flip the legal table and successfully defend a false protective order that was filed against them. 

For nearly 100 years, Fry & Elder has embodied Oklahoma legal excellence since opening its doors in 1932. Fry & Elder features an elite team of experienced attorneys in successful protective order defense. The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014. Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced Tulsa protective order defense attorney.

Life happens. Sometimes, we make mistakes that leave a lasting mark on our criminal record. The good news is that for many people living in Oklahoma, there’s a legal process called expungement that can help clear those records, opening up new opportunities for employment, housing, and peace of mind. Fry & Elder’s knowledgeable team of attorneys discuss the Oklahoma expungement process and its benefits below.

This process of expunging one’s records gained even greater traction and endorsement in Oklahoma in 2022 when Governor Kevin Stitt signed into law a comprehensive process making expungement automatic for all otherwise eligible misdemeanors and a range of non-conviction records.  

As the Collateral Consequences Resources Center said, “Oklahoma thus becomes the tenth state to join the bipartisan trend toward broadening the availability of record clearing to people with convictions, without requiring them to file a petition and go to court for relief.”

What Is Expungement?

Expungement is a legal process that allows you to have certain criminal records sealed or erased. Once a record is expunged, it is no longer accessible to the public, including potential employers and landlords. However, some agencies, like law enforcement or courts, may still have access to the sealed records under specific circumstances.

A Successful Journey: John’s Expungement in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Let’s consider a hypothetical example of John, a Tulsa, Oklahoma resident, who successfully expunged his record.

John was arrested in his early twenties for a misdemeanor offense related to a minor altercation. After completing his probation, fulfilling all court-ordered obligations, and staying out of trouble for years, John found that his criminal record was still creating obstacles. He struggled to find better-paying jobs and was denied housing opportunities. That’s when he decided to pursue expungement.

Here’s how John navigated the process in Oklahoma:

1. Understanding Eligibility: John learned that under Oklahoma law, certain misdemeanors, non-violent felonies, and arrests that didn’t lead to charges could be expunged. He discovered that he met the criteria because he had fulfilled his sentence, stayed crime-free, and enough time had passed since the incident.
2. Filing the Petition: John filed a petition for expungement with the district court in Tulsa County. He paid the required filing fee and ensured all the necessary documents, including proof of completion of probation and a clean record since the offense, were included.
3. Notifying Relevant Parties: John’s attorney notified the district attorney’s office and law enforcement agencies about his petition, as required by Oklahoma law.
4. Court Hearing: At the hearing, John presented evidence of his rehabilitation, including steady employment, volunteer work, and character references from community members. His attorney highlighted how expungement would help him contribute more effectively to society.
5. The Court’s Decision: The judge granted John’s expungement request, ruling that it was in the best interest of both John and the community.

Why Seek Expungement?

Having a criminal record can be a significant barrier to moving forward in life. Here are some reasons why people seek expungement:

• Employment Opportunities: Many employers conduct background checks, and a clean record can improve your job prospects.
• Housing Access: Landlords often check criminal records, and expungement can make renting easier.
• Restoring Reputation: Clearing your record can give you a fresh start and reduce the stigma of past mistakes.

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Oklahoma?

Eligibility for expungement in Oklahoma depends on:

• The type of offense (e.g., misdemeanors, non-violent felonies, arrests without charges).
• The time elapsed since the conviction or completion of the sentence.
• Fulfillment of all court-ordered obligations (fines, restitution, probation).
• No subsequent criminal activity.

Tips for a Successful Expungement

• Be Honest: Provide accurate and complete information on your petition.
• Gather Documentation: Collect evidence of rehabilitation, such as employment records, community service, or character references.
• Follow Instructions: Ensure you adhere to all procedural requirements and deadlines.
• Seek Legal Assistance: An attorney specializing in expungement can guide you through the process and increase your chances of success.

Life After Expungement

Once your record is expunged, you can legally answer “No” when asked about a criminal history on most applications. However, be aware of exceptions, such as applying for certain government jobs or professional licenses.

Expungement isn’t just about clearing your record—it’s about reclaiming your life. If you’ve made mistakes in the past but have worked to move forward, pursuing expungement can be a powerful step toward a brighter future.

Getting a case expunged can feel daunting, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The attorneys at Fry & Elder are well-versed and can help successfully navigate you throughout the Oklahoma expungement process. By taking the initiative to clear your record, you’re investing in a future full of opportunities and second chances.If you’re considering expungement, start by understanding Oklahoma’s laws and reaching out to a qualified attorney. Click here to set up a personal consultation with an experienced Oklahoma expungement attorney.

The New Year signifies a new start for many. For some, it may involve jumping into a new career. For others, it could mean reassessing goals and priorities in life. And for others, it could mean getting out of and ending a toxic relationship by getting a divorce. 

Although coping with a divorce during the new year can feel overwhelming, it can also provide an opportunity for a fresh start. 

The attorneys of Tulsa family law firm Fry & Elder understand that going through a divorce during the new year can present challenges both financially and emotionally. Below are some strategies to help you navigate this transition and begin building a fulfilling new chapter in your life:

Acknowledge and Accept Your Emotions

• Allow Yourself to Feel: Grieve the loss of your marriage and accept that it’s normal to experience a range of emotions like sadness, anger, or relief.
• Practice Patience: Healing takes time. Be kind to yourself as you work through your emotions.

Create a Support System

• Lean on Friends and Family: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you.
• Professional Guidance: Consider therapy or counseling to gain perspective and coping tools.
• Support Groups: Join divorce support groups to connect with others who understand your experience.

Focus on Your Physical and Mental Health

• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps reduce stress and boost your mood.
• Healthy Eating: Nourish your body with balanced, nutritious meals.
• Mental Health Practices: Meditate, journal, or practice mindfulness to process your thoughts and emotions.

Build a New Routine

• Structure Your Days: Create a daily schedule that provides consistency and stability.
• Set Goals: Focus on personal, professional, or health-related goals to give yourself a sense of purpose.

Manage Legal and Financial Matters

• Organize Documents: Keep track of all legal and financial records related to your divorce.
• Consult Professionals: Work with attorneys or financial advisors to make informed decisions about your future.
• Create a Budget: Adjust to your new financial situation by planning for your needs and goals.

Rediscover Yourself

• Revisit Hobbies: Engage in activities you enjoy or explore new ones that excite you.
• Invest in Learning: Take a class, learn a new skill, or focus on personal growth.
• Redefine Your Identity: Use this time to reconnect with who you are outside of the marriage.

Set Boundaries with Your Ex-Spouse

• Communicate Clearly: If communication is necessary (e.g., for co-parenting), keep it respectful and focused.
• Limit Interaction: Reduce unnecessary contact to create emotional space for healing.
• Seek Mediation if Needed: Use a neutral third party to resolve conflicts amicably.

Create New Traditions

• Celebrate Differently: Start new traditions for holidays or special occasions to mark your new beginning.
• Focus on Positivity: Find joy in small, meaningful activities that make you happy.

Plan for the Future

• Set Long-Term Goals: Envision what you want your life to look like and take steps toward it.
• Focus on Growth: Use this period as an opportunity for self-improvement and transformation.

Take It One Day at a Time

• Be Present: Focus on getting through each day rather than worrying about the entire year ahead.
• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and appreciate even the smallest achievements.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

If you or a loved one are coping with a divorce during the New Year or are in an unhealthy relationship, the attorneys of Fry & Elder are here to help navigate you through the process.

For nearly 100 years, Fry & Elder has embodied Oklahoma family law excellence since first opening its doors in 1932. The firm features an elite team of experienced attorneys more than well versed and knowledgeable in all family law issues. The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014.

Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a past president of the Oklahoma Chapter and has been named to the esteemed The Best Lawyers in America® directory for 15 consecutive years

Firm attorneys Simon Harwood, James Morton, Preston Bennett, Zach Mortazavi, Brian Jackson, and Grayson Glover are also well-versed in navigating the challenges of dealing with a divorce in the new year.

Divorce is a significant life change, but it also offers the chance for renewal and growth opportunities. By focusing on self-care, setting boundaries, and embracing new opportunities, you can build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling in the new year. 

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced Tulsa family law attorney.

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Families and friends gather to exchange gifts, share meals, and create lasting memories. However, this festive spirit often comes with a dark side: the increased prevalence of drinking and driving during the holiday season. And no other holiday in the calendar year is drinking more associated with than New Year’s Eve.

Tulsa law enforcement agencies are aware of increased drinking and driving during the holiday season and will be running DUI checkpoints in parts of Tulsa County on New Year’s Eve. 

The Tulsa World reported that There were 149 collisions during the 2020 New Year’s Eve holiday period, the OHP reported, adding that two of them were fatal and 27 were alcohol or drug-related. 

Why Increased Drinking and Driving During the Holiday Season?

The festive atmosphere, combined with time off work and an abundance of parties, creates an environment where overindulgence is common. Many people underestimate the effects of alcohol, believing they can “handle it” or that they’re “just going a short distance.” Unfortunately, even small amounts of alcohol impair judgment, reaction time, and motor skills — a dangerous trio when behind the wheel.

A Deadly Combination  

Statistics show that the holiday season sees a sharp rise in alcohol-related accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly one-third of all traffic deaths in the United States involve drunk drivers. During the holidays, this number spikes, with celebratory gatherings often featuring alcoholic beverages.

The agency also reported on its website that 1,062 people died in drunk driving crashes in 2022 – the most recent data year available and the highest number of fatalities since 2007.

The consequences of driving under the influence (DUI) are devastating. Beyond the potential loss of life, DUIs can result in severe injuries, legal repercussions, and emotional trauma for victims and their families. For the driver, the aftermath includes fines, jail time, loss of driving privileges, and a tarnished reputation.

Protecting Yourself and Others

1. Plan Ahead: If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service, or stay overnight at your celebration location.
2. Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverage options and encourage guests to make safe transportation plans.
3. Be Vigilant: If you notice someone attempting to drive after drinking, intervene. Offer to call them a cab or find another way to get them home safely.
4. Stay Alert on the Road: Be cautious of other drivers, especially during peak holiday times. Impaired drivers are often on the roads late at night or after big events.

The Cost of Negligence

Drunk driving is not just a personal mistake; it’s a community hazard. One moment of poor judgment can shatter countless lives. The financial toll of DUIs is also significant, with costs ranging from legal fees to medical bills and property damage. However, these numbers pale in comparison to the emotional and psychological scars left behind.

A Season for Safety

The holidays are meant to be a time of celebration, not tragedy. By making responsible choices and encouraging others to do the same, we can ensure that the season remains joyful for everyone. Let’s prioritize safety, cherish our loved ones, and commit to keeping our roads free from impaired drivers. Fry & Elder wants all Oklahoma drivers to give the gift of safety this holiday season: don’t drink and drive

The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and togetherness, but for many families, navigating holiday season child custody arrangements can bring stress and conflict. The Tulsa family law attorneys of Fry & Elder recognize this and have put together the following real-life hypothetical child custody scenario involving Lisa and Tom who share custody of their 10-year-old daughter, Mia. Despite having a court-ordered agreement in place, the holidays have become a battleground for disputes.

Here’s how Lisa and Tom’s challenges unfolded — and how they could have handled things differently.

The Problem

Lisa and Tom’s custody agreement stipulates that they alternate Christmas and Thanksgiving each year. However, this year, Lisa’s family planned a big Christmas trip to a cabin in Colorado, which falls on Tom’s designated holiday. Lisa asked Tom to switch days, but he refused, citing his family’s traditions.

As tensions tensions escalated, communication broke down. Tom insisted on sticking to the child custody agreement, while Lisa accused him of not being flexible. Meanwhile Mia, caught in the middle, felt the strain as her parents argued over her holiday plans.

The Impact on Mia

Mia, who loves spending time with both sides of her family, began dreading the holidays.

• She felt guilty for wanting to join her mother Lisa’s trip to Colorado but didn’t want to disappoint her father Tom who would be staying in Tulsa for Christmas..
• The constant bickering made her anxious, dampening her excitement for the season.

The holidays, instead of being a time of joy, became a source of stress for Mia – stress a 10-year old should not have to endure during the holiday season.

What Went Wrong?

Several issues contributed to the breakdown:

1. Rigid Thinking: Both Lisa and Tom prioritized their desires over their daughter Mia’s experience during the holiday season.\.
2. Lack of Communication: They didn’t discuss holiday plans until the last minute, leaving no room for compromise.

Both of these above issues, along with past discontent toward one another, failed to prioritize Mia’s needs. The focus, instead, shifted from Mia’s happiness to a power struggle over holiday season child custody agreements.

A Better Approach

The family law attorneys of Fry & Elder believe that both Lisa and Tom could have handled their holiday season child custody agreements during the holiday season better and more effectively.

1. Plan Ahead

If Lisa had brought up the trip earlier, Tom might have been more open to discussing a schedule change. Advance planning allows both parents to adjust expectations and logistics.

2. Mediate Disputes

Instead of escalating the conflict, they could have sought help from a neutral mediator. A mediator or knowledgeable Tulsa family law attorney could guide the discussion, ensuring Mia’s needs stayed at the center.

3. Compromise for the Child’s Benefit

Compromise doesn’t mean losing — it means finding a solution that benefits everyone, particularly during holiday season child custody arrangements. For example:

• Tom could have agreed to let Mia join the cabin trip, provided he got additional time during New Year’s.
• Lisa could have adjusted her trip dates to align with the custody schedule.

4. Communicate Directly and Respectfully

Using co-parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard or Talking Parents could have facilitated clear, documented communication, reducing misunderstandings and emotional outbursts.

5. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

Both parents could remember that holiday magic isn’t tied to a specific date. If Mia celebrated “Christmas” with her father Tom later in December, the love and joy would be just as meaningful.

How Things Turned Around

Eventually, Lisa and Tom realized the toll their conflict was taking on Mia. With help from a family counselor, they renegotiated their holiday plans. This year, Mia would spend Christmas in Colorado with her mother Lisa and return to Tulsa later in the week to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s with her father Tom.

To make up for the lost time, Lisa offered Tom an extra weekend in January. They also agreed to meet every September to review and adjust holiday plans for the coming year.

Mia, seeing her parents working together, felt relieved and excited to enjoy the holidays with both families.

While not all holiday season child custody agreements can work out as well as Lisa and Tom’s initial disagreement, the Tulsa family law attorneys of Fry & Elder encourage you to always keep the best interests of your child in mind