As Fry & Elder attorneys Zach Mortazavi and Preston Bennett are well aware that navigating medical decision making in an Oklahoma divorce requires careful planning, effective communication, and a commitment to the well-being of the children involved.

By understanding legal responsibilities, fostering collaboration, and creating a comprehensive medical plan, parents can work together to provide the best possible healthcare for their children in the midst of a challenging divorce.

The two up-and-coming Tulsa family law attorneys offer some keen advice and a practical guide to navigating medical decision making in an Oklahoma divorce.

As one might expect, divorce is a complex and emotionally charged process, and when children are involved, decisions about their healthcare can add an extra layer of complexity. Mortazavi and Bennett explore the challenges of medical decision-making in divorce and provide practical insights to help parents navigate this aspect of co-parenting.

The Importance of Understanding Legal Responsibilities:

• Overview of legal frameworks: Highlight the importance of understanding custody arrangements, legal responsibilities, and the role of each parent in making medical decisions.

• Custody agreements: Discuss how custody agreements can impact decision-making authority and the need for clear, detailed terms in the divorce settlement.

The Importance Communication and Collaboration:

• Both Mortazavi and Bennett emphasize open and transparent communication between co-parents for effective medical decision-making.

• They also discuss the benefits of coordinating healthcare plans. It is vital to explore the benefits of coordinating healthcare plans and sharing important medical information to ensure both parents are informed.

The Importance of Creating a Medical Plan:

• By developing a comprehensive plan, parents can create a detailed medical plan that outlines decision-making processes, communication channels, and responsibilities.

• A well-tailored medical plan will help should emergency situations arise, as it will address how parents can prepare for and handle medical emergencies, including the importance of sharing emergency contacts and medical history.

Mediation and Professional Assistance in navigating medical decision making in an Oklahoma divorce:

• The Role of mediation: Explore the benefits of using mediation to resolve disputes related to medical decision-making, fostering a cooperative co-parenting environment.

• Involving healthcare professionals: Discuss the role of healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians and therapists, in mediating and guiding medical decisions.

The emotional impact divorce can have on children:

• Both Mortazavi and Bennett emphasize that minimizing stress for children is critical when a family is going through a divorce.

• The two attorneys say that stress can often be alleviated through encouraging open communication with children: Both attorneys can provide tips on fostering open conversations with children about their healthcare needs and decisions.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder

Fry & Elder has been a household name in the realm of Tulsa family law excellence for nearly 100 years.  Our team of attorneys are well-versed in navigating medical decision making in an Oklahoma divorce, and we have successfully defended and fought for our clients for decades.

In addition to Mortazavi and Bennett, Fry & Elder’s team of attorneys also feature Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. who has been selected by Best Lawyers® for inclusion in its annual The Best Lawyers in America® directory for 14 consecutive years.

Fry Jr. also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a past president of the Oklahoma Chapter.

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 over 50 years of legal experience, Robert G Fry Jr. knows a thing or two about practicing law. Still, Fry can’t help but get perplexed about certain legal policies and strategies that are often promoted one of which being the Joint Tenancy Right of Survivorship.

Fry understands the significance and the complexities of buying a house, particularly with a significant other. However, one thing that continually baffles the accomplished Tulsa divorce attorney and real estate owner is the Joint Tenancy Right of Survivorship most real-estate agents push new homeowners to sign.

“I would say nine out 10 real estate agents think signing a Joint Tenancy Right of Survivorship is the only way to go,” Robert G Fry Jr. said. “That could not be further from the truth.”

Fry, who a been named a has been selected by Best Lawyers® for inclusion in its annual The Best Lawyers in America® directory for 14 consecutive years and is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a past president of the Oklahoma Chapter, discusses some of the consequences and risks associated with Joint Tenancy Right of Survivorship.

Lack of Flexibility:

Joint tenancy can be inflexible, especially when circumstances change. Unlike other estate planning tools that allow for customization, JTWROS doesn’t provide much room for adjustments. If the co-owners experience a falling out, divorce, or other changes in their relationship, undoing or modifying the joint tenancy can be challenging, leading to legal disputes and financial headaches.

Creditor and Legal Issues:

Another often overlooked peril is the exposure to the debts and legal troubles of the co-owners. In a joint tenancy, each party’s interest is vulnerable to the other’s liabilities. If one co-owner faces financial difficulties or a legal judgment, the jointly owned property could be at risk, putting the financial security of the other owner in jeopardy.

Loss of Control:

Joint tenancy involves relinquishing a degree of control over the property. While this may not be an issue in harmonious relationships, disagreements can arise regarding property management, maintenance, or potential sales. Disputes over the use or disposition of the property may lead to costly legal battles, undermining the convenience that joint tenancy aims to provide.

Unintended Consequences of Joint Tenancy Right of Survivorship:

One of the primary perils of JTWROS lies in its potential for unintended consequences. Individuals may enter into joint tenancy without fully understanding how it interacts with their overall estate plan. Inadvertently disinheriting intended heirs or causing family disputes over property distribution can occur when the survivorship feature is not thoroughly contemplated.

Robert G Fry Jr. expands on these unintended consequences, saying all too often property buyers are confused during the buying process and all too often given bad advice.

“Don’t let a bank, lender or real estate agent tell you to buy any real property taking title JTWROS because the loan or deed should be in both names,” Fry said. “That is false. Only the mortgage needs to be in both names not the deed or note depending on the circumstances.”

While joint tenancy with right of survivorship can be a straightforward way to transfer property, Robert G Fry Jr. says individuals must be aware of its potential pitfalls. Thorough estate planning, including consultation with legal and financial professionals, is essential to mitigate the risks associated with joint tenancy. By carefully considering the long-term implications, individuals can make informed decisions that align with their broader estate planning goals.

If you or someone you know has questions about Joint Tenancy Right of Survivorship Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced attorney.

As two young up-and-coming attorneys, Preston Bennett and Zach Mortazavi have a presence on social media. The two Fry & Elder attorneys are also well-versed in the perils social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok can pose. 

“I look at social media as a bit of a double-edged sword,” Preston Bennett said. “On one hand, it does allow you to keep in touch with old friends and distant relatives. It also can serve as a tremendous creative outlet for many. On the other hand, social media can also bring about stress and turmoil, particularly for those involved in a volatile divorce. There definitely are some benefits of staying off social media during a divorce.

Bennett and Mortazavi add this tidbit of advice for each of their clients.

“We tell our clients they don’t necessarily need to go dormant or get completely off social media,” Zach Mortazavi says, “but posting certain images or messages can quickly amplify and intensify situations.”

The two attorneys are quick to point out some insight, and benefits of staying off social media during a divorce and embracing the healing power of the offline world.

These include:

Preserving Privacy and Emotional Space

Divorce is a deeply personal experience, and maintaining privacy is crucial for emotional healing. Stepping away from social media provides a sanctuary where intimate details and emotions can be shielded from the public eye, allowing individuals to process their feelings without external pressures.

Avoiding Comparisons and Judgments

Social media often presents a curated version of reality, and during a divorce, comparing one’s life to others can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy or failure. By disconnecting, individuals can break free from the cycle of comparison and judgments, fostering a healthier perspective on their own journey.

Fostering Real-Life Connections

In times of emotional upheaval, the support of friends and family is invaluable. Staying off social media encourages face-to-face interactions, allowing individuals to build a support system rooted in genuine connections. Sharing experiences and seeking solace offline can provide a more profound sense of companionship during challenging times.

Mitigating Legal Consequences

Divorce proceedings can be complex, and social media activity may be scrutinized during legal processes. Refraining from online engagement helps prevent potential complications that may arise from public posts or discussions, safeguarding both emotional well-being and legal standing.

Focus on Personal Growth and Healing

Social media can serve as a constant reminder of the past, hindering personal growth and the healing process. Disconnecting allows individuals to redirect their energy towards self-discovery, self-care, and rebuilding a life outside the digital realm, fostering a positive mindset for the future.

Reclaiming Control Over Narrative

By staying off social media, individuals can reclaim control over their narrative. Divorce is a chapter in life, not the entire story. Taking a step back from online platforms enables individuals to shape their own narrative, share their experiences on their terms, and regain a sense of empowerment.

In conclusion, there are many benefits of staying off social media during a divorce. As Preston Bennett and Zach Mortazavi explain, navigating divorce without the digital noise of social media can be a transformative experience. Embracing the offline world provides a sanctuary for healing, personal growth, and the rebuilding of a life untethered from the constraints of the online realm. In this journey, the strength found in solitude and real-life connections becomes a guiding light toward a brighter, more resilient future.

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable Tulsa divorce attorney.

Meet the Robertsons.

After a tumultuous marriage, they decided to part ways, initiating divorce proceedings. As the divorce unfolded, the couple found themselves entangled in a contentious custody battle over their two children ages 9 and 11.

After a lengthy trial, the court granted joint legal custody but awarded primary physical custody to Ms. Robertson. The court also ordered Mr. Robertson to pay child support and spousal support, based on his higher income. The family home was awarded to the wife, and other assets were divided equitably.

As might possibly be expected, Mr. Robertson felt unhappy with the court’s decision and decided to pursue an appeal. 

Although a hypothetical, the above scenario is something the attorneys at Fry & Elder are all too familiar with navigating through the process of Oklahoma family and civil appeals. The elite Tulsa law firm has been synonymous with family law excellence dating back all the way to 1932 and is here to help someone in a potentially similar situation navigate through the complex maze of family law and civil appeals. 

“In Oklahoma, appeals need to be filed within 30 days of the order and in many cases, within 30 days of service,” Fry & Elder Managing Partner Simon Harwood said. “The time frame usually takes between 3-5 months, and we would only accept appeal cases where there is a chance of success.

“We would be straight-forward and honest about these odds in the initial consultation as we have a desire to only take appeals that have a fighting chance. That said, our track record at Fry & Elder has been very good.” 

A Brief Overview of Oklahoma Family and Civil Appeals

In the realm of legal proceedings, family and civil appeals stand as crucial stages where individuals seek justice, resolution, and a fair hearing for their disputes. As these areas deal with fundamental aspects of human life, such as relationships, property, and personal rights, the appellate process plays a vital role in ensuring that justice is served. In this blog post, Fry & Elder will delve into the intricacies of family and civil appeals, shedding light on their significance, common issues, and the procedural steps involved.

What to Understand Regarding Oklahoma Family Appeal

Family appeals pertain to legal matters involving familial relationships, such as divorce, child custody, spousal support, and adoption. These cases often involve sensitive issues that impact individuals and families profoundly. Key aspects of family appeals include:

• Child Custody and Visitation:
• Appeals may be sought when one party believes the trial court made an error in determining custody arrangements or visitation rights.
• Property Division:
• Disputes regarding the division of assets and liabilities in divorce cases can lead to appeals, especially if there are allegations of unfair distribution.
• Alimony and Support:
• Appeals may arise when parties contest the amount or duration of alimony or child support awarded by the trial court.
• Modification of Orders:
• Parties may appeal to modify existing family court orders if there is a significant change in circumstances.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Emotional Toll:
• Family appeals often involve emotionally charged issues, making the process challenging for all parties involved.
• Legal Expertise:
• Both civil and family appeals require a deep understanding of the law, and individuals are encouraged to seek legal representation to navigate the complexities effectively.
• Timely Filing:
• Strict deadlines exist for filing notices of appeal, underscoring the importance of timely action in the appellate process.

What to Understand Regarding Oklahoma Civil Appeals

Civil appeals arise from disputes between individuals, organizations, or entities, often involving issues such as contracts, property rights, or personal injury. When a party is dissatisfied with the outcome of a trial court decision, they may choose to appeal the case to a higher court. Key considerations in civil appeals include:

• Grounds for Appeal:
• Legal Errors: Appellants typically argue that the trial court made legal errors, misinterpreted the law, or applied it incorrectly.
• Factual Errors: Appellants may contend that the trial court misunderstood or misapplied the facts of the case.
• Appellate Process:
• Filing a Notice of Appeal: Initiating the appellate process begins with filing a notice of appeal within a specified timeframe after the trial court’s decision.
• Briefs and Oral Arguments: Both parties submit written arguments (briefs), and oral arguments may be presented before the appellate court.
• Standard of Review:
• Appellate courts generally defer to the trial court’s findings of fact but review legal issues de novo, meaning without deference to the trial court.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?

As previously mentioned, Fry & Elder has been a household name in the realm of Tulsa family law excellence for nearly 100 years.  Our team of attorneys are well-versed in the navigating the complexities of Oklahoma family and civil appeals, and we have successfully defended and fought for our clients for decades.

Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. has been selected byBest Lawyers® for inclusion in its annualThe Best Lawyers in America® directory for 14 consecutive years and is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a past president of the Oklahoma Chapter.

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.

It wasn’t an epiphany Zach Mortazavi had per se, it was a pattern he began to recognize. First inside his Fry & Elder Tulsa law office while meeting with clients and then while attending the AFCC-AAML 2023 Conference on Advanced Issues in Child Custody: Evaluation, Litigation, and Settlement in Washington D.C. earlier in the fall. It was while attending that conference that the growing concern of mental health issues in Oklahoma child custody cases was reinforced.

During Day 3 of the conference, Zach Mortazavi attended a seminar that focused on mental health issues surrounding child custody cases.

The seminar titled “Evidentiary Considerations with Mental Health Experts in Child Custody Litigation,” highlighted how the rules of evidence, the reliability and validity of experts’ methods, theories, and opinions, and the relevance and helpfulness of experts’ methods to the court are some of the critical evidentiary issues that judges, lawyers, and experts must consider in performing their roles.

“Mental health pops up a lot in divorce and child custody cases in Oklahoma,” Zach Mortazavi said. “It is a big concern and one of the reasons is there are a lot of aggressive divorces in today’s age. Parents really need to shift their focus from themselves to their children. Quite often, kids need more than a parent in a volatile situation, so mental health experts really play a big role today.”

The American Psychological Association reported that “Children’s mental health is in crisis.”

Mortazavi says there are several contributing factors as to why mental health issues in Oklahoma child custody have become such a growing concern. Among those include the lingering mental health issues stemming from the Coronavirus pandemic, the proliferation of social media, and the continued increase in inflation. Both have caused many couples to grow apart and many children to isolate themselves, particularly in explosive situations.

“There are a number of things that are leading to more and more mental health issues involving children in Oklahoma child custody cases,” Zach Mortazavi said. “Oklahoma is a state that applies the ‘best interest of the child’ standard when determining visitation and child custody issues, but I think even more could be done at the beginning of the litigation process. Based on today’s trends, I really think the child needs to have an advocate whether that is a mental health counselor, child psychologist, or an attorney.” 

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.

Recognizing the signs of mental distress in children during divorce is crucial. Professional therapy, such as counseling and support groups, can provide a safe space for children to express their emotions and develop coping mechanisms. Engaging with mental health professionals helps children navigate the complexities of divorce and build resilience for the future.

Fry & Elder Remains a Cutting-Edge Oklahoma Child Custody Law Firm

Whether it involves a divorce settlement or navigating through the growing trend of mental health issues in Oklahoma child custody cases, Fry & Elder has long been synonymous with Oklahoma family law evidence, particularly in child custody cases.

This stems back to Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. garnering a reputation as one of the nation’s leading child custody attorneys and arguably the best advocate in Oklahoma.

Fry’s passion for his work has been well-documented and has not gone unnoticed for some time. He was proactive in embracing and advancing the changes in child support guidelines in the 1980s, which drew national attention.

He was interviewed on CBS The Early Show in a divorce series entitled, “What About the Kids?”

For his efforts, Fry has been selected by Best Lawyers® for inclusion in its annual The Best Lawyers in America® directory for 14 consecutive years. He also has helped Fry & Elder get named to the United States Best Law Firms® rankings each of the past 10 years.

“I agree with Zach that mental health issues are becoming even more of a growing concern in Oklahoma child custody cases,” Robert Fry Jr. said. “As a firm, we are dedicated to our clients particularly in doing what is in the best interest of the child. That is why our younger attorneys like Zach are attending some of these high-profile conferences so that they can acquire more insight and perspective on how to navigate through the complexities of some of these cases”

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable Oklahoma child custody attorney. 

Like so many aspiring attorneys growing up, Preston Bennett was enthralled by legal courtroom thrillers inspired by the likes of Harper Lee and John Grisham.

Now, as an up-and-coming Tulsa family law attorney, Preston Bennett sees things with a different angle of vision.

“I don’t see divorce mediation or compromise as being dirty words,” Preston Bennett said. “The concept that many have of a trial curing all of your ills is a little like a TV and movie myth. Now that I have been in the profession for a few years, I can honestly say that the majority of the time, it’s better to make a deal knowing what you will get, rather than rolling the dice with a judge in the courtroom.”

Although Fry & Elder attorneys have excelled in trial and in the courtroom dealing with an array of family law issues such a divorce, child custody, and child support, there is merit to Bennett’s newfound ideology.  

Defining Divorce Mediation in Oklahoma

Mediation in the context of divorce refers to a process in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, assists divorcing couples in reaching agreements on various issues related to their separation.

Bennett believes the ultimate goal of divorce mediation is to facilitate communication and cooperation between the parties, helping them to work together to find mutually acceptable solutions, rather than relying on the court to make decisions for them.

In fact, mediation in Tulsa County is generally required before the court will give you a trial date. Also mediators do not gather information that’s why you need a good attorney to properly prepare you with the documents and fax that are necessary to be persuasive during the mediation process. 

Divorce mediation in Oklahoma can work in many ways, but here is how one often works:

• Neutral Mediator:
  • The mediator is a trained and impartial professional who does not take sides or make decisions for the couple.
  • The mediator’s role is to guide the discussion, foster effective communication, and help the couple explore and generate their own solutions.
• Voluntary Process:
  • Mediation is generally a voluntary process, meaning that both parties must agree to participate.
  • It provides a less adversarial alternative to traditional litigation, allowing couples to have more control over the outcome.
• Identifying Issues:
  • The mediator helps the couple identify and prioritize the issues that need resolution, such as child custody, child support, spousal support, and the division of assets and debts.
• Open Communication:
  • During mediation sessions, the parties have the opportunity to express their concerns, needs, and preferences openly.
  • The mediator facilitates a constructive dialogue, ensuring that both parties have the chance to be heard.
• Generating Options:
  • The mediator assists the couple in brainstorming and generating potential solutions to the issues at hand.
  • This collaborative process encourages creativity and flexibility in finding resolutions that meet the needs of both parties.
• Agreement and Documentation:
  • When the couple reaches agreements on all relevant issues, the mediator helps formalize these agreements into a legally binding document, often called a mediation agreement or settlement agreement.
• Legal Review and Filing:
  • While the mediator may provide information about legal principles, it is advisable for each party to consult with their own attorney to review the proposed agreement before signing.
  • Once signed, the agreement can be submitted to the court for approval, finalizing the divorce.

What Are The Benefits of Divorce Mediation in Oklahoma?

Mediation in divorce offers various benefits for couples seeking an amicable and efficient resolution to their marital issues. Here are some key advantages:

• Reduced Conflict: Mediation promotes open communication and cooperation, helping to minimize hostility and conflict between spouses. The neutral mediator assists in managing emotions and finding common ground, leading to a more amicable resolution.

• Cost Savings: Mediation is often more cost-effective than traditional litigation. It typically involves fewer billable hours for attorneys and avoids the expenses associated with court appearances, filings, and lengthy legal proceedings.

• Time Efficiency: Mediation can be a quicker process compared to court-based divorce. Since the parties are actively involved in discussions and decision-making, they can reach agreements faster, reducing the overall time it takes to finalize the divorce.

• Greater Control and Flexibility: In mediation, couples have more control over the outcome. They actively participate in shaping agreements on issues such as child custody, asset division, and support. This flexibility allows for personalized solutions that may better suit the needs of the family.

• Confidentiality: Mediation sessions are private and confidential. This confidentiality encourages open and honest communication between spouses, as they can freely discuss their concerns without fear that their statements will be used against them in court.
• Customized Solutions: Mediation allows for creative and customized solutions to specific family issues. Since the parties are actively engaged in problem-solving, they can craft agreements that better address their unique circumstances and priorities.

• Emphasis on Communication Skills: Mediation often helps improve communication skills between spouses. The process encourages listening, understanding, and effective communication, which can be valuable not only during the divorce but also in future interactions, especially if there are ongoing co-parenting responsibilities.

• Less Emotional Toll: The collaborative nature of mediation can reduce the emotional toll on both parties. It provides a supportive environment that focuses on finding solutions rather than escalating conflicts, leading to a potentially smoother emotional transition for everyone involved.

Preston Bennett highlights that while mediation has many benefits, it may not be suitable for all cases, especially those involving domestic violence, significant power imbalances, or extreme hostility. Each divorce case is unique, and couples should carefully consider their own circumstances and preferences when deciding on the appropriate approach.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?

The Fry & Elder name has been synonymous with Oklahoma legal excellence since 1932. Our team of attorneys are well-versed in divorce mediation, and we also have successfully defended and fought for our clients for decades.

Our commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. 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 Preston Bennett or another one of our experienced attorneys.

Although the holiday season is often portrayed as a time of love, joy, and togetherness that is not always the case for many individuals, those struggling with marital issues often see those compounded during the holidays due to the stress and added family obligations. Simply put: A turbulent holiday season can often lead to a post holiday divorce in Tulsa. 

The attorneys of Fry & Elder are sensitive to the situations individuals face when considering a post-holiday divorce. While resolution is always promoted, sometimes a breakaway at the start of the New Year can be the perfect tonic for someone looking to exit an unhealthy and even abusive marriage.

With nearly 100 years of experience in the realm of family law, Fry & Elder has been a hallmark of Tulsa family law excellence. Fry& Elder has been honored by Best Lawyers® as one of the Best U.S. Law Firms for family law excellence each of the past 10 years.

Firm attorneys have also received numerous legal accolades including Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. who has been selected by Best Lawyers® for inclusion in its annual The Best Lawyers in America® directory for 14 consecutive years.

Fry & Elder’s team of attorneys answer some of the more reasons as to what leads to a post-holiday divorce in Tulsa.

Heightened Stress Levels

The holiday season can bring about a surge in stress, whether due to financial pressures, the demands of gift shopping, or the effort required to plan and host gatherings. For couples already experiencing tension in their marriage, these added stressors can push them to a breaking point, leading to discussions of divorce in the new year.

Unrealistic Expectations

The holidays often come with lofty expectations of joy and perfection. Couples may feel immense pressure to create the ideal holiday experience, from decorating their homes to planning gatherings and exchanging gifts. When these expectations are not met, feelings of disappointment can intensify existing marital issues.

Escalating Conflicts

The combination of heightened emotions, financial strain, and increased alcohol consumption at holiday gatherings can lead to escalated conflicts between spouses. Arguments and misunderstandings that occur during this time can contribute to a breakdown in communication and further strain the marriage.

Why the Need to Contact an Experienced Divorce Lawyer if You are Going Through a Post Holiday Divorce in Tulsa?

Ending a marriage, no matter how long it was is never easy, and you may be unsure of what your first move should be. Whether you are considering a divorce or are already separated, you should consult with an experienced and compassionate attorney.

Fry & Elder’s team of elite Tulsa divorce attorneys always will not only help navigate you through the post-holiday divorce work that includes filling out the necessary paperwork, we will also customize a creative and dynamic game plan moving forward that will ensure you the best avenue for success moving forward in this new chapter of your life.

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with a knowledgeable and committed Tulsa divorce lawyer.

Zach Mortazavi carries a boundless, yet infectious energy that comes as no surprise to his clients and those who work with the young up-and-coming trial attorney at Fry & Elder.

In fact, the first words out of Zach Mortazavi’s mouth after recently returning from an intensive legal conference in Washington D.C. was that he felt “100 percent rejuvenated.”

“It’s been a hectic and wild year,” Zach Mortazavi said. “I’ve passed the bar and have had five trials and two appellate cases going on right now. I don’t really have a limit. If there’s a case and there’s something legitimate to argue, I’ll take it to court.”

Zach Mortazavi is a hungry and motivated young lawyer determined to be one of the best family law attorneys in Oklahoma. In pursuit of his goal, he is beginning to emulate some of the actions Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. took earlier in his career.

To further advance his trial skills and legal knowledge, Zach Mortazavi attended the AFCC-AAML 2023 Conference on Advanced Issues in Child Custody: Evaluation, Litigation, and Settlement in Washington D.C. earlier in the fall. Not surprisingly a big focus at the conference was the heightened mental health issues surrounding child custody cases.

Presented by the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), the conference is considered one of the most advanced continuing legal education and professional development opportunities a family law attorney can attend.

“It was an incredible conference,” Zach Mortazavi said. “I met really good attorneys and was able to take away a lot of perspectives and approaches to practicing law that I plan to apply to my practice.”

The seminar also went over several interview strategies including client interviewing and counseling, managing client expectations, analyzing case facts, selecting, and working with a mental health consultant, and preparing for the child custody forensic evaluation.

Another seminar Zach Mortazavi attended during Day 3 of the conference focused on mental health issues surrounding child custody cases.

The seminar titled “Evidentiary Considerations with Mental Health Experts in Child Custody Litigation,” highlighted how the rules of evidence, the reliability and validity of experts’ methods, theories, and opinions, and the relevance and helpfulness of experts’ methods to the court are some of the critical evidentiary issues that judges, lawyers, and experts must consider in performing their roles.

“Mental health pops up a lot in divorce and child custody cases,” Zach Mortazavi said. “It is a big concern and one of the reasons is there are a lot of aggressive divorces in today’s age. Parents really need to shift their focus from themselves to their children. Quite often, kids need more than a parent in a volatile situation, so mental health experts really play a big role today.”

“I feel like my goal was to become an effective family lawyer, and now, with the tools and knowledge I’ve gained in the past year, I feel like I am an effective family law trial lawyer,” Zach Mortazavi said.

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with Zach Mortazavi.

Strategical planning combined with pressure and a unique scenario might as well be the holy trinity for a skilled and motivated trial lawyer.

Fry & Elder attorney Preston Bennett was faced with such a situation when a disheveled client entered his office earlier in the fall.

“She thought she had no parental rights because she was told by someone involved in the situation, she had none,” Preston Bennett said. “I told her she was wrong. She absolutely had parental rights.”

Turns out, the up-and-coming Tulsa attorney was correct. Although a highly unique case, Bennett was able to updend the legal table to degree and win his client parental rights in a same sex divorce child custody case.

Though growing, to say same sex divorce child custody cases are commonplace in the Oklahoma judicial system would be an understatement.

“A really novel issue and a really interesting case,” Preston Bennett said. “The couple had been together for a while when they decided to have a child. The opposing party was artificially inseminated and gave birth while her and my client were together.

Four years into raising the child together, when the biological mother decided to file for divorce. The biological mother who was artificially inseminated by a sperm donor, also claimed that the other parent had no, parental rights.

“The reality is that claim was false, but it also has been 10 years since same-sex marriage became legal in Oklahoma,” Bennett said. “Needless to say, some unique circumstances have occurred since the law was put in place.”

Bennett did some research after initially meeting with his client and quickly came across a 2019 case that mirrored the situation his client was facing.

The case involved two parties, Lori Schnedler and Heather Nicole Lee. The outcome of the initial trial sided with Lee, the biological mother, stating the Schedler has no parental rights.

Schedler and her defense team appealed the verdict and took the case to the Oklahoma Supreme Court which reversed the ruling to award Schnedler parental rights.

“I think that ruling by the Supreme Court really signified, that we are in a new age, and we need to start adapting to fit with present times,” Preston Bennett said. “It takes wins like this for legislators to take action and pass laws.

As Preston Bennett likes to say, “Here at Fry & Elder, we believe in fighting for parents’ rights no matter, race, creed, or gender.”

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation with Preston Bennett.

The Fry & Elder name continues to hold considerable clout in courtrooms throughout Oklahoma and, really, the rest of the United States. The iconic Tulsa law firm was selected for inclusion in the 14^th edition of the United States Best Law Firms® rankings.

The selection to the 2024 Best Law Firms List marks the 10^th consecutive year Fry & Elder has been chosen to further validate Fry & Elder as being one of the best U.S. law firms.

“Just an amazing honor,” Fry & Elder managing partner Simon Harwood said. “To be considered among the best U.S. law firms is quite flattering and, at the same time, very humbling. More than anything, I think it emphasizes the culture we have at this law firm and the commitment we have to one another and our clients.”

Although Fry & Elder has a long history, the firm continues to grow and evolve. The firm is home to nine practicing attorneys – one of whom Preston Bennett recently won a unique child custody case involving a same-sex divorce.

Earlier in the fall, fellow Fry & Elder attorney Zach Mortazavi attended the AFCC-AAML 2023 Conferenceon Advanced Issues in Child Custody: Evaluation, Litigation, and Settlement in Washington D.C.

“One thing I really appreciate about this firm is that we support and challenge one another,” Zach Mortazavi said. “That not only energizes us but also our clients to a degree.”

Best Lawyers® is considered by many to be the oldest and most respected legal publication. Much of that has to do with its comprehensive peer-reviewed selection process that “relies on qualitative and quantitative data, legal skillset, achievements, and client successes collected through a submission process managed by Best Lawyers.”

Best Lawyers CEO Phillip Greer said in a release that “These rankings … serve as a true North Star for the industry. We know that the legal professional – like so many industries today – is undergoing a transformation led by proliferating technology, global demands, and evolving social norms.”

With roots dating back to 1932, Fry & Elder continues to embrace the challenges of remaining an industry leader in the legal world all while continuing to add to its rich history as one of the best U.S. law firms.

Contact Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation.