Children are a precious product of human relationships, so it is not surprising that the most emotionally-draining issue of a divorce is often custody issues. With that in mind, our Tulsa child custody lawyers at Fry & Elder would like nothing more than to help you get through any Tulsa child custody issues you might be experiencing.
Below are the answers to some commonly asked questions about Tulsa child custody, sole custody, and joint custody.
How do sole custody and joint custody differ from one another?
In Oklahoma, sole custody means that the parent granted sole custody can make major decisions in regards to the child such as what school or what doctor a child might see but must consult with the other parent before making such decisions. Oklahoma law still provides that the parent not having custody should have access to basic child-related information, including medical and academic records.
Joint custody differs from sole custody in that each parent has equal say in major decisions affecting their child’s well-being and best interests. If there is a conflict that arises, the two parents may seek out a mediator or parenting coordinator to help break the tie or the parents could end up in court and have the judge make a ruling.
How good are my odds of gaining custody of my children?
This will largely depend on the nature and facts of your case.
In terms of child custody in Oklahoma, there is not a presumption for either sole custody or joint custody. Custody is instead based on the best interests of the children.
Joint custody may be a possibility if the parents are able to effectively communicate with one another and co-parent their children together.
Does my child’s desire to live with one parent over another carry any weight in Tulsa child custody cases?
Typically, the judge will consider the child’s preference so long as the child is at least 12 years old. Though it is sometimes still considered, if a child is younger than 12, there is a chance that the judge might not consider the child’s preference. However, a child’s preference is only one of many factors the judge will consider when determining custody.
After child custody is awarded, can it ever change or be altered?
Yes. If it is in the child’s best interest, Oklahoma law allows for child custody to be modified. Please review our page and blog on reasons to request a child custody modification.
Does joint custody mean the visitation time is equally shared?
Joint custody and sole custody are parenting and decision-making concepts, and neither have anything to do with parenting time.
Tulsa Child Custody Lawyers Who Make a Difference
If you have questions about the care and custody of your children, we encourage you to contact the Tulsa child custody lawyers at Fry & Elder today to set up a personal consultation. Our lawyers are some of the most highly regarded and experienced child custody lawyers not only in the state of Oklahoma, but in the United States.
The firm has been 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:
- A 2019 Best Lawyers® Selection
- One of only 19 attorneys in the state to be a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
- Best Lawyers® 2016 Lawyer of the Year for Family Law in Oklahoma
- Two attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers®
- Two attorneys AV® Preeminent Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®
- A 2017 Significant Sig Award Winner
Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa today to set up a personal consultation with a distinguished and accomplished Tulsa child custody attorney.