Every person considering a divorce must understand the processes involved. Let us walk through the divorce process in Tulsa, Oklahoma, providing clarity for those involved. At Allen Law Firm, PLLC, we believe in empowerment through knowledge.
The Initial Step: Filing the Divorce Petition
The divorce process begins with a petition. One spouse files the petition at the local court, which is a formal request to end the marriage. The petition includes several critical pieces of information:
- Name and address of both parties
- Reason for divorce – Oklahoma follows “no-fault” or “fault” grounds for divorce
- List of shared and separate assets
- Details about childcare and the plaintiff’s proposed arrangements
- Proposed division of estate and marital assets
Serving the Divorce Papers
Once the plaintiff files the petition, they must serve the divorce papers on the other partner. This step ensures the partner is aware of the divorce request. The person served has 20 days to respond to the petition.
Responding to the Divorce Petition
The person served (respondent) has a unique purpose; they can agree or disagree with the claims. Agreeing advances the divorce proceedings, while disagreeing can lead to a contested divorce, possibly extending the duration of the divorce process.
Temporary Orders
In some scenarios, a spouse might need immediate rulings concerning child custody, spousal support, or property usage. The spouse can request temporary orders from the court, providing interim relief during the divorce process.
Discovery
Discovery involves an in-depth examination of each other’s financial affairs, aiming to collect beneficial information for equitable asset distribution, alimony, and child support.
Settlement Negotiations and Mediation
Parties often try to resolve their issues through negotiations or mediation. Known as Alternative Dispute Resolution, these methods can lead to a quicker, less contentious divorce.
Divorce Trial
If both parties cannot agree, the case progresses to trial. During the trial, both parties present their arguments with evidence and witness testimonies.
Issuance of Divorce Decree
The judge rules on unresolved matters and issues the divorce decree, finalizing the divorce process.
When understanding the divorce process in Tulsa, Oklahoma, it’s vital to have the right legal support. Hiring a knowledgeable lawyer such as those at Allen Law Firm, PLLC, can help you navigate this process smoothly.