Experienced Pawhuska Divorce Attorney

How Much Does it Cost to Get a Divorce in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, the cost of divorce can vary depending on a number of factors. 

1. If both parties are in agreement about the terms of the divorce, it may be possible to file for an uncontested divorce, which is typically less expensive than a contested divorce. 
2. Hiring a divorce attorney in Osage County will also play a role in the overall cost of the divorce. 
3. There may be court costs and other associated expenses. 
4. The actual cost of a divorce will vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. For example, if there is significant property or assets to be divided, the cost of a divorce will be higher. Similarly, disagreements over child custody or visitation may increase the cost of a divorce.

In general, the more complex the divorce, the higher the cost. It is important to discuss all of these factors with a divorce attorney in Pawhuska to get an accurate estimate of the cost of the divorce.  

Common Divorce Disputes in Osage County, Oklahoma

One of the most contentious steps in a divorce is settling the ensuing disputes, such as:

• Child custody
  • Child custody may provide physical and/or legal custody to one or both parents, depending on how capable the parents are of meeting the child’s best interests. Learn more about child custody on the Family Law page.
• Child support
  • Child support is usually paid by the noncustodial parent (the parent who has less time with the child) to the primary custodial parent. The amount of support will depend on both parents’ incomes, calculated from the Oklahoma Child Support Guidelines.
• Alimony
  • One spouse may also be responsible for paying alimony, or spousal support, for a specified duration to help the other spouse get back on their feet following divorce. A judge will decide alimony based on the supported spouse’s needs and the paying spouse’s ability to provide this support.
• Property and debt division
  • Property division is also an important dispute to resolve, and it includes the division of both assets and debts. Note that Oklahoma follows the equitable distribution rule, which means the marital (community) property will be divided according to what is fair, not necessarily 50/50.

Is Oklahoma a 50/50 State for Divorce

Oklahoma is not a community property state, meaning the marital property is not automatically divided 50/50 between spouses in a divorce case. Oklahoma follows equitable distribution laws when it comes to marital assets. 

The courts will attempt to develop a fair and equitable distribution that may not be a 50/50 split.

Does It Matter Who Files for Divorce First in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, the party who files the original petition for divorce must present their case at trial. Filing early for divorce means paying the filing fee. Being the first to file can offer a strategic advantage, such as: 

• The family court listening to your petition first
• More control over the situation from the beginning
• The chance to make the first impression
• Choice of court location
• Control over the pace of the divorce

Is Oklahoma a No-Fault Divorce State

Oklahoma is a “no-fault” divorce state, which means that either party has the right to end the legal relationship upon demand and without regard to the preference of the other spouse.

Oklahoma allows for both no-fault and fault-based divorces. The difference is whether the court will require one spouse to show that the marriage ends because of the other spouse’s behavior.

How Our Pawhuska Divorce Lawyers Can Help

If you and your spouse are on cooperative terms, you can agree on the above disputes on your own outside of the court. However, if you cannot reach an agreement, you will need to go to court and have the judge make the final decision.

Don’t go through your divorce alone. Our experienced Pawhuska divorce attorneys can make sure your spousal and parental rights are being appropriately protected. Shoemake Law Firm, PLLC can help you navigate your divorce from beginning to end.

Schedule a free consultation with our Pawhuska divorce lawyers today to get started. Representing spouses in Osage County, OK. Give us a call today.