Putnam Law Office guides Oklahoma City clients through every stage of divorce with personalized legal strategies. Call 405-724-7701 today to schedule a consultation with an experienced Oklahoma City divorce lawyer.
Divorce is one of life’s most personal and difficult transitions. Beyond the emotional weight, it requires a series of legal and financial decisions that can shape a person’s future for years to come. For residents of Oklahoma City, whether living downtown, in Edmond, or across Moore and Yukon, the question is not just how to end a marriage, but how to do it right.
Oklahoma law provides several options for dissolving a marriage, including traditional court litigation, uncontested divorce, mediation, and collaborative approaches. An Oklahoma City divorce options lawyer can help explain the unique benefits, timelines, and emotional demands of each option. Choosing the right path depends on the level of agreement between spouses, the complexity of shared assets, and whether children are involved.
Putnam Law Office assists families in Oklahoma in exploring all possible avenues for resolution. Led by Attorney Brian Putnam, a decorated military veteran and native Oklahoman, our firm offers structured and honest legal support to help clients move forward with clarity and confidence.
Understanding Divorce Options in Oklahoma
Oklahoma law acknowledges that no two divorces are the same. The type of divorce a person pursues will depend on their situation, relationship dynamics, and financial and parental circumstances.
Contested Divorce
A contested divorce occurs when spouses can’t come to an agreement on important issues, such as dividing property, determining child custody, or establishing alimony. In such situations, the case is taken to court, and a judge intervenes to make the final decisions. The judge reviews the evidence and follows established legal guidelines to ensure a fair and lawful outcome.
When a contested divorce makes sense:
- There are complex financial assets to divide.
- One party suspects that the other has hidden income or property.
- Child custody is disputed.
- Mediation attempts have failed.
Uncontested Divorce
When both spouses agree on all major issues, the process becomes simpler and faster. A settlement agreement is submitted to the court, avoiding lengthy hearings.
When it makes sense:
- Both parties are cooperative.
- There are few or no shared assets or debts.
- Both spouses are committed to a peaceful resolution.
Mediated Divorce
Mediation allows couples to work with a neutral third party to reach a mutual agreement. The mediator doesn’t represent either side but helps facilitate productive discussion.
Benefits:
- Reduces cost and stress
- Keeps personal details private
- Encourages communication and co-parenting in cases with children
Collaborative Divorce
A newer approach in Oklahoma, collaborative divorce, involves both spouses committing to resolving issues outside of court through negotiation and transparency.
Benefits:
- Minimizes hostility
- Encourages customized solutions
- Often preserves family relationships, especially important for co-parenting
Understanding these choices and their implications can help Oklahoma residents protect their interests while minimizing emotional strain.
Oklahoma Divorce Laws and Grounds for Divorce
Divorce in Oklahoma is governed primarily by Title 43 of the Oklahoma Statutes. Couples can file for either fault-based or no-fault divorce.
No-Fault Divorce
One of the most common grounds for divorce in Oklahoma is incompatibility. It does not require proof of wrongdoing, only that the marriage cannot continue.
Fault-Based Grounds
When necessary, a spouse may allege one of the following reasons:
- Abandonment for one year or more
- Adultery
- Extreme cruelty
- Fraudulent contract
- Habitual drunkenness
- Imprisonment for a felony
- Insanity lasting five years or more
Residency Requirement
To file for divorce in Oklahoma, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for six months and in the filing county for 30 days before submitting the petition.
Waiting Period
- If no minor children are involved, the court may grant the divorce after a 10-day waiting period.
- If minor children are involved, a 90-day waiting period applies unless the court waives it for good cause (such as domestic violence or mutual agreement).
These timelines govern the dissolution of marriage in the state of Oklahoma. Our team at the Putnam Law Office guides clients through these statutory steps, ensuring that all documentation, filings, and legal procedures align with court requirements.
Key Issues in Oklahoma Divorces
Each divorce, contested or not, must address several critical issues under Oklahoma family law.
Property Division
Oklahoma follows the equitable distribution standard, meaning marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily equally. Factors may include the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and their financial circumstances.
Marital property typically includes:
- Real estate acquired during marriage
- Retirement accounts and pensions
- Vehicles, business assets, and savings
Separate property, such as gifts or inheritances, usually remains with the original owner.
Child Custody and Visitation
When children are involved, the court’s focus shifts to their best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to provide stability, emotional support, and consistent care. Oklahoma courts favor joint custody when possible, promoting ongoing relationships with both parents.
Child Support
Child support is calculated according to the Oklahoma Child Support Guidelines. The formula considers parental income, the number of children, and healthcare or daycare costs.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Alimony may be awarded to ensure fairness when there’s a significant income gap. Temporary or rehabilitative support is common, especially when one spouse leaves the workforce to manage the home or raise children.
Understanding these components helps clients identify their priorities and negotiate agreements that safeguard both their rights and their children’s futures.
How Putnam Law Office Supports Clients
Every family’s story is unique, and every divorce requires its own path. Putnam Law Office helps clients evaluate all available options and select the most suitable legal strategy for their specific situation.
Guidance from Start to Finish
Our founder, attorney Brian Putnam, offers grounded, fact-based guidance rooted in Oklahoma law and real-world experience. As a Del City native, decorated veteran, and community advocate, he brings a disciplined and compassionate approach to family law.
Clear Assessment of Options
Each client’s situation is carefully reviewed to determine whether an uncontested, mediated, collaborative, or contested divorce is the best fit for their needs. The firm’s approach prioritizes resolution that protects both finances and emotional health.
Skilled Negotiation and Settlement
When settlement is possible, experienced negotiation helps preserve privacy and reduce costs. In collaborative or mediated cases, clients benefit from structured communication and goal-oriented solutions.
Court Representation When Needed
In contested divorces, preparation and precision are key. An experienced Oklahoma City divorce lawyer at Putnam Law Office can represent clients in the Oklahoma County District Court and surrounding jurisdictions, presenting clear, evidence-backed arguments that align with statutory requirements.
Child-Focused Solutions
Divorce can be hardest on children. The firm can help parents establish custody and visitation plans that protect relationships and provide stability. Support calculations and parenting plans are crafted with future adaptability in mind.
Ongoing Support After Divorce
Legal needs often continue after a decree is entered. Modifications for custody, support, or alimony may be necessary as circumstances evolve. Our legal team remains a trusted resource for ongoing guidance and enforcement.
Putnam Law Office is dedicated to helping Oklahoma families navigate divorce with integrity, structure, and care, offering personalized solutions that foster lasting stability.
Divorce Process in Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma divorce process follows a structured set of steps that vary depending on whether the case is contested or uncontested.
Step 1: Filing the Petition for Divorce
The process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the Oklahoma County District Court. Residents of nearby areas, such as Moore, Norman, or Yukon, may file in Cleveland or Canadian County. This document officially starts the divorce proceedings.
Step 2: Requesting Temporary Court Orders (If Needed)
Courts may issue temporary orders for custody, visitation, child support, or alimony to provide stability during the proceedings. These orders help maintain stability and protect the rights of both parties until the case is resolved.
Step 3: Exchanging Financial Information and Disclosures
Both parties exchange financial information, including tax returns, pay stubs, property records, and debts. Oklahoma law requires complete financial transparency to ensure a fair division of assets and support arrangements.
Step 4: Attempting Mediation or Negotiation
Before going to trial, most judges in Oklahoma encourage couples to try mediation or negotiation. This step enables both parties to resolve issues, such as property division, custody, and support, more privately and cost-effectively.
Step 5: Proceeding to Trial If No Agreement is Reached
If mediation fails or the parties cannot reach an agreement, the case proceeds to trial. Both sides present evidence and testimony, and the judge applies Oklahoma law to decide matters like property division, custody, and financial obligations.
Step 6: Obtaining the Final Decree of Divorce
Once all issues are resolved, the court issues a Final Decree of Divorce. This official order outlines the judge’s decisions and finalizes each party’s rights and responsibilities moving forward.
Step 7: Seeking Modification or Enforcement After Divorce
After the divorce is finalized, either party may request a modification if there are significant changes in circumstances, such as changes in income, relocation, or a child’s evolving needs. The court also handles enforcement if one party fails to comply with the decree.
Local Considerations
The Oklahoma County District Court (320 Robert S. Kerr Ave.) handles the majority of family law cases in central Oklahoma. Neighboring counties, including Cleveland and Canadian, follow the same statutes but may vary slightly in procedure.
Putnam Law Office’s familiarity with these local courts ensures smooth navigation of filings, hearings, and procedural requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Oklahoma?
The length of a divorce in Oklahoma depends on the case. If uncontested and without children, it can be finalized in as little as 10 days. Cases with children typically require a 90-day waiting period. Contested divorces may take several months.
Do both spouses have to agree to get a divorce?
No, a spouse does not have to agree for a divorce to proceed in Oklahoma. Oklahoma allows one spouse to file even if the other disagrees, as long as the statutory requirements are met.
How is property divided in Oklahoma divorces?
Oklahoma divides marital property using the equitable distribution standard. The court considers contributions, income, and fairness.
What happens to the family home in an Oklahoma divorce?
In an Oklahoma divorce, the family home may be sold, and the proceeds are divided between the spouses. Alternatively, one spouse may keep the house and compensate the other with assets of equal value.
Can parents share child custody equally in the state of Oklahoma?
Yes, Oklahoma courts may award joint custody or shared parenting time when it serves the child’s best interests. However, the law does not presume that joint custody is always the best arrangement. Judges consider the child’s needs, each parent’s involvement, and the ability to co-parent effectively.
What happens if a spouse hides assets during divorce?
If a spouse hides assets during a divorce, the court can issue sanctions or reopen the property division. Attorneys can use discovery tools and subpoenas to locate concealed property and ensure a fair outcome.
How are retirement accounts divided in an Oklahoma divorce?
Retirement accounts in an Oklahoma divorce are divided through a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). This court-approved document ensures the division complies with federal and state laws.
Can I get divorced in Oklahoma without going to court?
Yes, spouses in Oklahoma can finalize a divorce without a court appearance if they reach a full agreement on all issues through mediation or a settlement agreement. The judge reviews and approves the final divorce decree without requiring a hearing.
How does Oklahoma divide debts in a divorce?
Oklahoma courts divide marital debts in a fair and equitable way. The judge considers who incurred the debt, who benefited from it, and the financial circumstances of each spouse.
Do military families follow different divorce rules in Oklahoma?
Yes, military families in Oklahoma, such as those with a spouse stationed at Tinker Air Force Base, are entitled to special protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). An experienced local attorney ensures compliance with both state and federal laws.
Call Putnam Law Office Today
Divorce is not the end; it is the beginning of a new phase of life. Choosing the right legal path can determine whether that transition feels chaotic or controlled. For those facing divorce in Oklahoma City or nearby communities, such as Edmond, Norman, and Yukon, experienced legal guidance is crucial for making informed, confident decisions.
Putnam Law Office is dedicated to helping clients understand their options, ranging from uncontested settlements to complex contested cases. We prioritize protecting both your financial stability and family relationships. Attorney Brian Putnam brings years of experience, leadership, and community trust to deliver focused representation based on Oklahoma values.
Clarity begins with a conversation. Call 405-724-7701 today to schedule a confidential consultation with a dedicated Oklahoma City Divorce Options Lawyer. Discover which divorce process best fits your goals and start building the foundation for a secure, peaceful future.
