Skilled Divorce Attorneys Serving Cleveland and McClain Counties and Throughout Oklahoma
If you are considering filing for divorce, it is normal to have questions. For over 25 years, our team at Schumacher Law Group has helped clients throughout Oklahoma understand their options. We know how difficult this can be and want to help you through it. We pride ourselves on our hometown atmosphere, where people feel comfortable discussing their family-related concerns.
Our team is prepared to assist you with all matters of divorce proceedings, including:
If you are considering divorce, don’t wait to get legal advice. Our divorce attorneys in Norma, OK, can help, so call (405) 643-4884 or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.
What is a Divorce?
Divorce is the legal process that ends a marriage and divides the responsibilities, rights, and assets of both parties. In Oklahoma, a divorce can be filed on fault-based grounds (such as abandonment, adultery, or cruelty) or on no-fault grounds, typically defined as “incompatibility.” While the concept may seem straightforward, the process often involves difficult negotiations and legal procedures concerning property, finances, and children.
Because divorce can affect every aspect of your life, it is important to have skilled legal counsel by your side. Our Norman divorce attorney can help protect your interests, explain your rights, and guide you toward the most favorable outcome possible.
Common Factors in a Divorce
Every divorce is unique, but several common issues must be addressed before a divorce can be finalized:
Alimony (Spousal Support)
Alimony, or spousal support, is financial assistance that one spouse may be ordered to pay to the other after divorce. Courts in Oklahoma consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning ability, and contributions to the household when determining whether alimony is appropriate.
Child Custody
Custody decisions are often the most sensitive part of a divorce. Oklahoma courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. Custody may be joint (shared) or sole, depending on what the court deems best for the child’s well-being.
Child Support
Child support is calculated based on Oklahoma guidelines that take into account each parent’s income, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child. Ensuring that child support orders are fair and accurate is a critical part of the divorce process.
Property Division
Oklahoma follows an “equitable distribution” rule, meaning property and assets acquired during the marriage are divided fairly—but not always equally. Courts consider factors such as contributions to the marriage, earning capacity, and the needs of each spouse when dividing marital property.
Oklahoma Divorce Laws
Understanding the divorce laws in Oklahoma is key to preparing for the process. Some important aspects include:
Residency Requirement: At least one spouse must have lived in Oklahoma for six months before filing for divorce.
Grounds for Divorce: Oklahoma allows both no-fault divorces (incompatibility) and fault-based divorces (such as adultery, abandonment, or cruelty).
Waiting Period: If children are involved, there is generally a 90-day waiting period before the divorce can be finalized, unless waived by the court.
Property Division: As an equitable distribution state, Oklahoma courts aim to divide assets fairly. Separate property—such as assets owned before marriage or received as inheritance—is usually not divided.
Our Norman divorce lawyer can help ensure you understand these laws and how they apply to your specific situation.
Divorce Proceedings in OK
The divorce process in Oklahoma typically involves several steps:
Filing a Petition for Divorce – One spouse files a petition in the district court of the county where either spouse resides.
Serving the Petition – The other spouse must be served with the divorce papers, providing them with notice of the proceedings.
Response – The served spouse has the opportunity to respond and contest issues such as custody, support, or property division.
Temporary Orders – The court may issue temporary orders to address child custody, child support, or financial responsibilities while the divorce is pending.
Discovery & Negotiation – Both parties exchange financial information and may attempt to negotiate a settlement with or without mediation.
Trial (if necessary) – If an agreement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial, and a judge makes final decisions.
Final Decree of Divorce – Once all issues are resolved, the court issues a final decree legally ending the marriage.
At Schumacher Law Group, our attorneys help clients navigate each of these steps with clear communication and strong advocacy.
Divorce FAQs
How long does a divorce take in Oklahoma?
The timeline varies depending on whether children are involved and whether the divorce is contested. An uncontested divorce without children may be finalized in as little as 10 days, while contested divorces can take months or longer.
What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?
In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all issues, including custody, support, and property division. In a contested divorce, disagreements must be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Can I file for divorce without a lawyer?
While it is possible to file on your own, divorce law is complex, and mistakes can have long-term consequences. Having a skilled Norman divorce lawyer ensures your rights are protected and the process goes as smoothly as possible.
How is child custody determined in Oklahoma?
Custody is determined based on the child’s best interests, taking into account factors such as each parent’s involvement, stability, and the child’s needs. Courts may consider input from children, especially older ones, when making custody decisions.
What happens to debts in a divorce?
Just like assets, marital debts are subject to equitable division. Courts may divide responsibility for debts based on who incurred them and the financial circumstances of each spouse.
Is it possible to modify a divorce order?
Yes, it is possible to modify a divorce order in Oklahoma under certain circumstances. Life changes like relocation, a change in employment, or dramatic shifts in financial circumstances can make an existing divorce order no longer appropriate or practical.
Contact a Norman Divorce Attorney Today
If you are facing divorce, you do not have to go through the process alone. At Schumacher Law Group, we are committed to helping clients in Norman, OK, protect their rights and move forward with confidence. Our experienced divorce attorneys provide personalized guidance and strong legal representation in every case.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a dedicated Norman divorce lawyer who will stand by your side every step of the way.
"Tracy Schumacher is a remarkable attorney! Her years of experience on the bench show as she can craft an effective legal strategy while being up to speed on the latest case law."
- Gabriel B.
"At a time when you and your family need security most, Schumacher Law Group is the best possible choice for legal representation in Cleveland and surrounding counties."
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