100% Dedication to Your Case

Facing divorce or family law issues can be extremely overwhelming. Emotions like anxiety, fear, and anger can make it challenging to focus on what's best for you and your family. But you don't have to face it alone. At Bennett Vernier, we offer clarity and guidance when it comes to family law matters. Our experienced team of lawyers will work closely with you to understand your goals and find a balanced, practical, and affordable solution. Whether it's child custody, adoption, or guardianship, we're here to help you navigate the legal process and make informed decisions. Count on our well-prepared team to navigate the practical, financial, and legal challenges you face, providing unwavering dedication to your family law needs.

Our Process

In simple terms, our process is designed to:

• Save you money;

• Achieve the best results;

• In a timely manner.

Do I Need a Divorce Lawyer in Oklahoma? Can Do It on My Own?

Yes, it is possible to represent yourself in a divorce, but there are risks involved. Without the guidance of a knowledgeable Oklahoma divorce attorney, you may overlook important details and end up with an unfavorable outcome. It is especially crucial if your spouse has strong legal representation. Consider seeking professional help to ensure your rights and interests are protected throughout the divorce process.

What is the Process for Getting Divorced in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma offers both fault-based and no-fault divorce grounds. Most couples tend to file for a no-fault divorce since it is a simpler process. However, if you choose to file for a fault-based divorce, you can opt for one of the following grounds:

• Adultery

• Habitual drunkenness

• Abandonment for at least a year

• Extreme cruelty

• Imprisonment for a felony conviction

• Fraudulent contract

• Insanity for at least a period of 5 years

• Gross neglect of duty

Before you can file for divorce, you must first meet the state’s residency requirements. You or your spouse must have lived in Oklahoma for at least 6 months and one of you must have lived in the county where you plan on filing for at least 30 days.

Oklahoma Divorce Process

Most divorce proceedings go through a similar series of steps, though of course each situation is uniquely different. A divorce in Oklahoma usually begins when a Petition of Dissolution is filed by one spouse in the proper jurisdiction. The other spouse is then served with a copy of the petition, a Summons and an Automatic Temporary Injunction, which defines what can or cannot happen pending further orders from the court.

The other party must then file an Answer or counter petition within 20 days of being served. Often an Application for Temporary Orders will be submitted, which gives time to resolve issues between the parties until a final Decree can be entered. The discovery process follows, and a settlement, if possible, is reached shortly after. If a settlement can’t be reached, a trial on the merits of the case will be presented before the assigned judge.

The length of the trial depends on the issues involved, but most take anywhere from one day to one week. A finalized Decree of Dissolution is the end result, finalizing the divorce and laying out the rules for child support, spousal support, visitation, and division of property or other necessary actions.

What Is “Discovery” in the Divorce Process?

Discovery is the process of learning everything we can about your case by asking the other side questions they have to answer, or requesting documents. The process is often the most time consuming of your case, and may involve depositions which are sworn interviews taken by us, or the other side. We will make sure you’re fully aware of what is happening in the discovery process, and you will be asked to participate and assist in preparing and responding to all discovery requests. If you have additional questions, your assigned OKC divorce attorneys will be happy to explain further.

Key Issues in an Oklahoma Divorce

There are several matters in a divorce that must be resolved before the process can be finalized. Our Oklahoma City divorce lawyers can assist you with all the potential issues you may face as you dissolve your marriage, including:

• Asset and debt division

• Child custody

• Child support

• Alimony

Even if you and your spouse are in agreement on all of these matters, it is essential to seek the advice of a divorce attorney in Oklahoma City to ensure you do not agree to anything that goes against your interests.

Divorce Asset Protection

Divorce is one of the most financially riskiest experiences most people encounter. Many clients feel guilt and may give up too much of their assets, while angry spouses may seek to financially punish their soon-to-be ex. A skilled divorce lawyer plays a crucial role in protecting their client's assets by utilizing legal tools and conducting a thorough analysis of assets to ensure a fair property division.