Tulsa Child Custody Attorney

Navigating the child custody process can be daunting, especially during emotionally charged times. At Hensley and Associates, PLLC, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the steps involved in your custody case can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty you may be feeling.

Here’s a brief overview of what to expect during the child custody process in Oklahoma:

1. Initial Consultation: Our experienced attorneys will meet with you to discuss your situation, gather information, and outline your options.
2. Filing the Petition: Once you decide to proceed, we will assist you in filing the necessary legal documents with the court to initiate the custody proceedings.
3. Discovery Phase: Both parties will exchange information and evidence relevant to the custody arrangement. This may include financial records, communication logs, and witness statements.
4. Mediation: Many cases are resolved through mediation, where both parents work with a neutral third party to reach an agreement that is in the best interests of the child.
5. Court Hearing: If mediation is unsuccessful, your case may proceed to a court hearing where a judge will make the final custody determination based on the evidence presented.

Each step is crucial, and having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome. We are committed to guiding you through each phase with compassion and expertise, ensuring that your children’s best interests remain at the forefront of every decision.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Child Custody Decisions

Navigating child custody matters can be emotionally challenging for both parents and children. At Hensley and Associates, PLLC, we recognize that each family situation is unique and requires a sensitive approach. It's essential to understand the emotional factors involved in custody arrangements to ensure the well-being of your children throughout the process.

Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

• Child's Best Interests: The primary focus in any custody case should always be the best interests of the child. This includes their emotional, physical, and developmental needs.
• Open Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with your co-parent can significantly reduce stress for your children. Collaborative parenting helps foster a supportive environment.
• Emotional Support: Providing emotional support to your children during this transition is crucial. Consider seeking counseling or support groups to help them cope with the changes.
• Flexible Arrangements: Being open to flexible custody arrangements can lead to better outcomes for your children. Adaptability can ease their anxiety and help them adjust to new routines.
• Professional Guidance: Engaging with experienced child custody attorneys can provide you with the insights and strategies needed to navigate this complex area of family law effectively.

At Hensley and Associates, PLLC, we are committed to helping you understand these emotional aspects while providing strong legal representation. Our goal is to ensure that your children feel secure and supported during this challenging time. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist you in achieving a custody arrangement that prioritizes your children's needs.

In Oklahoma, a child can choose where they would like to live at the age of 12. However, the court will not always grant the child's preference. Instead, the court will consider the child's age, maturity, and the parent's wishes when deciding custody.

If you are going through custody in Oklahoma and you have a child who is 12 or older, you should speak with a Tulsa family law attorney to discuss your options and ensure your child's best interests are protected.

In Oklahoma, a parent is considered unfit if they are unable or unwilling to provide for their child's physical, emotional, or educational needs. This can include parents with a history of abuse or neglect, parents addicted to drugs or alcohol, or parents who are mentally ill.

The following are some of the details that a court will consider when determining whether a parent is unfit:

• The parent's ability to provide for the child's physical needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter.
• The parent's ability to provide for the child's emotional needs, such as love, attention, and support.
• The parent's ability to provide for the child's educational needs, such as enrolling the child in school and providing them with the resources they need to succeed.
• The parent's history of abuse or neglect.
• The parent's addiction to drugs or alcohol.
• The parent's mental illness.
• The children's wants, if they are old enough to express them.

If a judge finds that a parent is unfit, it may award custody of the child to the other parent, a relative, or the state. The court may also order the unfit parent to pay child support.

Our child support attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options and represent you in court in Tulsa if necessary.

Get a Free Consultation With Our Tulsa Child Custody Attorney Today by Contacting Us Online Or Calling (918) 416-4832.