Proven Oklahoma Divorce Lawyers Protect Clients and Their Children

Enid firm offers personalized counsel when a marriage ends

The outcome of a divorce proceeding can affect the lives of spouses and their children for many years to come. At Long, Claypole & Blakley Law, PLC in Enid, our experienced family law attorneys understand that strong, honest legal guidance can make a positive difference when a marriage ends. We assist Oklahoma residents with each aspect of the marriage dissolution process whether you and your spouse agree on key terms, or issues such as custody, property division, child support and alimony are highly contested. Whatever your specific concerns might be, we’ll give you the information and confidence you need to assert your rights and move forward positively.

Experienced family law attorneys carefully explain your options

Making the right decisions at the outset of your divorce gives you the best chance of achieving a favorable result and avoiding needless complications at an already difficult time. We’ll advise on all of your options relating to:

• Filing — Though Oklahoma does grant divorces based on misconduct such as adultery and abandonment, many spouses choose a no-fault Dissolution of Marriage by claiming that they are no longer compatible. The process takes at least 90 days and could take longer depending on how much disagreement exists between the parties.
• Mediation — Even in hostile divorces, terms can often be settled through mediation before a qualified third party. If the spouses are amenable, our attorneys are committed to mediation as a way to reduce the time, expense and aggravation associated with a divorce.
• Collaborative divorce — If both sides are committed to working together and avoiding unnecessary conflict, collaborative divorce might be a worthwhile option. In this process, information is shared, and the parties, along with their lawyers, bring in experts to help them reach consensus.

Working with an accomplished family law attorney can make a substantial difference during and following your divorce. In the initial consultation, we’ll demonstrate how we can handle your particular needs.

Knowledgeable advocates help spouses pursue equitable property division

Our firm assists divorcing clients in negotiations, mediation and litigation relating to marital property division. Oklahoma uses an equitable distribution system, which means that if the matter goes before a judge, assets and debts are allocated based on what the court believes to be fair. The spouses’ shares, however, do not have to be equal. Many aspects of the marriage can come into play, including the income potential of each partner, contributions to the other spouse’s career, and the couple’s lifestyle. Before you determine how to proceed, we’ll look at assets such as bank accounts, stocks, real estate and other holdings to pinpoint each item’s value. We’ll also work to clarify any questions you have as to whether a particular asset would be considered marital or separate property.

Thorough lawyers handle child custody, support and visitation concerns

When a couple shares children, child custody and support decisions should be top priority. Even after a bitter breakup, parents may be expected to communicate and cooperate on key issues for many years to come. That is why we work diligently to set custody and visitation terms that truly reflect the child’s best interests. Achieving agreement between parents works best, but our lawyers are always prepared to go to court when necessary. We also assist with child support matters, including nonpayment cases and situations where the existing terms need to be revised. Rates are usually determined based on a formula that takes into account the parents’ income, time spent in each home and other factors. If you have a question about incorrect or misleading information, we’ll bring your concern to the court’s attention.

Skilled legal counselors provide guidance on alimony matters

If one divorcing spouse requires financial assistance to meet their needs, Oklahoma courts can order alimony on a temporary or permanent basis. It does not matter if a woman or a man is the recipient, but payments are more likely in longer-term marriages where one party took care of the household while the other worked outside the home. Once the divorce case is filed, spousal maintenance is available to address financial concerns during the course of the marriage dissolution process. Upon termination of the marriage, alimony can be awarded on a short-term basis in order to give a supported spouse the chance to build or rebuild their earning ability. After a longer marriage or one where a disability or some other factor prevents a spouse from supporting themselves, long-term alimony might be granted. No matter what side you’re on, we’ll explain what factors might be critical in your situation while advocating for a fair resolution.

Contact a knowledgeable Oklahoma divorce lawyer to arrange a consultation

Long, Claypole & Blakley Law, PLC represents Oklahoma clients in divorce proceedings and related matters such as child support and alimony disputes. Please call 580-599-0191 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation. Our office is in Enid.