Child Custody Lawyers in Tulsa, Oklahoma in Tulsa County
Going through any legal matter is difficult, and disputes involving the care and access of children often carry an added emotional burden. These situations can affect every part of your life, from your daily routine to your long-term plans. Parents want an attorney who will prioritize their rights, provide steady guidance, and help protect their children’s well-being. When you are facing a complex or tense custody situation, you deserve a lawyer in Tulsa, Oklahoma who will advocate for you, explain each step clearly, and help you make informed decisions during a challenging time.
At Stange Law Firm, PC, our attorneys recognize that the children involved in your case are the central focus. Custody matters can be stressful, uncertain, and deeply personal, and having supportive legal counsel can make the process more manageable. If you choose to work with our firm for your Tulsa, Oklahoma custody matter in Tulsa County, we will keep you informed, answer your questions, and stand with you from the beginning of your case through its final resolution.
In some situations, reaching a settlement is the most practical path forward, especially when both parties are willing to work toward an arrangement that reflects the needs of the children. However, custody disputes can become difficult when the parents disagree about what arrangement best supports the children’s stability, safety, or daily routine. When settlement is not possible, litigation may be required. If that happens, our attorneys are prepared to present your position clearly and effectively, working to ensure that your voice is heard both in negotiations and in the courtroom. Our goal is to help you pursue an outcome that supports your rights and promotes a secure environment for your children.
Tulsa, Oklahoma Child Custody Attorneys Ready to Guide You in Custody Matters in Tulsa County
You can also learn more about the Tulsa County Court system by visiting the following pages:
- Tulsa County Circuit Clerk’s Office: More information can be found here
- Tulsa County Court Rules: Access the rules at this link
- Tulsa County Domestic Relations Law Forms: Find the forms you need here
- Tulsa, Oklahoma Government: Learn more about the local government here
- Tulsa County Courthouse: Find the courthouse address and directions here
Child Custody in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Child custody matters in Tulsa, Oklahoma are governed by Oklahoma family law and commonly arise in divorce cases, paternity actions, and proceedings to modify an existing custody order. When parents are unable to reach an agreement regarding custody and parenting time, the court will enter an order designed to protect the child’s best interests and promote stability in the child’s life.
How Oklahoma Courts Determine Child Custody
Oklahoma courts decide child custody based on what arrangement best serves the child’s overall welfare. In making this determination, judges may consider a variety of factors, including:
The wishes of each parent regarding custody and parenting time
The child’s relationship with each parent and other significant individuals
The child’s emotional, educational, and physical needs
Each parent’s ability to provide a safe, stable, and nurturing environment
Which parent is more likely to encourage a continuing relationship between the child and the other parent
The mental and physical health of the parents and the child
Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect
The child’s preferences, when the court determines the child is of sufficient age and maturity
The stability of each parent’s home and daily routine
Oklahoma law does not automatically favor one parent over the other based on gender or income.
Legal Custody and Physical Custody in Oklahoma
Child custody in Oklahoma consists of two primary components: legal custody and physical custody. These may be awarded jointly or solely depending on the circumstances of the case.
Legal Custody
Legal custody refers to the authority to make major decisions affecting the child’s upbringing, including education, medical care, and religious instruction.
Joint legal custody allows both parents to share decision-making responsibilities
Sole legal custody gives one parent primary authority to make major decisions
Physical Custody
Physical custody determines where the child primarily lives and how parenting time is divided between the parents.
Joint physical custody allows the child to spend substantial time with both parents, though parenting time does not have to be equal
Sole physical custody places the child primarily with one parent, with parenting time granted to the other
Courts may order any combination of legal and physical custody that best serves the child’s needs.
Parenting Time and Visitation
Oklahoma courts generally encourage custody arrangements that allow children to maintain frequent and meaningful contact with both parents when it is safe and appropriate. Parenting time schedules vary based on the child’s age, needs, and family circumstances.
A parent without primary physical custody is typically entitled to reasonable visitation unless the court finds that such contact would endanger the child’s physical or emotional well-being.
Custody Issues Involving Unmarried Parents
When a child is born to unmarried parents, the mother is generally awarded custody unless and until a court orders otherwise. A father must establish legal paternity before seeking custody or parenting time through the court. Once paternity is established, either parent may request a custody determination.
Domestic Violence and Child Safety
Oklahoma courts must consider any evidence or allegations of domestic violence or abuse when making custody decisions. If safety concerns exist, the court may limit parenting time, require supervised visitation, or impose other protective measures to safeguard the child.
Modifying a Child Custody Order
Child custody orders may be modified if there has been a material change in circumstances since the prior order and the requested modification would be in the child’s best interests. Custody modifications are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Child Custody Cases in Tulsa County
Families in Tulsa address child custody matters under Oklahoma family law through the courts serving Tulsa County. Parents are typically required to submit a parenting plan, and the court may encourage mediation or other dispute-resolution options when appropriate. The court’s primary focus remains on establishing a custody arrangement that supports the child’s long-term stability, safety, and well-being.
Contact Tulsa, Oklahoma Child Custody Lawyers in Tulsa County
If you are going through a custody matter in Tulsa County and want to speak with a custody attorney in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Stange Law Firm, PC is ready to assist you. You can contact us online or call us at the number below to schedule your consultation.
Tulsa County (Tulsa), Oklahoma Office (918-723-2008) | 6660 S. Sheridan Road, Suite 240, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133
