At one time, the law virtually guaranteed that mothers would gain full physical custody of the children, in most cases. Oklahoma courts now recognize that either parent may be the best potential caregiver. Whether custody is determined through negotiations, or if a judge decides, parents need experienced legal advice and support.
No divorce issues are more important than ensuring the best interests of the children. Parents can benefit from the services provided by child custody attorneys in Oklahoma City, who are experienced with the local court system, judges, and opposing attorneys involved in the case.
The Oklahoma House made the news in March 2011 when they reversed a 2010 child custody law granting joint custody of children born out of wedlock to both parents. The 2010 decision resulted in significant adverse effects to the support of some children, and it illustrates the importance of considering the potential long-term results of every child custody decision.
Full parental control through sole custody is not necessary. The court can combine many flexible custody options to ensure the best interests of the children—and the entire family. The following are just a few examples:
- Joint physical custody: Particularly when both parents live near each other and within the same school district, children can periodically move from one home to the other to allow each parent to provide primary daily support without otherwise affecting the routine of the children.
- Joint legal custody: Regardless of who has physical custody, joint legal custody ensures both parents work together to make all-important decisions pertaining to medical care, education, and other issues.
- Sole custody with liberal visitation privileges: While visitation does not typically provide the daily contact afforded by physical custody, parents ensure children have frequent contact with their parents by negotiating a visitation agreement that exceeds the minimum requirement of the court.
Experienced child custody attorneys help couples find creative ways to put their personal differences aside and provide a united front for their children. If the courts must get involved in these important decisions, attorneys develop effective cases on behalf of their clients.
