Oklahoma City Divorce Lawyer

OKC Divorce Attorneys Committed to Providing Compassionate Representation

Divorce can be a difficult experience for families and, in some cases, tensions can run so high that spouses may find themselves in a high conflict divorce. At Simmons & Associates, our Oklahoma City divorce attorneys are prepared to assist you with your high conflict divorce and are committed to assisting our clients as they navigate one of life’s most challenging family law matters.

Our Oklahoma family lawyers want to help resolve your case, protect your interests, and start a new chapter in your life. We understand how emotionally taxing this situation can be and will provide the strong legal support you need to get through this.

With more than 65 years of collective legal experience on our side, you can rest assured that your case will be in good hands with our divorce attorney in Oklahoma City.

For the personalized attention you deserve, reach out to our family law office today at (405) 591-2284 to schedule an initial consultation with one of our OKC divorce lawyers to get started on your case.

Do I Need a Divorce Lawyer in OKC? Can’t I Do It on My Own?

You always have the option of representing yourself in a divorce. But by doing so you run the risk of not having all of your bases covered and the marriage ending in a way that isn’t to your benefit, especially if your spouse has a powerful Oklahoma divorce attorney on his or her side.

The Oklahoma City lawyers at Simmons & Associates, PLLC are dedicated to all of our clients’ best interests, and we won’t rest until your case is completed. Our Oklahoma divorce lawyers approach every case as if it will be solved peacefully, but are still prepared to take things to trial as needed.

Our goal is to guide our clients through this difficult time in their lives so they can come out the other end feeling empowered and optimistic.

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 case since it is a much simpler process.

However, if you choose to file for a fault-based case, 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

Oklahoma Divorce Process

Most 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 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 attorneys will be happy to explain further.

Key Family Law Issues in an Oklahoma Divorce

There are several family law matters in a divorce that must be resolved before the process can be finalized.

Our Oklahoma City family lawyer can assist you with all the potential issues you may face as you dissolve your marriage, including:

• Asset and debt division
• Child custody and visitation
• Child support
• Spousal support

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

If you believe your situation is a high net worth or high conflict divorce, speak with our experienced Oklahoma City family law attorneys immediately.

Dealing with a High Conflict Divorce in Oklahoma

A high conflict divorce is about more than simply disagreeing with your spouse on the terms of your decree. In a high conflict divorce, your spouse may become emotionally or physically abusive, try to contact you through a high volume of calls and texts, or disrupt the process with unnecessary delays. In some cases, one spouse may even request an emergency protection order or a restraining order.

Having a high conflict divorce attorney in OKC on your side will help you strategize more effectively amidst this heated situation. Our Oklahoma City lawyers understand that, in a high conflict case, a hostile spouse can often be unpredictable, which is why our team is prepared for anything. We will try to help you negotiate a resolution and, if necessary, fiercely represent you throughout the litigation process.

Do not let your high conflict divorce destabilize you. As stressful and overwhelming as the situation can be, it is important to keep in mind that nothing is official until the court renders a decision.

High Net Worth Divorce in Oklahoma City

Divorce is rarely an easy experience for anyone, but it is often more challenging for those with a high net worth, which presents many unique challenges. The more assets a couple has, the more difficult it can be to account for every item, which can make it difficult to equitably divide marital property. At Simmons & Associates in Oklahoma City, our family law team will fight for your best interests and ensure you receive your fair share of marital assets as you dissolve your marriage.

What is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, property is divided based on each spouse’s contribution to the marital property. Oklahoma courts use the “equitable property” principle to divide property. All assets acquired during the marriage are presumed to be marital property.

Financial Planning Post-Divorce: Securing Your Future

Divorce can significantly impact your financial situation, making it essential to focus on planning for your future. At Simmons & Associates, we understand that navigating the financial aspects of divorce is just as crucial as the legal proceedings. Our experienced team can guide you through the complexities of asset division, alimony, and child support to help you establish a solid financial foundation moving forward.

Key considerations for post-divorce financial planning include:

• Budgeting: Creating a new budget that reflects your changed circumstances is vital. Our experts can assist you in identifying your income, expenses, and savings goals.
• Retirement Planning: Assess how your divorce affects your retirement savings and what steps you need to take to secure your financial future.
• Insurance Needs: Evaluate your insurance policies, including health, life, and property insurance, to ensure you have adequate coverage after your divorce.
• Tax Implications: Understand how your divorce settlement may impact your tax situation, including filing status and potential deductions.
• Investment Strategies: Learn how to manage and invest your assets wisely to grow your wealth over time.

By proactively addressing these financial considerations, you can reduce stress and focus on rebuilding your life after divorce. Contact Simmons & Associates today to schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable team and take the first step towards a secure financial future.

The Unique Obstacles of a High Net Worth Divorce

Oftentimes, high net worth divorces involve complex assets, such as businesses or international investments. Due to these complexities, it is crucial to consult with financial experts as soon as possible to get a baseline from which you can begin negotiating your case. Understanding the value of one’s marital assets is especially important for those who were not particularly involved with their household finances, making it exceptionally easy for their spouse to hide assets.

Additionally, since substantial assets are involved, child support and spousal support are typically calculated differently in such cases. Although child support awards are generally capped, in a high net worth case, it is possible to receive an award above the cap. Moreover, as is the case with property division, accurate valuation is crucial to ensure the child support and spousal support orders are fair.

Our team of legal professionals and experts will provide the personalized attention, support, and tailored solutions you need to overcome the hurdles of your high net worth case, so you can secure a favorable outcome.

Reach Out to Our Divorce Lawyers in OKC to Discuss Your Case!

If you are planning to dissolve your marriage, the experienced legal team at Simmons & Associates in Oklahoma City can provide the strong legal support you need smoothly navigate your case. We understand how difficult these Oklahoma City divorce matters can be and will help you achieve your goals, so you can start a new and brighter chapter in your life.

Call our law office today at (405) 591-2284 to schedule an initial consultation with one of our family lawyers in OKC to get started on your case.