Custody
When there is a minor child, subject to the Court having jurisdiction, a provision should be entered as to custody/joint custody/visitation. The three most common matters to be addressed are as follows:
Custody
Custody should be based upon what is in the “best interest” of the child. There are numerous factors that are used by the Court as a guide in making a custody determination.
Joint Custody
By agreement, there is a shared physical custody arrangement and shared decision making on such things as medical care, schools, religious upbringing, discipline and travel of the child.
Visitation
Each Judge has a standard visitation schedule which provides for minimum visitation which is typically alternating weekends, alternating holidays and 4-6 weeks in the summer. In some circumstances a visitation schedule needs to be customized. An example of this would be when the non-custodial parent has a work schedule that is not compatible with standard visitation, such as a rotating shift.
Child Support
Oklahoma Law makes provisions for the payment of child support. Factors commonly used to determine the amount of monthly child support include the following:
- Each parties’ gross monthly income.
- The number of children.
- Who pays for the medical insurance?
- Does the child receive governmental medical benefits (SoonerCare)?
- Is there work-related child care?
- Does the child receive governmental subsidized daycare benefits?
- How many nights does the child reside with each parent?
- Does either parent have any other minor children?
- Does either parent have any other child support obligation(s)?
- Transportation costs incurred to facilitate visitation.
These data points, and possibly others, are inputted into a child support calculator which is used to determine the amount of monthly child support.
General Information
This link provides general information about child support establishment, enforcement and collection. The information found at this link is provided by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS).
DISCLAIMER: The general information contained on this website is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. It is directed to individuals seeking information pertaining to Oklahoma Divorce and Family Law matters. All links on this website are not to be construed as any affiliation with and/or endorsement by the providers of any other website. The use of this website does not create an attorney/client relationship with Jeff Shaw. Every divorce/family law matter is unique, you should not act or rely on the information contained herein without consulting an attorney.