Before you can file, you or your spouse must have lived in Oklahoma for at least 6 months, and in the county where you file for at least 30 days. If you meet that, you can start the process.
Oklahoma is a "no-fault" state, so divorce may be based on incompatibility, which is what most couples use.
You start by filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the district court in your county. It states what you are asking for, including custody, support, and how to divide property and debt.
Your spouse must be formally notified, which is called service. They then have time to respond. If both of you agree on the terms, an uncontested path is faster and less expensive.
Oklahoma has a waiting period before a divorce can be final. When there are minor children involved, the waiting period is 90 days before a Judge may sign a final order. Without minor children and by agreement, it can be shorter.
Most cases have a temporary order entered very early in the process to determine custody, support, or use of the home while the case is pending and prior to a final order. Either side can ask the court for temporary orders.
Most divorces settle without trial, often through mediation. If you and your spouse agree on the terms, the judge can approve them. If you cannot agree, the case goes to trial and the judge decides.
An uncontested divorce can finish shortly after the waiting period. A contested divorce takes longer. Costs depend on how much the two sides disagree.
You are not required to have one, but decisions about your children and your finances are hard to undo. A lawyer helps you avoid mistakes, protects what matters most to you, and prevents emotions from affecting your outcome.
If you are considering divorce in the Tulsa area, we can walk you through your options. Call 918-600-1925 or request a consultation through our website.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different. For advice about your situation, speak with a licensed Oklahoma attorney.
