Oklahoma Law Blog
Is Spanking Considered Child Abuse in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, the question of whether spanking is considered child abuse is a complex one. According to attorney Brian Glass, the severity of the spanking plays a significant role in determining whether it falls under the definition of child abuse. Oklahoma law specifies that anything other than an open hand can be deemed as child abuse. So, if a belt or paddle is used, it can be considered child abuse. Additionally, if the child is left with marks or experiences trauma as a result of the spanking, charges of child abuse can be brought forth. If you find yourself in a child abuse case, it is essential to consult with an attorney. Read more »
What Are the Statutory Qualifications for Guardianship in Oklahoma?
In the state of Oklahoma, there are several statutory qualifications for guardianship. Firstly, a conflict of interest check is conducted to ensure the proposed guardian does not have any financial obligations or ties to the proposed ward. Additionally, any accusations or convictions of sexual abuse, as well as being on child abuse or domestic abuse lists, will disqualify a person from becoming a guardian. Financial solvency is also important, with bankruptcy within the past five years being a disqualifying factor. The proposed guardian must be an adult and not have any incapacities that hinder their ability to fulfill the responsibilities. Lastly, the proposed guardian should not have multiple obligations as a guardian. Meeting these qualifications, among others, will likely result in the granting of guardianship. For more information or assistance with guardianships, contact Chickasha lawyer Brian Glass at chickashalawyer.com. Read more »
Who Qualifies for Guardianship in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, the order of preference for guardianship is specific. Natural parents have priority, but if they are unable to care for the child, the next preference is given to grandparents, both maternal and paternal. Following grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins are considered. The court will prioritize direct relatives of the parents, including siblings and the grandparents' siblings. However, if there is a need for extended family members to be considered, the court will require evidence of necessity and the absence of any other qualifying guardians. For any further questions on guardianship or other legal matters, visit chickshalawyer.com. Read more »
What Are the Next Steps from Immediately Removing a Child from a Home in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, once a child has been removed from their home after an emergency custody hearing, there are several important steps that follow. Attorney Brian Glass explains that the first step is for the parent or guardian to complete an affidavit listing their closest relatives who could potentially provide kinship placement for the child. This is followed by submitting the affidavit to the state court. Within 15 days, the parent must also provide copies of the child's birth certificate and social security card to the Department of Human Services (DHS) for medical and educational purposes. After five days, the parents will be notified of the DHS's decision regarding the child's placement, and a family safety meeting will be held to determine the best placement for the child's well-being. Further steps will then be discussed in another family safety meeting. For more information or legal assistance, you can contact Brian Glass at chickshalawyer.com. Read more »
What Are the First Steps in Filing a Divorce in Oklahoma?
The next issue will be your personal property. This will be personal property that you acquired either before the marriage or during the marriage. These will both be specified within the body of the petition. Next will be any real property, any real property you owned prior to the marriage, or any real property acquired by the couple during the marriage. Other issues that will be addressed are spousal support, which would be alimony, or attorney's fees. These can be addressed in several different ways. You can watch another video I have on alimony. Read more »