Understanding Child Custody

Tulsa Child Custody Attorney

Experienced Legal Guidance to Protect What Matters Most

When child custody becomes a legal issue, emotions run high. At Eggert Law, we help parents in Tulsa County and throughout Oklahoma protect their children’s well-being and preserve their parental rights. Whether you are pursuing sole custody, joint custody, or modifying an existing order, our firm provides guidance with both strength and care.

We know these matters are deeply personal. That is why we treat every case with respect, discretion, and a firm commitment to the best interests of the child.

Call (539) 252-9364 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

Understanding Custody in Oklahoma

Oklahoma courts encourage solutions that involve both parents, but the guiding principle is always the best interests of the child. Equal parenting time may be considered, but it is not automatic. If shared custody isn’t appropriate due to safety, distance, or other concerns, the court may order a different arrangement.

Types of Custody in Oklahoma:

• Legal Custody – The right to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing (education, health care, religion).
• Physical Custody – Determines where the child lives and how time is shared.

Custody can be structured as:

• Sole Custody – One parent has both legal and physical custody.
• Joint Legal Custody – Both parents share decision-making.
• Joint Physical Custody – The child spends significant time with each parent.
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How Custody is Decided

If parents agree, they may present a parenting plan to the court. If not, the court will decide based on:

• The child’s emotional and physical needs
• Each parent’s ability to meet those needs
• The child’s relationship with each parent
• Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance abuse
• The home environment of each parent
• The child’s preferences (depending on age and maturity)

Judges do not favor one parent over the other. Each case is carefully reviewed to ensure stability and the child’s best interests.

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What Happens During the Custody Process

Navigating a custody case involves several steps. At Eggert Law, we walk you through each one:

1. Initial Consultation – Review goals, facts, and rights.
2. Filing the Petition – Draft and file the necessary documents.
3. Discovery – Collect relevant evidence such as income records, communications, and parenting history.
4. Mediation – Many cases settle here with the help of a neutral mediator.
5. Court Hearing – If mediation fails, a judge hears the case and makes a decision.

Throughout the process, we protect your relationship with your child and advocate for their well-being.

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Helping Your Family Through Emotional Transitions

Custody battles are not just legal—they’re emotional. We guide clients with both legal strategy and compassionate support.

Principles we encourage:

• Focus on your child’s best interests
• Communicate clearly with your co-parent
• Stay open to compromise
• Seek counseling or support if needed
• Trust experienced legal help

At Eggert Law, you are not just a case—you are a parent working to protect your child’s future.

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When Can a Child Choose Where to Live?

In Oklahoma, a child’s preference may be considered starting at age 12. However, the court evaluates maturity and reasoning. The child’s choice is one factor among many, and the final decision rests with the judge.

If your child is 12 or older, we can help you understand how their input might affect your case and prepare accordingly.

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What Makes a Parent Unfit?

A parent may be deemed unfit if they cannot meet a child’s basic needs or present a risk to the child’s safety or stability. Factors may include:

• History of neglect or abuse
• Substance addiction
• Untreated mental illness
• Unsafe living conditions
• Failure to provide emotional or financial support

If your child may be at risk—or if you’ve been accused of being unfit—contact us immediately. We act quickly to protect your rights and your child’s safety.

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Talk to a Tulsa Custody Lawyer Today

Whether you’re entering a custody case, modifying an agreement, or pursuing enforcement, you need a strong advocate who understands Oklahoma family law. Eggert Law is here to help.

Call our Broken Arrow office at (539) 252-9364 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

We will listen. We will advise. We will stand with you.

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