Family Law Attorney in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Family Law Attorney in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Child Custody

Custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child. Getting the other parent—or the judge—to agree with your position requires careful preparation and advocacy. Christopher Eggert helps parents in Tulsa and Broken Arrow navigate these highly personal issues with clarity and focus.

Both divorcing and unmarried parents must address custody. For unmarried parents, paternity often needs to be legally established before custody or visitation rights can be pursued. A parent has no enforceable right to visitation or custody until paternity is confirmed, making it essential to resolve this early in the process.

Decision-Making Authority

Custody is primarily about decision-making. The custodial parent has authority over major issues such as residence, education, and medical care. Oklahoma law allows for joint custody, where parents share decision-making responsibilities.

Important points about custody in Oklahoma:

• Joint custody cannot be forced—it must be agreed upon by both parents.
• Day-to-day decisions (activities, outings, emergency medical care) are generally unaffected by custody status and fall under visitation or parenting time.

Visitation

Visitation—sometimes called “parenting time”—is often more significant to parents than custody itself. Oklahoma law provides a standard visitation schedule, but a customized plan tailored to your family’s needs can make life easier long-term.

A strong visitation plan should account for:

• Weekends and school breaks
• Summer schedules
• Vacations and travel
• Holidays and birthdays

Clear, flexible parenting plans reduce conflict and help parents cooperate more smoothly over the years.

Modification & Enforcement

Life changes, and so do custody and visitation needs. Parents may move, incomes fluctuate, or children’s activities require adjustments. In these cases, you may need modification or enforcement of the existing court order.

Modification

• Requests can cover custody, visitation, child support, or alimony.
• Common reasons include changes in income, relocation, or evolving needs of children.
• A decree does not automatically adjust—you must petition the court.

Enforcement

• If a parent refuses to pay child support or denies visitation, the solution is not confrontation but legal enforcement.
• The court ensures compliance with custody and support orders, helping you secure your rights and your children’s stability.

‍