On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in divorce on Monday, September 9, 2019.
Marriages in Oklahoma are entered into with the anticipation of a relationship that will continue to grow and thrive as the couple ages and builds their life together. Sadly, this is often not the case as couples can grow apart. Adding children to the mix can cause additional stress on the relationship, and divorce may be the result. There are certain assumptions that people may make regarding separation and divorce that are not true.
One such assumption is that maintaining separate bank accounts means that finances are separate as well. Assets accumulated during a marriage are regarded as marital property, or joint property, and are subject to a fair division of assets as determined by a court. In a related issue, a person may assume that alimony will be granted to the wife. In today’s economy, it is not unusual for father’s to stay home and raise children. In alimony decisions, the income of both parties is considered when making a determination.
Another assumption that is not necessarily always true is that custody will be granted to the mother. Courts take into account the best interests of the child, including who has been the primary caretaker in the children’s lives. Shared custody is considered an optimum solution to give a child time with each parent and allowing the child to maintain strong parental bonds.
Divorce is one of the most difficult ordeals a person can experience in Oklahoma. If it is an option being considered, professional counsel from an experienced family law professional can help a person make difficult and informed decisions regarding the future of his or her family. Remaining in an increasingly unhappy situation is to no one’s benefit.
