Family Law Archives - Page 4 of 6 | The Smith Firm

Obtaining Emergency Custody in Oklahoma

Abusive Relationship, Child Custody, Custody, Divorce, Family Law

Divorce and family law cases involving children may, at times, result in one party seeking emergency custody of the children. In many counties in Oklahoma judges disfavor emergency motions, therefore it’s important to know when and when not to request...

Divorce Trauma and PTSD…What to know.

Divorce, Family Law, Self-Care

Is it possible to suffer PTSD as a result of a divorce? Maybe. There’s no question we have represented clients who have suffered emotionally as a result of their divorce case, and some have gone on to receive a PTSD...

10 Self-Care Principles for Navigating Divorce

Divorce, Family Law, Self-Care

Going through a divorce can be one of the most emotionally challenging and overwhelming experiences in life. During this time, it's crucial to prioritize self-care to nurture your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By embracing these ten essential self-care principles,...

U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Indian Child Welfare Act…For Now.

Adoption, Child Custody, Custody, Family Law

The United States Supreme Court affirmed the constitutionality of the Indian Child Welfare Act in a 7-2 decision on Thursday, June 15, 2023. The decision keeps the federal law in place, for the time being. The Indian Child Welfare Act...

What is Assisted Reproductive Technology?

Adoption, ART, Family Law

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) refers to a range of medical procedures and treatments designed to assist individuals or couples who are experiencing infertility or certain reproductive challenges in conceiving a child. ART techniques involve the handling of eggs, sperm, or...

Fathers are Critical to Child Well-Being

Child Custody, Custody, Family Law, Parental Equality

Empirical studies have consistently shown that children suffer emotionally, academically, and developmentally when they don’t have a close relationship with their father post-divorce during childhood. Math, reading, social skills and emotionality are affected based on the post-divorce relationship children have...

What is Parental Alienation?

Family Law

Parental alienation refers to a complex dynamic that can occur during high-conflict divorces or separations where one parent systematically undermines, manipulates, or distances a child from the other parent. It involves a range of behaviors and tactics employed by one...

What is the Role of a Guardian ad Litem?

Family Law

In Oklahoma, while a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) plays a crucial role in representing the best interests of a child in a custody case, there are certain limitations to their authority and scope of involvement. Here are some key limitations...

What to do with the marital home in a divorce?

Divorce, Family Law, Property Division

Most divorcing couples’ largest asset is their home. It may possess the bulk of their marital equity, but it may also carry significant sentimental value and create a stable environment for children. Deciding what to do with the house after...

What is a Guardian ad Litem?

Family Law

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a person appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child or incapacitated adult in legal proceedings. The term "ad litem" is Latin for "for the lawsuit" or "for the case."...