Understanding Step-Parent Responsibilities Under Oklahoma Law
Hello, my name is Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office – Oklahoma City. Today we are going to be discussing a step-parent’s obligation to their stepchildren.
In Oklahoma, under Oklahoma law, a step-parent actually has no obligation to maintain the stepchildren. This law can be found under Title 43, Section 112.4, which is entitled No Duty to Maintain Stepchildren.
Legal Framework Surrounding Step-Parent Responsibilities
The statute itself, quite literally verbatim, states that a step-parent is not required to maintain his or her spouse’s children from a prior relationship. I’ve had quite a few clients in the past who asked me, while they were going through a divorce, if they had any financial obligations toward their stepchildren.
They often wonder, Hey, my spouse here is bringing up my stepchildren. Do I have an obligation to pay child support or any other financial obligation to this child, even though they’re not mine? The answer is clear: unless you have adopted this child and made them your own, you, as a step-parent, have no obligation to maintain for your stepchild whatsoever.
Exceptions to the Rule
It is important to note that if the child is biologically yours or if you have adopted this child, that changes the landscape significantly. The same goes for situations where you may be a guardian under a guardianship for this child.
However, if they are strictly your stepchild and you have not taken on any additional responsibilities, then under Oklahoma law, you have no obligation to maintain for this stepchild.
Get Informed About Your Rights
If you found this video to be helpful or you believe it could help someone else, please visit OKC attorneys. My name is Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office, and thank you for watching.
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If you have questions about your obligations as a step-parent or need legal advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at 405-888-5400 for a low-cost consultation. We’re here to help you navigate your family law matters.
