Oklahoma City Lawyer Blog
Drafting a Will: Essential Steps and Legal Considerations
Tips on Drafting Oklahoma Wills
Creating a will is an essential part of estate planning that can significantly ease the burdens on your loved ones. Shockingly, over 60% of Americans do not have a basic will, risking lengthy probate processes for their families. Oklahoma has specific legal requirements that must be met to ensure a valid will. Consulting an experienced Oklahoma City estate planning attorney can help you navigate these requirements and safeguard your family's future. Don't leave your legacy to chance; start your estate planning journey today by reaching out to a knowledgeable attorney who can provide expert guidance tailored to your needs. Read more »Spousal Support 101: Key Legal Insights for Oklahomans
Welcome to the Wirth Law Office blog! I’m Dillan Savage, and today I want to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of Oklahoma law—the legal obligation spouses have to support one another. According to Oklahoma Statutes Title 43, Section 202, both partners are required to assist each other financially, drawing from community or separate property. This means you must ensure your spouse's needs are met, particularly if they cannot support themselves due to infirmity. Understanding this duty can not only strengthen your marriage but also prevent legal issues down the line. For more insights, visit TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com! Read more »
What Is Separate Property? A Guide for Couples
Welcome to my blog! I’m Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office, specializing in family law in Oklahoma City. In this post, we delve into the nuances of separate property, especially crucial for married and divorcing individuals. Simply put, separate property is that which one spouse solely owns, with no rights bestowed to the other. Often, this includes assets acquired before marriage or inherited property that hasn’t appreciated in value due to the union. Understanding separate property can prevent disputes during divorce proceedings, so it’s vital for couples to recognize what qualifies as their individual property. For more insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Oklahoma Laws on Marital Agreements: What Couples Should Know
Welcome to the blog of Oklahoma City divorce lawyer Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office. Today, we delve into the intriguing topic of contracts between married individuals. While marriage itself is a formal contract, spouses can create additional agreements concerning property distribution, often seen in post-nuptial arrangements. These legal documents can clarify terms for property division and even child support in cases of separation or divorce. It’s important to note, however, that contracts cannot alter personal relationships. For details on legal separations, check Title 43, Section 206. Discover more insights on our site, TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com. Thank you for visiting! Read more »
How Legal Separation Works in Oklahoma: Key Details Unpacked
In this insightful discussion, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office delves into the distinctions between legal separation and divorce in Oklahoma City. Unlike divorce, which requires a substantial reason—such as incompatibility or infidelity—legal separation can be achieved simply through mutual consent. This option allows couples to take a breather, work on their relationship, and discuss aspects like property division and child support without the finality of divorce. If you’re contemplating a legal separation and want to understand the process better, tune in for essential information that could benefit you or someone you know. Visit theoklahomacityattorney.com for more. Read more »
Debt and Divorce: Understanding Spousal Responsibility
Welcome to the blog of Oklahoma City attorney Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office. Today, we tackle the complex issue of spousal debt responsibility. The short answer? It’s a mixed bag. Generally, you won’t be liable for your spouse's separate debts, such as those accrued before your marriage or solely in their name. However, if you co-signed or the debt is considered marital, you could be held accountable. Additionally, certain “necessaries,” like medical debts, can also tie you to financial responsibility. For a deeper dive into this topic and more legal insights, visit TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com. Read more »
Expedited Hearings: Rights for Deploying Military Parents
Welcome to the Wirth Law Office blog! I'm Dillan Savage, your guide to navigating legal rights for military families in Oklahoma City. In this post, we'll explore the essential concept of expedited hearings for custody and visitation matters when a military parent is deploying. If a service member has received deployment orders, they must notify the court within ten days. This allows either parent to request a prompt hearing—ensuring custody arrangements are addressed swiftly before deployment. Stay tuned for tips and insights on protecting your family's rights during these challenging times. For more information, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Deployment Notification: Parents' Legal Responsibilities Explained
Welcome to the Wirth Law Office blog! I'm Dillan Savage, and today we're discussing a crucial obligation for deploying parents under Oklahoma law. According to Title 43 Section 150.4, a deploying parent must inform the non-deploying parent within 10 days of receiving deployment orders. This is vital for ensuring communication and planning during deployment. Furthermore, if the deployment occurs sooner than the 10-day window, the deploying parent is required to notify the other parent immediately. This process helps maintain stability for children and ensures both parents are informed. For more insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Thank you for reading! Read more »
License Risks: Consequences of Child Support Non-Compliance
In this informative video, Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office - Oklahoma City, discusses Title 43, Section 139.1, which addresses the serious consequences of non-compliance with child support orders. This statute outlines how individuals who fail to pay child support for 90 days or more risk losing their professional licenses, including revocation, suspension, or non-issuance of licenses. Dillan emphasizes the importance of fulfilling child support obligations, not just for personal livelihoods, but for the well-being of children. If you're navigating child support issues or seek legal guidance, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com for more resources. Read more »
Your Guide to Oklahoma Child Support: Rights and Key Responsibilities
Welcome to the Wirth Law Office blog! I'm Dillan Savage, and today we're exploring the critical topic of child support in Oklahoma. Under state law, both parents are obligated to provide financial support for their children, whether in paternity or divorce cases. This legal requirement ensures that children are cared for equitably, regardless of their parents’ relationship status. Courts assess income to determine payment obligations, emphasizing that child support is a right and an obligation. If you have questions or need assistance, visit OklahomaCityAttorney.com for more insights. Thank you for joining us! Read more »
Dealing with Child Support Arrearages? Practical Payment Tips
In this blog post, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office in Oklahoma City discusses strategies for paying off child support arrearage. Arrearage refers to the unpaid child support that accumulates over time, which can lead to serious legal issues. Dillan outlines two primary methods to address this debt: making a lump sum payment or establishing a structured payment plan. If the arrearage is substantial, a payment schedule must be set up, allowing for the arrearage to be paid off within a maximum of three years, as stipulated by Oklahoma law. For further insights, visit oklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Mastering Child Support Payments: Methods & Record-Keeping Tips
In this insightful discussion, Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office in Oklahoma City delves into the intricacies of alimony and child support payments. He outlines various methods for making these payments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clear record. Options include certified checks, payment apps like Cash App or Venmo, and utilizing the court clerk's office for documented transactions. Dillan stresses the significance of avoiding cash payments and ensures that every method offers a reliable paper trail. For more detailed information and further resources, visit TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com. Stay informed on your rights and obligations regarding alimony and child support. Read more »
Understanding Liens: Enforcing Child Support Payments Effectively
In today's discussion, Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office in Oklahoma City shines a light on child support liens. When child support payments go unpaid, they accumulate as arrearages, creating a financial obligation that grows over time. This arrearage acts as a legal lien against the non-paying individual, potentially leading to wage garnishment by DHS. However, there are additional legal avenues available. For those with real estate or significant personal property, it is possible to request the court to place a lien on these assets, ensuring that the owed support can be recovered. For more insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Alimony Termination in Oklahoma: Your Rights & Options Explained
In this insightful video, Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office in Oklahoma City discusses the complexities surrounding the termination of alimony. While traditional methods include the recipient's death, remarriage, or cohabitation, Dillan emphasizes that there are other options for those who don't meet these criteria. Oklahoma law allows for alimony modification or termination if circumstances have changed significantly, rendering payments inequitable. Referencing Title 43, Section 134, Subsection D, he explains how individuals can petition the court with evidence of changed circumstances. For more valuable insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Tune in to learn how to navigate your alimony concerns effectively. Read more »
Alimony Termination Explained: Cohabitation Rules & Tips
In this blog post, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office – Oklahoma City, explores the process of terminating alimony payments. Specifically, he focuses on situations where the recipient is cohabitating with a member of the opposite sex or a new significant other. According to Title 43, Section 134, Subsection c, such changes in the recipient's living situation may warrant a motion to terminate alimony. Dillan explains that if the recipient's financial circumstances improve due to cohabitation, the original need for alimony may no longer exist. For more insights, visit TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com. Let’s dive into the details! Read more »
Key Factors for Ending Alimony: Death & Remarriage Explained
In this insightful post, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office discusses the termination of alimony in Oklahoma City, focusing on two key circumstances: the death or remarriage of the recipient. When a recipient passes away, the payer can motion the court to end alimony payments, especially if the divorce decree includes specific language for such situations. Conversely, if the recipient remarries, they must demonstrate any ongoing financial need to continue receiving alimony, which can be challenging given the likely increase in their financial situation. For further details, refer to Title 43, Section 134, Subsection B. Discover more at theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Decoding Alimony: Key Insights for Final Decrees Explained
In this insightful video, Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office - Oklahoma City dives into the intricacies of alimony as outlined in a final decree. Understanding that alimony is assessed based on two key factors—whether one party can pay and the other party's need for support—Dillan emphasizes the necessity for specificity. Courts require precise timelines and dollar amounts for alimony payments, leaving no room for vague language. Moreover, he discusses how alimony may be considered in the context of property division, underscoring the importance of detailed documentation. For more information, visit TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com. Read more »
Can You Reverse Your Divorce? Steps to Nullify Decree!
In today's discussion, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office explores a fascinating legal question: Can you nullify your divorce decree after the fact? If you and your ex-spouse believe your divorce was a mistake and wish to reconcile, it is indeed possible to have your divorce decree set aside. Both parties must petition the same court that granted the original decree, providing proof that neither has remarried since the divorce. While this scenario is uncommon, it is supported by Oklahoma law under Title 43, Section 133. For more insights, visit TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com. Read more »
Who Can Testify in Divorce & Paternity Cases Explained
In today’s blog post, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office - Oklahoma City, explores who can testify during divorce and paternity proceedings. Many clients come prepared with a list of potential witnesses, which is perfectly acceptable. However, what often surprises them is that they, too, can take the stand. Under Oklahoma law (Title 43, Section 132), individuals involved in a case have the right to testify about their experiences. Dillan emphasizes that while your attorney will guide you through the process, your firsthand account is invaluable. For more insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Divorce Residency Rules in Oklahoma: What You Need to Know
In today's discussion, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office - Oklahoma City explores a common question: Can an Oklahoma resident file for divorce if their spouse lives out of state? According to Title 43, Section 131, as long as you meet the residency requirements—living in Oklahoma for at least six months and in your county for 30 days—you can file for divorce in Oklahoma, regardless of your spouse's location. However, if children are involved, their residency must also be considered. Dive into the details and learn your rights as a resident of Oklahoma when it comes to divorce. Read more »
Changing Your Child's Last Name in Paternity Cases Explained
In today's blog post, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office in Oklahoma City discusses an important aspect of paternity lawsuits: changing your child's last name. If you have been adjudicated as the father of a minor child, Oklahoma law allows you to petition the court for a name change under Title 10, Section 90.4. This process requires serving notice to the other party, and if no objections are raised, you may proceed with the change. However, if there is an objection, a hearing will be necessary to demonstrate that the change serves the child's best interests. For more insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Bigamy: What It Is and the Punishments You Could Face
In this informative post, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office explores the legal implications of bigamy in Oklahoma. Bigamy, defined as marrying two individuals simultaneously, can lead to serious consequences if convicted. Often arising from a hasty remarriage post-divorce, individuals may unknowingly violate Oklahoma's six-month waiting period. If charged and found guilty, bigamy is classified as a felony, punishable by one to three years in state prison. Dillan emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal waiting periods to avoid these severe penalties. For further insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Stay informed and protect yourself from unintentional legal troubles! Read more »
When Can You Remarry After Divorce? Here’s What to Know
In Oklahoma, there's a six-month waiting period after your divorce before you can remarry someone new. However, if you choose to remarry your ex-spouse, this restriction doesn’t apply. It's important to note that during this six-month period, cohabitating with a new partner with the intent to marry can lead to legal issues, including potential felony charges for bigamy or adultery. Additionally, if there's an appeal on your divorce decree, you must wait until 30 days after a final decision before considering remarriage or cohabitation. For more insights, visit TheOklahomaCityAttorney.com. My name is Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office. Read more »
Enforcing Unilateral Divorces: Legal Insights Explained
In this insightful discussion, Dillan Savage, an attorney from Wirth Law Office, delves into the implications of a one-sided divorce in Oklahoma. If one party fails to respond to divorce documents, they can be found in default, allowing the filing party to receive a divorce decree without their presence. This legal process is outlined in Title 43, Section 122, which establishes that such a divorce acts as a binding contract for both parties, barring any claims to property. Dillan emphasizes the importance of responding to divorce proceedings, either independently or with legal representation, to protect one’s rights. Read more »
Restoring Your Maiden Name Post-Divorce: The Legal Process
Welcome to my blog! I’m Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office, focusing on Oklahoma City. Today, we explore the process of restoring your maiden name or former name during divorce, as outlined in Oklahoma's Title 43, Section 121. This law allows both men and women to reclaim their names through divorce proceedings. To ensure a smooth transition, your final decree must clearly state both your married name and the name you wish to restore. After securing certified copies of the decree, you'll need to update your records with agencies like the DMV and IRS. Don’t overlook this simple yet crucial step! Read more »
Who’s Ineligible for Marriage in Oklahoma? Know the Law!
Welcome to the Wirth Law Office blog! I’m Dillan Savage, your trusted legal resource in Oklahoma City. Today, we're diving into Title 43, Section 2 of Oklahoma law, which outlines prohibitions on marriage based on consanguinity. This statute clearly states that individuals related by blood—like ancestors and descendants—cannot marry. Additionally, it prohibits marriages between stepparents and stepchildren, as well as between aunts and nephews or uncles and nieces. Interestingly, while first cousins cannot marry in Oklahoma, if they wed in another state where it’s legal, Oklahoma will recognize that marriage. Stay informed and empowered with our legal insights! Read more »
Unlawful Marriages: What Are the Legal Penalties?
In this insightful discussion, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office explores the serious legal repercussions of performing marriages for individuals who are prohibited from marrying in Oklahoma. If you are a licensed officiant, knowingly conducting such a marriage can lead to felony charges, with potential penalties ranging from one to five years in prison and fines up to $500. Dillan highlights the importance of understanding the state's marriage laws, particularly Title 43, Section 14, which details these consequences. Stay informed and protect yourself by watching the full video and visiting theoklahomacityattorney.com for more information. Read more »
Mastering Child Support: Key Steps to Request Financial Info
In this informative excerpt, Dillan Savage of Wirth Law Office discusses the essential steps for requesting wage and tax information in custody cases post-divorce or paternity decree. If you're owed child support and need financial details from the other party, you can request their W-2s, 1099s, and more after April 15th each year. Dillan emphasizes the importance of proper legal procedures, including filing a formal request and serving it to the other party. Failure to comply can lead to court actions and possible attorney's fees. For more insights and legal guidance, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »
Health Insurance Orders in Custody Cases: Employer Responsibilities Explained
In today’s discussion, I’m Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office, focusing on employer obligations regarding health insurance for minor children in Oklahoma. If you’ve been ordered by a court to provide health coverage and have access to employer-sponsored plans, your employer must allow you to enroll your child immediately, despite typical enrollment periods. This requirement is outlined in Title 43, Section 118.2. Your employer cannot disenroll your child unless specific conditions are met. Understanding these rights can ensure your child receives the necessary health care. For more insights, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Thank you for reading! Read more »
Child Support Review and Modification: What You Need To Know
In this insightful post, Dillan Savage from Wirth Law Office discusses the powers of child support services in Oklahoma City and their ability to modify existing child support computations. If you’re receiving state assistance like SoonerCare and child support is involved in your case—whether from a divorce or paternity—know that child support services regularly review these computations. Dillan explains the process when a modification is deemed necessary, including the transition to the Office of Administrative Hearings. Stay informed about your rights and options regarding child support adjustments. For more information, visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. Read more »