Family Lawyer Oklahoma City, OK

Family Law Is Complicated. Our Lawyers Make It Easier.

Getting the Oklahoma County courts involved in an intimate family matter isn’t something that many of us want, but in many cases, when the legal relationships between family members change, there’s often the need for legal intervention. Divorce, child custody disputes, questions of grandparents’ rights, or even a joyful occasion like adoption often require the court to rule on certain matters or approve the legal changes in the relationships. If you have a family law matter and need help resolving it, turn to our Oklahoma City, OK family lawyer. We handle your case with the compassion and tenacity you deserve.

The attorneys at Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC protect your rights and advocate for your interests. We know you want your family to be safe, stable, and happy, and we work through the court system to ensure it is. Family law attorneys Eric Strocen and Mick McCarthy work directly with clients throughout Oklahoma County to address diverse family legal needs with sensitivity and strategic thinking. Whether you’re filing for divorce, need a prenuptial agreement drafted, want to adopt a child, or need to pursue changes in your child custody arrangement, we can help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Extensive Family Law Services For Your Most Personal Matters

Our attorneys advocate for families like yours in a wide range of cases. We get to know you and what matters most to you so we can develop a resolution that’s best for your needs. With decades of combined experience litigating family law matters, we may be able to help you achieve a solution you haven’t considered. We fight for your rights and give you tailored advice to help you make the right decisions for your family.

When you’re represented by our Oklahoma City family lawyer, you benefit from our in-depth knowledge of state statutes governing family law matters, plus our understanding of case law that sets legal precedents. This gives us considerable authority to help with matters like:

• Annulment, divorce, and separation: When it’s time to end a legal union, you must protect your financial interests. We help you secure your fair share of marital property, including alimony if it applies to you. We also guide you through the often-contentious process of setting a child possession schedule and ensuring fair child support.
• Adoption: While we cannot personally vet adoption agencies for you, we can help you understand what ethical adoption is (and scams to avoid), prepare all the necessary documents to adopt your new child, and prepare you for home visits and other requirements of social services.
• Enforcement actions: Sometimes, one party isn’t compliant with court orders. This often arises in child custody and support issues or unpaid alimony. If you’re having difficulty getting the money you’re entitled to, or if your child’s other parent is violating the custody decree, we can initiate legal action to enforce the court orders.
• Grandparents’ rights: Under Oklahoma law, grandparents may have legal rights to visitation and custody of their grandchildren. We can help you explore your options.

Compassionate Support For Your Family Law Needs

Family law matters can leave you feeling overwhelmed and drained. Let our Oklahoma City family lawyer help support you and provide the legal protections you need for your family. We put your interests first and use our considerable resources to achieve the best outcome for your case. Contact Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC today for a consultation with our legal team.

Your Thoughtful Family Law Lawyer

When you’re in search of an Oklahoma City, OK family lawyer, finding someone who genuinely listens and understands your needs can make a real difference. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we’ve built our practice around the belief that family law requires more than just knowledge of the law—it requires care, respect, and commitment. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, child custody issues, adoption, or child support, we approach every case with the compassion and professionalism it deserves.

Legal Support Grounded In Trust And Respect

For over six years, we have been thoughtfully helping families with legal matters that carry emotional weight and long-term impact. Our team takes the time to hear your concerns and explain every option clearly. We welcome questions from clients and they help us to make sure we are all on the same page. We never treat your case as just paperwork—it’s personal to you, and that makes it personal to us. From your initial consultation to the resolution of your matter, we stay focused on achieving outcomes that make sense for your life and your family.

As an experienced and empathetic Oklahoma City family lawyer knows, our work often means stepping into situations that require sensitivity and strong advocacy at the same time. We’re here to protect your rights and help guide decisions that will affect your future. We also recognize that no two families are alike, and that’s why our approach is always tailored to each family’s unique needs, thoughtful, and grounded in trust.

We Treat Clients Like Family

We are more than a law firm—we are a dedicated family of legal professionals with a primary goal being to provide exceptional legal services while making our clients feel like we are all in it together, like a family. That spirit of unity is what drives our work, especially in cases involving children, shared assets, or difficult transitions. We believe the legal process should feel supportive, not isolating, and we work hard to create that experience for every client.

Our reputation is built not only on results but also on how we treat people. We know that when you come to us, you’re often facing a stressful situation. That’s why we keep communication open, stay responsive, and make sure you never feel like just another case. We stay present throughout the process and handle your case with the same care we’d want for our own family members. We know that most family law issues are charged with emotion, sometimes good and oftentimes difficult ones and we strive to simplify the legal jargon and process for our clients.

Let’s Move Forward Together

Choosing the right Oklahoma City family lawyer can change the course of your legal experience. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we’re here to stand with you and provide legal representation that reflects both strength and care. If you’re looking for an experienced legal team that treats your case with personal attention and commitment, we invite you to reach out today. Contact us to schedule a consultation, we have 24/7 live answering and we’re ready to walk through this with you, every step of the way.

Common Reasons For Needing A Family Lawyer

At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we’ve seen firsthand how family-related legal issues can impact nearly every aspect of a person’s life. Whether it involves making important decisions about your children, protecting your financial interests, or dealing with a life transition, having the right legal support matters. If you’re looking for an experienced Oklahoma City, OK family lawyer, we’re here to help. We offer 24/7 live answering and free case evaluations to make it easy for individuals and families to get the guidance they need when they need it most.

Here are some of the most common reasons people come to us for family law support:

• Filing For Divorce
  When a couple knows that it is time to end their marriage, many people get the legal guidance from a lawyer because divorcing often involves property division, support arrangements, and sometimes child custody. Legal representation helps protect both immediate and long-term interests.
• Child Custody Disputes
  Child custody matters often arise during divorce or separation. Parents come to us when they want to establish a fair parenting plan or need help modifying an existing order. A strong legal approach can help achieve a workable outcome for the family.
• Child Support Issues
  Whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support, legal guidance is essential. Our clients often seek help to make sure payments are fair and aligned with current financial situations.
• Spousal Support Requests
  In some divorce cases, one spouse may be entitled to support from the other. These cases require careful legal analysis to determine whether support is appropriate and how much should be paid. Many people who are divorcing do not realize how much money it will take to run two households and they ask lawyers to help them make sure that they are getting a fair deal.
• Adoption Proceedings
  Adopting a child involves several legal steps, and we help families make the process smooth and compliant with all regulations. Whether adopting through an agency or a stepparent adoption, legal help can reduce delays and confusion.
• Paternity Actions
  Clients often contact us to legally establish paternity for child custody or support purposes. These cases can be handled through agreement or court order, depending on the situation.
• Domestic Violence Protection
  Family safety comes first. We work with individuals who need protective orders or want to understand their options when dealing with domestic abuse. If you or your child is not safe in your current living situation, this is wrong and it is important that you get help. An Oklahoma City family lawyer can guide these matters with urgency and discretion.
• Modification Of Existing Orders
  Life circumstances change, and court orders sometimes need to be updated. Whether it’s a change in income, relocation, or a shift in parenting responsibilities, we help clients request modifications that reflect their current situation.
• Grandparents’ Rights
  In some cases, grandparents seek legal support to gain visitation or custody of grandchildren. When a grandparent thinks that their grandchild is not safe with the child’s parents, a lawyer may be able to help. These are sensitive matters that often require a tailored legal strategy.

Why Legal Help Matters

Working with an Oklahoma City family lawyer offers more than just legal advice—it provides a structured path forward during what is often a difficult time. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we focus on serving our community with clear, honest guidance across a wide range of family law issues. Our 24/7 live answering and free case evaluations mean help is always within reach.

If you’re dealing with a family law matter, don’t wait to get the support you need. Call us today to schedule your free case evaluation and take the first step toward resolution.

Oklahoma City Family Infographic

Oklahoma Family Law Statistics

Family law statistics highlight how frequently legal issues arise around marriage, divorce, child custody, and family structure in the United States. National demographic data shows that millions of adults are divorced, and roughly one-third of ever-married individuals experience divorce, making marital dissolution one of the most common family-related legal matters. Divorce often involves additional legal concerns such as child custody, child support, spousal support, and property division, especially when minor children or shared assets are involved.

Custody and parenting arrangements are another major component of family law. Most children of divorced parents live primarily with one custodial parent, while the other parent typically receives scheduled parenting time. Family courts also handle a high volume of child support cases, ensuring financial contributions toward housing, education, healthcare, and daily living expenses for children.

Domestic violence and protective order filings represent a significant share of family court activity. Courts regularly process petitions for restraining orders, emergency protection, and safety planning, reflecting ongoing concerns about family safety and well-being.

Family law matters also extend to adoptions, guardianships, paternity actions, and support modifications, demonstrating the wide scope of legal issues affecting families across all stages of life.

Oklahoma City Family Law FAQs

Family legal matters often feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we’re here to provide clear, reliable guidance when you need it most. Founded by attorneys Jimmy Lai and Braden Turner in 2022, our firm focuses on practical advice, dedicated advocacy, and responsive communication. If you are in need of an Oklahoma City, OK family lawyer, call us any time of the day or night, any day of the year. We’re ready when you are.

Does Oklahoma Recognize Fathers’ Rights?

Yes, Oklahoma recognizes that both parents have equal rights and responsibilities when it comes to their children. However, if a father is not married to the child’s mother, he must establish paternity to have legal rights to custody or visitation. This can be done voluntarily or through court proceedings. Once paternity is legally recognized, fathers can pursue parenting time, custody, and involvement in key decisions affecting the child’s welfare, just as mothers can.

How Long Do You Have To Live In Oklahoma Before Filing For Divorce?

To file for divorce in Oklahoma, one of the spouses must have lived in the state for at least six months before filing. Additionally, the spouse filing must have lived in the specific county where the divorce is being filed for at least 30 days. These residency requirements apply regardless of whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Meeting these requirements is essential for Oklahoma courts to have jurisdiction over your case.

What Are The Grounds For Divorce In Oklahoma?

Oklahoma allows both fault-based and no-fault divorces. The most common ground is “incompatibility,” which doesn’t require proving wrongdoing. Fault-based grounds include adultery, abandonment for one year, cruelty, habitual drunkenness, and felony conviction. Choosing the right ground depends on the circumstances of your case and what you hope to achieve through the divorce process. Many couples choose having an Oklahoma City family lawyer help them with  the no-fault route to avoid drawn-out legal battles.

Can Grandparents Have Visitation Rights In Oklahoma?

Yes, grandparents can be granted visitation rights in Oklahoma under certain conditions. The court must find that it is in the child’s best interest and that denying visitation would harm the child’s well-being. Typically, this situation arises when one parent is deceased, incarcerated, or otherwise absent, or when the child’s parents are divorced. Grandparents may need to file a petition and attend a hearing to obtain these rights.

What Counts As Marital Property In An Oklahoma Divorce?

In Oklahoma, marital property includes most assets and debts acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title. This can include income, real estate, retirement accounts, and vehicles. Property owned by one spouse before the marriage, or received as a gift or inheritance, is generally considered separate property and may not be subject to division. Courts aim for an equitable—not always equal—distribution of marital assets during divorce proceedings.

Oklahoma City Family Lawyer Glossary

When you’re dealing with family law matters in Oklahoma City, the legal language can feel overwhelming. We believe you should understand the terms that affect your case, whether you’re facing divorce, working through custody arrangements, or addressing support obligations. This guide clarifies common terms we use when representing clients in family law cases.

• Dissolution of Marriage: The legal process of ending a marriage in Oklahoma. Courts divide marital property, address child-related matters, and resolve support obligations during this process.
• Custody: The legal right and responsibility to make decisions about a child’s upbringing and daily care. Oklahoma recognizes both legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the child lives).
• Visitation: The time a non-custodial parent spends with their child. Oklahoma courts typically refer to this as “access” and create schedules that serve the child’s best interests.
• Marital Property: Assets and debts acquired during the marriage. Oklahoma follows equitable distribution principles, meaning courts divide property fairly but not necessarily equally.
• Separate Property: Assets owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritance during marriage. These items typically remain with the original owner after divorce.
• Child Support: Financial payments made by one parent to help cover a child’s living expenses. Oklahoma uses specific guidelines based on income and custody arrangements to calculate these amounts.
• Spousal Support: Also called alimony, these are payments one spouse makes to the other after divorce. Courts consider factors like marriage length, earning capacity, and financial need when determining support.
• Modification: A legal change to an existing court order. We can request modifications when circumstances change significantly, such as job loss or relocation.
• Contempt: When someone willfully disobeys a court order. Courts can impose penalties for contempt, including fines or jail time.
• Guardian ad Litem: An attorney or advocate appointed to represent a child’s best interests in court proceedings. This person investigates the situation and makes recommendations to the judge.
• Temporary Orders: Court directives that remain in effect during the legal process but before final decisions are made. These orders address immediate needs like temporary custody or support.
• Parenting Plan: A detailed agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children. Oklahoma courts require these plans in custody cases.
• Protective Order: A court order designed to protect someone from abuse, harassment, or threats from a family or household member. These orders can prohibit contact and establish safe boundaries.
• Mediation: A process where a neutral third party helps divorcing spouses or parents reach agreements outside of court. Many Oklahoma courts require mediation before trial in family law cases.

Understanding these terms helps you participate more effectively in your family law case. We work to explain legal concepts in plain language throughout your representation, and we encourage you to ask questions whenever something seems unclear. If you’re facing family law issues in Oklahoma City, reach out to discuss how we can help you protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your family.

Your Family Matters—So Does Your Representation

Family law matters often impact every part of a person’s life. That’s why it’s important to have a legal team you can count on. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we listen closely and act decisively, always with your goals in mind. If you are looking for a dependable Oklahoma City family lawyer, we’re ready to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Let us be your advocates when it matters most.