All the steps taken by a couple in the Tulsa, Oklahoma divorce process culminate in the divorce decree. It is the final step in the process. A divorce decree in Oklahoma is an order of the court.
What A Divorce Decree In Oklahoma Contains
The decree looks like an order. It has the names of the parties to the divorce and the case number on it. The document includes the date on which your divorce is final. Also, a divorce decree in Oklahoma may include things such as whether the divorcing couple has children.
The divorce decree often refers to the Separation and Property Settlement Agreement of the Parties and attaches the Agreement as an exhibit to the decree. This is sometimes referred to as the Marital Settlement Agreement. This Agreement becomes incorporated into the decree and becomes part of the order.
Everything agreed to by the couple is contained in the Agreement. This covers the division of property and liabilities, spousal support, division of pension plans and retirement accounts, child custody, child support, declarations regarding separate property, and when items must be removed from the family home.
It may also include an order that allows the wife to have her name changed back to her maiden name if she took her husband’s name when the couple initially married. It should also include a provision for attorneys’ fees and costs if one of the parties needs to bring a motion to enforce the terms of the order. An attorneys’ fees clause can be a powerful incentive to adhering to the terms of the Agreement.
Finally, it will include a prohibition against either party remarrying, except to each other, for a period of six months after the entry of the decree of divorce.
Make Sure You Understand The Decree And Agreement
The Separation and Property Settlement Agreement of the Parties often contains the ongoing duties of the parties. This is especially true when children are involved.
It is important that you read, understand, and abide by its terms. If you do not abide by its terms, your ex-spouse can bring a motion before the court to make sure that you adhere to the court order. If you lose that motion, it is likely that you will have to pay not only your attorney’s fees but also your ex-spouse’s attorney’s fees and costs.
How To Use The Divorce Decree
It is important to have several certified copies of your divorce decree. You will have to pay a fee to the court clerk’s office to get a certified copy. Certified copies are needed for financial transactions.
For example, if your decree allows you to have a portion of your ex-spouse’s retirement account rolled into your retirement account, your ex-spouse’s retirement plan administrator will need to have a certified copy of the divorce decree along with the Separation and Property Settlement Agreement attached.
It is critical that you get help from an experienced Tulsa divorce lawyer while going through this process. The decisions you make now will affect your life for years to come.
Initial Consultation With A Tulsa Divorce Attorney
When marriage plans unravel, get the best legal counsel available. Don’t go it alone. Get an experienced, reliable Tulsa divorce attorney on your side.
A no-cost initial consultation can help determine whether the Divorce of Tulsa Law Office can provide the best Tulsa divorce lawyer for your family law matter. For a low-cost confidential consultation, call 918-924-5526 now.