Oklahoma Fathers Rights
Paying for Extras: What Counts?
Attorney Clint Hastings from Tulsa, Oklahoma focuses on father's rights and explains that you do not get credit for paying for your child's extracurricular activities against your child support. While some orders may require a percentage contribution to agreed-upon extracurriculars based on income, it does not offset basic child support obligations. However, you can negotiate with the other party to include these expenses in your child support agreement. If you have further questions, visit our website or schedule a consultation. Read more »
Do Support Payments Offset?
Attorney Clint Hastings discusses the topic of offsets for child support owed in multiple cases. While you may receive a credit or deduction for paying child support in another case, it does not directly offset the amount owed in the current case. Instead, the deduction comes off of your gross income, affecting the calculation of child support. This means the deduction might not be as significant as expected. For more information on fathers' rights and child support issues, visit our website or contact us for a consultation. Read more »
Paying for a Step-Kid? Watch This
You do not get credit for giving money for your stepchildren. It is considered just a gift, not payment. If you want credit, you need an order or agreement for it to be credited in some way. Sometimes agreements can give you a credit towards child support, but a judge will likely view it as a gift. Check out our site for more information and feel free to call for a consultation if you have any questions. Read more »
GAL vs. PC: Understand Both Roles
Today, Clint Hastings discusses the key differences between a guardian ad litem and a parenting coordinator in family court cases. While a parenting coordinator focuses on improving communication between co-parents and resolving specific issues, a guardian ad litem advocates for the best interests of the children involved. Understanding the unique roles of each can be crucial in navigating the legal process and ensuring the welfare of the children. Hastings provides insight into how these professionals operate and how their recommendations can impact court decisions. If you're facing family court issues, knowing the distinctions between a guardian ad litem and a parenting coordinator is essential. Read more »
Gross Income and Child Support
Child support calculations should come from both parties' gross incomes, not net incomes. This is important to consider as net incomes can vary due to different deduction amounts and percentage deductions from monthly paychecks. By using gross income, a more even comparison can be made to determine each party's contribution. For more information and answers to similar questions, visit our website or schedule a consultation with attorney Clint Hastings, who specializes in fathers' rights in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Read more »
How Bonuses Affect Child Support
Attorney Clint Hastings addresses the tricky issue of including signing bonuses in child support calculations. While one-time hefty bonuses are often treated differently by judges, regular bonuses may be factored into your gross income. If you believe certain bonuses shouldn't count, it's up to you and your lawyer to present a compelling case to the judge. Factors like reliability and predictability of bonuses play into the decision-making process. For specific advice on your situation, consider reaching out for a consultation with an attorney specializing in father's rights. For more information, visit their website for valuable insights before making any decisions. Read more »
How Overtime Affects Child Support
A recurring question I get is, does my overtime pay count in the child support calculation? The answer is if you get seldom overtime and let's say it doesn't add a lot to your gross income, then it's not going to count. If it's kind of, you know, maybe a little more than seldom, but not very much, it still may not count. If you get it often and it's recurring on a regular basis, then that will count towards your gross child support income. Now there's no hard and fast rule on this. It's ultimately left to a judge to decide what they think is equitable and fair to count. And you, you know, you might imagine or think through it that, let's say your wife or whoever the mother of your child, let's say is, gets overtime all the time, well you would want that to count, right? Read more »
Is 18 the End of Child Support?
Child support does not automatically end at the age of 18. It's 18 or if 18 until graduates high school or if remains enrolled in high school until the age of 20. Now there are some other extenuating exceptions where say special needs cases and such where child support can actually go even longer than that, but the general rule is until the child is 18 graduates high school or until 20 whichever is the latter. Read more »
Parental Alienation in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, parental alienation may not be an official diagnosis, but therapists can still testify to the behavior. Whether labeled as parental alienation or not, if a parent is unjustifiably alienating a child from the other parent, the judge will intervene. It is crucial to focus on the behavior itself, rather than the terminology used. By taking action against this harmful behavior, parents can protect their children's best interests. To address parental alienation in your divorce case, contact Tulsa family attorney Clint Hastings at 918-962-0900 for a consultation or representation. Read more »
Paying Child Support With No Timeline
Today, Clint Hastings talks about child support due dates in custody orders. If there is no specified due date, it may default to the first of the month. It is crucial to stay on top of child support payments to avoid falling behind and potential legal action. Consider setting a consistent due date with your ex or seek legal guidance for modifications. Keeping up with payments is vital to avoid unnecessary stress and legal fees. Clint advises tackling the issue promptly to maintain a positive co-parenting relationship. Always prioritize timely child support payments to prevent complications down the line. Read more »
Traveling Rules During a Divorce
Tulsa dads divorce attorney Clint Hastings focuses on father's rights and explains the rules on traveling with a child after divorce. The automatic temporary injunction issued by statute prohibits hiding or secreting the child, and traveling outside the state without written consent for two weeks or more. Written consent cannot be unreasonably withheld, but violating the orders can lead to contempt actions, fines, and attorney fees. Canceling previously planned trips may be necessary if consent is withheld. It's crucial to follow the rules set in place by statute to avoid legal complications during divorce proceedings. Contact Tulsa Dads.Law for further consultation. Read more »
Denied Access to Records - Now What?
This is part two of a series discussing what records—medical, school, or otherwise—you’re entitled to as a non-custodial parent. Specifically, this video answers the question: What can you do if you’re being wrongfully blocked from accessing your child’s records? Let’s say you call the doctor’s office or show up in person to request your child’s records, and they tell you that the child’s mother has instructed them not to give you access. Here’s what to do: Politely inform them of your rights under Oklahoma Statute 43 O.S. § 109.6, which grants both parents access to these records unless a court order says otherwise. If they’re unsure, bring a copy of the statute with you. In many cases, that’s enough to resolve the issue. If they still refuse to comply, it's time to get an attorney involved. We’ll send a notice explaining the law and warning of legal action. If that doesn’t work, we can file a motion with the court to enforce your rights and obtain a court order requiring the provider or institution to release the records. Most of the time, these issues resolve with just a little legal pressure. But if the other parent is intentionally interfering, the court takes that seriously. A judge may consider it negatively in a custody modification or enforcement case. And if there’s already a custody order in place and she continues to block access, you may be able to pursue a contempt action—potentially resulting in penalties or attorney’s fees. Read more »
Can Dads Get Access to Records?
A non-custodial parent in Oklahoma is entitled to the same information and records as the custodial parent under Title 43, Section 109.6 of the Oklahoma Statutes. Records like school, medical, and daycare records must be made available upon request. There are exceptions, though, where the other parent can ask the court to restrict access if they believe it's not in the child's best interest. If you're being denied access, you have rights, but you need to assert them. Stay tuned for more advice on what to do if you're still struggling to get access to important records. Read more »
What is a Parenting Plan Conference?
A viewer recently asked, “What is a Parenting Plan Conference?” That’s a common early step in many Oklahoma divorce and custody cases. A PPC is considered a non-adversarial court setting. You and your co-parent will appear before a judge who gives a brief talk about how to handle the divorce in a way that protects your kids—especially when emotions are high early in the case. You’ll also be instructed to attend a four-hour class called Helping Children Cope with Divorce, which costs about $55. Every parent must take it. The goal is to help you avoid behaviors—intentional or not—that can negatively affect your children. Read more »
What is a Judicial Order for Proper Conduct in a Custody Case?
A Judicial Order of Proper Conduct (JOPC) is a court order that sets ground rules for how parents should behave toward each other and their children during a divorce. These terms vary by county but typically include instructions like not using children to send messages to the other parent, not speaking negatively about the other parent in front of kids, and not denying visitation without good cause. The goal is to protect kids and keep parents focused on their well-being. Judges can order them based on concerns or requests from attorneys. If you have questions about JOPCs or need help with your divorce case, consider reaching out for advice. Read more »
Part 11: Dads, Don't Skip the School Stuff
Today, Clint discusses the importance of school involvement in custody cases. Being active in your child's school life, attending meetings, and understanding their educational needs can significantly impact your case. Judges look for consistency and genuine interest in your child's well-being. Neglecting school involvement can hurt your chances of gaining more time with your child. On the other hand, showing up, participating, and taking notes demonstrate your commitment as a parent. Don't overlook the core of your child's daily routine. Stay engaged, know their schedule, and be part of their school life to strengthen your position in a custody dispute. Read more »
Part 10: The Fun Parent and Custody
Today’s topic is a big one: the difference between a Disneyland Dad and a consistent, involved parent. If you haven’t heard the term “Disneyland Dad,” it refers to a parent who only focuses on the fun—trips, pizza, movies—but doesn’t take on the day-to-day parenting duties. In court, that can work against you. It’s very easy for an opposing attorney to question a parent on the stand and expose that pattern. Start tracking everything you do with your kids in a calendar. These everyday moments matter in court—and they matter to your kids long-term. Start now. Be intentional. Read more »
Part 9: After-School Time and Custody
Today’s video delves into the importance of extracurricular activities in custody cases. While some may view these activities as optional, courts often see them as vital for a child’s well-being. Participating in extracurriculars can promote social development, reduce stress, and boost physical fitness. During a custody trial, your involvement in these activities can significantly impact the judge’s decision. Supporting your child by attending practices, games, and encouraging their interests is crucial. Documenting your participation and staying actively involved can demonstrate your commitment to your child’s growth and well-being. Remember, these seemingly “extra” activities can speak volumes in a custody battle. Read more »
Part 8: Medical Care and Custody
Today's focus is on medical and dental involvement. That includes physical health care, dental visits, and mental health counseling. A lot of dads haven’t been very involved in this area, which can be a factor in custody cases. Judges often treat past behavior as the best predictor of future behavior. Take an honest look at your past involvement, start participating now, access medical records, and document your involvement. Be ready to show the judge your level of involvement. It's essential to be specific when discussing your participation in your child's medical and dental care - this type of preparation can make a significant difference. Read more »
Part 7: Your Mental State and Custody
Today, we’re continuing my series on parental fitness—factors judges look at when deciding custody and how I help my clients prepare for trial. In this video, we're talking about mental health history and how it can affect your custody case. Courts Look at Effort, Not Just Diagnosis. The biggest mistake I see people make is thinking the diagnosis alone ruins their chances. The court’s priority is always the best interests of the children. If you’re concerned about how your mental health history might affect your custody case, don’t ignore it. Tackle it head-on, take it seriously, and let your efforts speak for themselves. Read more »
