Important terms to include in an Oklahoma custody decree

Important Terms to Include in an Oklahoma Custody Decree

What are some important terms to consider including in your custody decree? My name is Brian L. Jackson and I am a Tulsa father’s rights attorney here at dads.law where fathers are not disposable. And today we are going to talk about some potential terms you should seriously consider putting in your custody decree.

Traditional Order of Proper Conduct

A good term to start with is a traditional order of proper conduct. This term gives instructions to the parties as to how they should act around the children, things they should do, and things they should refrain from doing. It is enforceable through contempt proceedings and covers common sense guidelines. Including this term in your custody decree is beneficial for all parties involved.

Right of First Refusal

Another important term to consider, especially if there are grandparents involved, is the right of first refusal. This term allows you to ask for the children’s custody if the other parent is not going to exercise their visitation time, particularly for a longer span of time. It can help avoid leaving the children with someone else and may prevent potential conflicts. While it may lead to litigation in some cases, it is still a worthy term to include.

Spelling Out Holiday Celebrations

It is essential to spell out all the holidays you and your family celebrate in the custody decree. While there is typically a holiday schedule included in divorce and paternity decrees, it may not cover all the holidays that are important to you. If certain holidays are not listed, they may not be recognized as holidays, leading to potential problems and further legal disputes. Make sure your holiday schedule reflects the holidays you celebrate to avoid any complications.

Pick Up and Drop Off Arrangements

Another crucial term to include is the specific details regarding pick up and drop off. Failing to spell out these arrangements can result in arguments and potential litigation. Be clear about the location, transportation responsibilities, and any related expenses. By addressing these details in the custody decree, you can prevent future conflicts and ensure smoother transitions for the children.

Terms Regarding Significant Others

Terms dealing with significant others are essential to avoid potential conflicts and disagreements. Determine whether each person is allowed to bring their boyfriend or girlfriend around and if so, under what circumstances. Specify the level of interaction they are allowed to have with the children and establish any limitations. It is important to address these issues even if neither parent is currently dating anyone, as it will likely become relevant in the future. Discuss and include these terms in your custody decree to proactively address potential concerns.

Take Action Now – Low-cost Strategy Session

If you have questions or concerns about what language to include in your custody decree, it is crucial to consult with a knowledgeable lawyer. At dads.law, we specialize in father’s rights and can provide you with the guidance and support you need. Call us today at 918-962-0900 to schedule a initial consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights as a father.