Divorce - When Children Are Involved

You love your children and you will do what is necessary to protect them from the difficulties of the divorce process. Oklahoma law makers understand what you and your spouse are experiencing and they have incorporated two additional steps into the divorce process that are designed to help the children. Additional Step #1 - Parenting Plan Conference. Each district court refers to this step by a different name. In Tulsa County District Court it is called the 'Parenting Plan Conference'. In Wagoner County District Court it is called 'Family Orientation'. The purpose of this step is to bring you and your spouse together face to face for the initial court appearance and hopefully facilitate an agreement. During this step, the judge will explain to you and your spouse that the divorce process can be very difficult, especially for the children, and he will encourage you to negotiate a full settlement outside of court. Once the judge is finished, you and your spouse will have the option to step out of the court room and to discuss settlement. Additional Step #2 - Helping Children Cope with Divorce. This is a Saturday morning class that lasts three (3) to four (4) hours. It costs $50.00 to enroll. In Tulsa County, you can enroll by contacting Family and Children Services at their website http://www.fcsok.org or by calling them at (918) 587-9471.