How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce in Oklahoma?

The prospect of a divorce can be both emotionally overwhelming and daunting, especially when you're uncertain about how long it will take.

The time required to finalize a divorce in Oklahoma can vary widely and is influenced by the specific details and complexities of each case. Factors like child custody disputes and disagreements over property division can extend the timeline.

With years of dedicated experience working with couples and individuals, seasoned divorce attorney Cole Yarborough, founder of Yarborough Law Group, understands the intricacies of the divorce process. He and the Yarborough Law Group team can provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

The goal of this article is to shed light on the general timeline for divorce in Oklahoma and help you better understand what to expect as you navigate your separation.

A Short Waiting Period in Oklahoma Divorce Proceedings

In Oklahoma, couples who agree on all terms of their separation can expedite the uncontested divorce process, potentially finalizing it as quickly as 10 days after filing the necessary paperwork.

Once an agreement is reached and all necessary documents are duly signed by both parties, they’re submitted to a judge for approval. This streamlined approach allows for a swift resolution in cases where no minor children are involved.

The Timeline to Divorce with Children

For couples with children, a 90-day waiting period is imposed from the filing of the divorce petition to the final order. This is intended to provide an opportunity for reconciliation through marital counseling.

However, this waiting period can be waived under certain conditions, such as mutual agreement or a demonstration of "good cause.” In contested divorces where disagreements on issues like child custody or property division exist, the timeline can be considerably longer, as these matters may require court resolution.

Circumstances that Allow for a Waiver of the 90-Day Oklahoma Divorce Waiting Period

If neither party objects and the court has good cause to believe that reconciliation is unlikely even after counseling, the judge may decide to waive the waiting period.

Furthermore, according to 43 O.S. §107.1(b), the court can also waive the waiting period under certain conditions. These conditions include:

• Instances of extreme cruelty.
• Abandonment for one year or longer.
• Habitual drunkenness.
• Imprisonment on a felony charge (state or federal).
• Procurement of a final divorce decree outside of Oklahoma that doesn’t release the other party from the obligations of the marriage.
• Internment in a state institution for the insane for five years or more.
• Conviction of child abuse.

The judge in your case will consider you and your spouse’s lifestyles, living conditions, criminal records, and other factors when deciding whether to waive the standard 90-day waiting period.

Additional Factors Affecting How Long Your Divorce Will Take

The following additional elements can influence how long it takes to resolve your divorce case.

Trustworthy Guidance and Support for Your Divorce

Understanding the possible duration of divorce proceedings in Oklahoma is crucial for anyone going through this challenging process. Whether it's expediting uncontested divorces or addressing the complexities of contested divorces with numerous complicating factors, reliable legal guidance is indispensable.

The compassionate family law attorneys at Yarborough Law Group have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the intricacies of divorces involving child custody, property division, and other complex issues. Make sure your separation proceeds smoothly by scheduling a consultation today.