The legal proceedings usually begin with the service of your legal documents: A summons, Petition, Notice of Application for a Temporary Order and an Application for a Temporary Order.
The petition sets forth the factual history of the marriage and the legal grounds, as well as information and allegations which are the basis of obtaining a court order which sets forth the rights and obligations of the parties while the case is pending and waiting trial.
After the petition is filed, but before entering a final decree, it is normal for the Court to order the parties to do, or refrain from doing, certain things. The temporary order (show cause order) is an attempt by the Court to maintain the “status quo”. The application for temporary order will also include a date for hearing so the parties can appear and show cause why the temporary order should, or should not, be granted. The application for a temporary order may include requests for many things, including support for either party; support for minor children; removal of a spouse from the marital home; determination of temporary custody and visitation; who shall be responsible for debts incurred during the marriage; payment of temporary attorney fees and costs, etc. If either party fails to comply with a Court order, once it is entered, that party may be held in “contempt” by the Court and punished if the other party asks the Court to do so.
Prior to filing a petition for divorce, you must have resided in the State of Oklahoma for 6 months, and in the County where the petition
is filed for at least 30 days.
This web site is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal
legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.