Divorce, undoubtedly a challenging and overwhelming process, can be made significantly easier by opting for a simplified divorce in Oklahoma. Known as an uncontested divorce, this type of divorce allows both parties to agree to end their marriage without the need for a court appearance. Moreover, a simplified divorce can be completed quickly and inexpensively. In this article, we will delve into the step-by-step process required to obtain a simplified divorce in Oklahoma.
Requirements for a Simplified Divorce in Oklahoma
To apply for a simplified divorce in Oklahoma, both spouses must satisfy the following criteria:
- Mutual Agreement: Both parties must be in agreement about the divorce.
- No Minor Children: The marriage must not involve any minor children.
- Absence of Pregnancy: Neither party should be pregnant.
- Minimum Duration of Marriage: The marriage must have been recognized by the state of Oklahoma for at least six months.
If these requirements are met, the couple may proceed with a simplified divorce.
A Closer Look at the Step-By-Step Process for a Simplified Divorce
To obtain a simplified divorce in Oklahoma, you will need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Draft a Divorce Petition
To initiate the simplified divorce process, the first step is to draft and file a divorce petition. This petition can be crafted with the assistance of an attorney or obtained from an online legal document service. The petition must include a statement clarifying the reason for the divorce and asserting that both parties are in agreement.
Step 2: File the Petition with the Court
After preparing the petition, it must be filed with the court. Typically, the filing fee for a simplified divorce in Oklahoma is around $200. Once the petition has been filed, the clerk of court will set a court date for the proceedings.
Step 3: Serve the Other Party
Following the filing of the petition, it is crucial to inform the other party about the divorce proceedings. This is accomplished through a process called service, which can be done by mail or in-person. If the other party is served by mail, they must sign an acknowledgement of service form, which should subsequently be filed with the court.
Step 4: Attend the Court Hearing
Both parties are required to attend the court hearing. During this hearing, the judge will review the divorce petition to ensure that both parties agree to the divorce and that the necessary requirements for a simplified divorce have been met. If all is in order, the judge will issue a final divorce decree.
Step 5: Finalize the Divorce Decree
Once the decree has been issued, the couple must wait for a duration of 30 days before the divorce is considered final. After this waiting period has elapsed, the couple can obtain a certified copy of the divorce decree from the court.
Benefits of Opting for a Simplified Divorce
Choosing a simplified divorce in Oklahoma offers various advantages, including:
- Time Efficiency: Simplified divorces can be completed much more quickly compared to traditional divorces, saving valuable time for both parties involved.
- Lower Costs: With reduced legal procedures and the absence of extended court appearances, simplified divorces come with lower costs, allowing both parties to save money on attorney fees and court expenses.
- Decreased Stress: As simplified divorces do not typically involve complex legal battles or lengthy proceedings, they are considerably less stressful than their traditional counterparts.
Conclusion
Obtaining a simplified divorce in Oklahoma can be a straightforward process that offers immense benefits, such as saving time, money, and reducing stress. By working together amicably, both parties can dissolve their marriage expeditiously without the need for extensive court appearances or emotional legal battles. It is important to remember, however, that every divorce case is unique, and the process for obtaining a simplified divorce in Oklahoma may vary based on individual circumstances. Therefore, consulting an attorney or legal professional is crucial to ensure that your divorce is properly finalized and complies with all legal requirements.