Whoever chooses to file for divorce in Oklahoma City first is referred to as the petitioner, while his or her spouse is the respondent. Filing early for divorce means you pay the filing fee. However, being the first to file for divorce in Oklahoma City can offer a strategic advantage. One distinct advantage is that the family court listens to your petition first before the other side gets to present their arguments.
Presenting first sets the tone of the trial. You have the advantage of first impressions, which can be lasting. The proceedings in a fault or a no-fault divorce can be tipped heavily in your favor if you present first and have a lasting impression.
Get a Home Field Advantage
When you file first for divorce, you establish jurisdiction. So as long as you have fulfilled residency requirements, go ahead and file for divorce in Oklahoma City.
Filing first will work well in your favor if your spouse has moved and you get the home-field advantage. You should file for divorce in the county where you live to get this home-field advantage.
Nonetheless, the advantage you get for filling in your home field will not be well exploited if you go to trial without a skilled attorney at your side. Talk to a divorce lawyer in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and use the advantage of your home field.
Timing Advantages
Carefully choosing when to file for divorce in Oklahoma certainly does have advantages. You can decide to file when you have a positive status quo or a situation that is favoring you.
Here are two scenarios that you can exploit to your favor.
- Suppose you are a dependent spouse and your partner decides to cut off support. An excellent strategy would be to file immediately for divorce. This will work to your advantage, because you will be able to demonstrate a need for support. The first hearing after filing for divorce is for temporary orders, and you can make your request for continued support when you show up in court.
- If you have been supporting a spouse, do not file as soon as the two of you go your separate ways. Give your spouse time to get established as a wage earner. You will be relieved of your responsibility to support during the hearing when you wait until your spouse is established as a worker.
Low-cost Consultation: Oklahoma City Divorce Attorney
When you finally agree with your spouse to go your separate ways, so much is at stake. Irrespective of whether you are going for an agreed or a contested divorce, you can use strategy to have a sway on the outcome of your divorce. Let our experienced Oklahoma City divorce attorney handle your matter. A skilled and knowledgeable attorney provides you with the confidence you need to move forward.
We offer initial consultations at no cost. Discover how our family law experts can help you through a difficult time.
For a initial consultation with a qualified Oklahoma City divorce attorney, call 405-880-8222 today.
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