What is the Best Interests of the Child Standard in Oklahoma?

Best Interests of the Child

In any child custody, guardianship, or visitation case in Oklahoma, the court’s guiding principle is always the best interests of the child. While both parents may have strong opinions about what’s best, the judge must evaluate all relevant facts to determine what outcome will most benefit the child’s safety, stability, and emotional well-being. Understanding this […]

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How to Terminate a Contractor in Oklahoma After Breach—and What It Means Legally

Terminate A Contractor

We often get questions about whether it’s possible to terminate a contractor in Oklahoma. When a contractor doesn’t live up to their end of the bargain—missing deadlines, using subpar materials, or walking off the job—it can cause serious frustration, financial loss, and even legal complications. Here’s what Oklahoma property owners and business clients need to […]

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Can You Recover Attorney’s Fees in a Contractor Dispute in Oklahoma?

Attorney’s Fees in a Contractor Dispute

We often get calls from homeowners and business owners asking whether they can recover their attorney’s fees after a dispute with a contractor. Whether the issue involves poor workmanship, delays, or a complete breach of contract, hiring a lawyer to resolve the matter can be expensive. So it’s natural to wonder—if you win your case, […]

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Suing a Contractor for Defective Work in Oklahoma: Your Legal Options

Suing a Contractor for Defective Work

If you’re suing a contractor for defective work, it’s important to understand your legal options. When you hire a contractor to build, repair, or renovate your home or business, you expect the work to meet a reasonable standard of quality. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. If a contractor delivers defective or substandard work in Oklahoma, […]

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How to Avoid Probate in Oklahoma: 5 Legal Strategies That Work

It is possible to avoid probate in Oklahoma through various estate planning strategies. Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s assets are distributed under court supervision. While probate can be necessary in some cases, it can also be time-consuming and costly. There are several methods to bypass the probate process, allowing for a more efficient transfer of assets to beneficiaries. Methods to Avoid Probate If you’re wanting to avoid the probate process, you have some options, such as: Revocable Living Trust: A revocable living trust is a legal document that places your assets into a trust during your lifetime. You retain control over the trust and can make changes or revoke it as needed. Upon your death, the successor trustee (whom you designate) transfers the assets to the beneficiaries without the need for probate. Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship: Joint tenancy allows two or more individuals to own property together with equal rights. Upon the death of one owner, the property automatically passes to the surviving owner(s). This transfer occurs outside of probate, provided the right of survivorship is clearly stated in the property deed. Transfer on Death (TOD) Deeds: Oklahoma allows for Transfer on Death Deeds, which let you name a beneficiary who will receive your real estate upon your death. You retain full ownership and control of the property during your lifetime. Upon your death, the property transfers to the named beneficiary without probate. Beneficiary Designations: Certain assets, such as life insurance policies and retirement accounts allow you to name a beneficiary directly. These assets transfer directly to the named beneficiaries upon your death, bypassing probate. Small Estate Affidavit: Oklahoma law allows for a simplified probate process for small estates, typically those valued at $50,000 or less. Heirs can use a small estate affidavit to claim the decedent’s assets without going through formal probate. This simplifies the process and reduces costs for small estates. If you’re considering one of these options, or others, consult with an estate planning attorney. Not only will they be able to explain all of the options, they’ll also be able to look at your situation and tell you which is best for you. Considerations When Avoiding Probate However, if you’re wanting to avoid probate, there are things you need to think about ahead of time. Legal Compliance: Ensure that all methods and documents comply with Oklahoma laws to avoid complications. Tax Implications: Understand the tax consequences of transferring assets, especially with gifting and trusts. Proper Documentation: Keep all documents, such as deeds, beneficiary designations, and trust agreements, up to date and legally valid. Work with an estate planning attorney to ensure your estate plan effectively avoids probate and meets your goals. Oklahoma City Estate Planning Attorneys Avoid probate

It is possible to avoid probate in Oklahoma through various estate planning strategies. Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s assets are distributed under court supervision. While probate can be necessary in some cases, it can also be time-consuming and costly. There are several methods to bypass the probate process, allowing for a […]

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Recovering Cost of Hiring a New Contractor After a Breach in Oklahoma

Civil Trial

A common expense after a breach of contract is the cost of hiring a new contractor to complete or redo the job. When a contractor fails to complete a project or performs work that is substandard, Oklahoma law provides remedies to help property owners recover damages. This article explains your rights, what you can recover, […]

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