Hearings in the Oklahoma Divorce Process: What to Expect

Mar 19

By Travis Vernier, Esq. – Bennett Vernier, PLLC

Court hearings play a critical role in the Oklahoma divorce process. Whether your case involves child custody, spousal support, asset division, or temporary orders, hearings provide the legal framework to resolve disputes and move toward finalizing your divorce.

Because every county and judge may have different procedures, it’s essential to understand what to expect and how to prepare for these legal proceedings.

What Are Divorce Hearings?

A hearing is a formal court proceeding where legal matters—ranging from temporary custody arrangements to financial disputes—are presented and decided upon.

✅ Some hearings are brief and procedural, while others require formal presentation of evidence and testimony.
✅ The number of hearings varies—some cases require multiple hearings, while others may only need one or two.
✅ Preparation is key—your attorney will present arguments, submit evidence, and advocate for your interests before the judge.

Key Hearings in an Oklahoma Divorce

1️⃣ Parenting Plan Conference (For Divorces Involving Children)

If joint custody is requested, both parents must submit a parenting plan detailing:

✔ Custody and visitation schedules.
✔ Medical and dental insurance arrangements.
✔ Education plans and child support obligations.

📌 What to Expect:

A court referee oversees the conference, aiming to establish temporary orders.
Parents are encouraged to agree on a plan to avoid further litigation.
If no agreement is reached, the case moves to a formal hearing before the judge.

2️⃣ Temporary Orders Hearing

Temporary orders establish rules and responsibilities while the divorce is pending. These orders may cover:

✔ Child custody and support.
✔ Spousal support (alimony).
✔ Who remains in the marital home.
✔ Payment of household expenses and debts.

📌 For self-employed spouses, financial matters may require additional documentation and a longer hearing.

3️⃣ Scheduling Conference

This early-stage hearing establishes important deadlines, including:

✔ Completion of discovery (evidence gathering).
✔ Mediation deadlines.
✔ Settlement conference dates.
✔ Potential trial dates.

📌 Why It Matters:

Ensures both parties stay on track with the legal process.
Helps the court manage case progression efficiently.

4️⃣ Status Conference

A status conference is an informal check-in where the judge reviews:

✔ Progress on discovery (exchange of financial records, evidence, etc.).
✔ Mediation efforts and settlement discussions.
✔ Remaining unresolved issues.

📌 Why It Matters:

The judge may encourage further negotiations or order mediation if settlement is possible.
Helps avoid unnecessary delays in the divorce process.

5️⃣ Pre-Trial Hearing

If settlement is not possible, the court schedules a pre-trial hearing to discuss:

✔ Pre-trial motions (requests to exclude evidence, compel discovery, etc.).
✔ Logistics of the trial (witness lists, key legal arguments, and exhibits).

📌 Why It Matters:

Prepares both sides for trial.
Gives the judge a preview of key contested issues.

6️⃣ Divorce Trial

If no settlement is reached, the case goes to trial—a lengthy, formal hearing where:

✔ Each party presents witnesses and evidence.
✔ Attorneys argue for custody, asset division, and support arrangements.
✔ The judge makes a final ruling, which becomes part of the divorce decree.

📌 Fact: Divorce trials can last multiple days and significantly increase legal costs. Most cases settle before trial to save time and money.

Why You Need an Attorney for Divorce Hearings

Court hearings can be stressful and legally complex. Having an experienced Oklahoma divorce attorney by your side ensures that:

✔ Your case is properly prepared.
✔ Evidence is presented effectively.
✔ You understand your rights and options at every stage.

Take Control of Your Divorce – Get Legal Help Today

If you’re facing a divorce hearing in Oklahoma, proper preparation is essential to securing the best outcome. At Bennett Vernier, PLLC, we provide aggressive representation to protect your interests.

📞 Call (405) 456-0404 today to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Oklahoma divorce attorney.

💼 Make informed decisions and protect your future. Contact Bennett Vernier, PLLC today.