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Lisa R. Howard has helped many families through adoption and family services. She understands the stress, pain, and disappointment that is too often accompanied in this area. You should not have to face these legal processes and decisions alone and Oklahoma-native Lisa R. Howard can help you through every step of the way in the adoption process. If you are in need of representation or consultation from a local Oklahoma law firm, don’t hesitate to contact Lisa R. Howard today. We’re ready to help you!

Private Adoption/Foster Care

Private adoption and foster care provide significant pathways to forming a family, each with distinct processes, benefits, and challenges. These routes not only involve legal transactions but also deeply personal journeys that transform lives. In Oklahoma, families considering these options can rely on experienced adoption attorneys from Lisa R. Howard PLLC to help guide these critical life decisions.

Private Adoption

Private adoption, also known as independent adoption, involves direct arrangements between expectant parents and prospective adoptive parents without the primary involvement of state-run agencies. This method allows for a more personal and immediate connection, fostering a foundation of mutual understanding and respect between families. In Oklahoma, private adoption is a popular choice for those who seek a more controlled and personalized adoption process.

In Oklahoma, prospective adoptive parents must meet specific requirements to ensure that they are prepared to provide a loving and stable home for a child. These requirements include:

  • Minimum Age Requirement: In Oklahoma, prospective adoptive parents must be at least 21 years old to adopt a child. This age requirement ensures that adoptive parents have reached a level of maturity and stability necessary for raising a child.
  • Background Checks: All prospective adoptive parents must undergo thorough background checks to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. This process includes criminal history checks and evaluations for any history of child abuse or neglect. These checks are vital in safeguarding the child’s future and ensuring they are placed in a secure environment.
  • Home Study: Completing a detailed home study is essential. This study evaluates the adoptive family’s living conditions, financial stability, and readiness to adopt. It involves interviews, home visits, and assessments conducted by a licensed professional. The home study ensures that the adoptive home is safe, supportive, and prepared for the responsibilities of parenting.
  • Financial Stability: While adoptive parents do not need to be wealthy, they must demonstrate the ability to provide for the child’s physical and emotional needs. This includes having a stable income and a secure living environment. Financial stability ensures that the adoptive parents can meet the child’s basic needs and provide a comfortable, nurturing home.
  • Emotional Readiness: Adoptive parents must show that they are emotionally prepared to welcome a child into their family. This involves understanding the challenges and responsibilities that come with adoption and having a supportive environment for the child. Emotional readiness is crucial for creating a loving and resilient family dynamic.
  • Marital Status: Unlike some jurisdictions, Oklahoma does not impose specific marital status requirements for adoptive parents. Both single individuals and married couples are eligible to adopt, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria. The primary focus is on the ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment for the child, rather than the adoptive parents’ marital status.

The journey of private adoption in Oklahoma begins with the matching process. The goal is to find a compatible match that aligns with the emotional and practical needs of both parties. This delicate process ensures that the lifestyles, values, and preferences of both families are harmoniously aligned, promoting a smooth transition and fostering a lasting relationship.

Following a successful match, the next critical step is the home study. Conducted by a licensed professional, the home study is a comprehensive evaluation that assesses the prospective adoptive parents’ living environment, lifestyle, financial stability, and overall readiness to welcome a child into their family. In Oklahoma, this evaluation is governed by state statutes, primarily outlined in Title 10 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which ensure that every adoptive home meets the necessary standards of safety and support.

Once the home study is approved, the process moves forward with the birth parents providing written consent for the adoption. This consent is a vital legal document that authorizes the adoption proceedings. The final stage involves legal proceedings where a judge reviews all documentation and consents to finalize the adoption. This step solidifies the adoptive parents’ rights and responsibilities, ensuring that the adoption is legally binding and recognized under Oklahoma law.

Foster Care

Foster care serves as a temporary safe haven for children who cannot safely reside with their biological parents. The system emphasizes the child’s safety and well-being, with the primary aim of reunification with their biological family. However, in situations where reunification is not feasible, foster care can serve as a pathway to adoption, offering children a permanent and loving home.

In Oklahoma, the foster care system is overseen by the Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS), which ensures that children receive the care and support they need during their time in foster care. The role of foster care extends beyond providing a temporary home; foster parents are tasked with offering stability, love, and support to children during turbulent times. They become a crucial part of the child’s life, helping them navigate their emotions and experiences while maintaining a sense of normalcy and security.

While the initial goal is reunification with the biological family, various factors can influence the outcome. Situations such as prolonged parental issues, substance abuse, or neglect may lead to the decision that reunification is not in the best interest of the child. In such cases, foster parents might have the opportunity to adopt, thereby providing a permanent and stable family bond.

Becoming a foster parent in Oklahoma involves a rigorous assessment process designed to ensure that only qualified and dedicated individuals are entrusted with the care of vulnerable children. The eligibility criteria include:

  • Completion of Mandatory Training: Prospective foster parents must undergo comprehensive training programs that equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to care for children in foster care. These training sessions cover topics such as child development, trauma-informed care, and effective parenting strategies. The training ensures that foster parents are prepared to meet the diverse needs of foster children.
  • Home Study: Similar to private adoption, a home study is conducted to evaluate the prospective foster parents’ living environment, lifestyle, and readiness to care for a child. This assessment includes interviews, home visits, and reviews of financial and personal stability. The home study ensures that the foster home meets all safety and support standards necessary for fostering a child.
  • Background Checks: Extensive background checks are mandatory to ensure the safety of the children. This includes criminal history checks, child abuse and neglect registry checks, and references from personal and professional contacts. These checks are crucial in protecting the welfare of the child and ensuring they are placed in a safe environment.
  • Financial Stability and Emotional Resilience: Foster parents must demonstrate financial stability to provide for the child’s needs and emotional resilience to handle the challenges that may arise in caring for a child from a disrupted background. Financial stability ensures that the foster parents can meet the child’s basic needs, while emotional resilience helps in managing the complexities of fostering.
  • Commitment to Care: A genuine commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment is essential. Foster parents must be prepared to invest time, energy, and love into helping a child thrive. This commitment is fundamental in creating a positive and lasting impact on the child’s life.

These stringent requirements ensure that foster parents are capable of providing a safe, stable, and supportive environment for children in need.

How the Law Firm Can Help

Lisa R. Howard PLLC offers a wide range of legal services tailored to the unique needs of families engaged in private adoption and foster care. The firm’s commitment to supporting families throughout their adoption journey ensures that all legal processes are handled with care, precision, and a deep understanding of Oklahoma’s legal requirements.

  • Guiding Legal Pathways: The firm provides clear and concise guidance through the various legal procedures involved in private adoption and foster care. This includes helping families understand their rights, obligations, and the steps required to ensure a smooth and lawful adoption process.
  • Facilitation of Adoption Legal Proceedings: The firm plays a pivotal role in representing families during legal proceedings. This ensures that all legal requirements are met and that the adoption or foster care process is finalized efficiently and correctly.
  • Open Adoption Agreements: For families opting for open adoptions, the firm assists in negotiating and drafting agreements that respect the wishes of both birth and adoptive parents. This fosters a respectful and communicative relationship that benefits the child by maintaining connections to their biological heritage.
  • Foster Care to Adoption Transitions: When foster care transitions to adoption, Lisa R. Howard PLLC provides essential legal support to help foster parents navigate this process. This includes handling court filings, and ensuring that all legal steps are completed to make the foster child a permanent member of the family.
  • ICWA Compliance: In cases involving Native American children, the firm ensures strict adherence to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). This includes respecting cultural heritage, involving tribal communities in the adoption process, and ensuring that all legal requirements specific to ICWA cases are met.

Your Family’s Next Step

Building a loving family through private adoption or foster care can bring lasting fulfillment, and having the right legal support ensures a stable beginning for this new chapter. With Lisa R. Howard PLLC by your side, the legal processes are handled with care and compliance, helping you focus on the well-being of your future child. Choose a path that leads to a secure, thriving family environment, and let our firm assist you in bringing your family dreams closer to reality—contact us today to begin.

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Step-Parent Adoption

Families come in many forms, and one increasingly common family structure includes a step-parent who plays a pivotal role in a child’s life. When a step-parent has been a reliable, loving presence, the decision to formalize this relationship through legal adoption can provide a sense of security and peace of mind. This is where support from a dedicated Oklahoma step-parent adoption attorney is invaluable.

Oklahoma Step-Parent Adoption

Step-Parent adoption refers to the legal procedure where a spouse of a child’s biological parent adopts the child, granting that step-parent full parental rights and responsibilities. With this adoption in place, the step-parent becomes the legal parent, and the child’s original non-custodial parent’s rights are typically terminated. By establishing this parent-child relationship under the law, the family achieves a greater sense of stability and legal certainty. Here are some key elements of step-parent adoption:

  • Voluntary Consent: The child’s non-custodial parent can consent to the adoption. If they refuse or are unavailable, courts will consider certain legal grounds to determine if the adoption should proceed.
  • Background Checks: Courts may require background checks or home studies in certain situations.
  • Legal Procedures: Proper documentation, hearings, and compliance with state statutes are necessary.
  • Permanent Relationship: Once finalized, the step-parent adoption is permanent, granting all the rights and responsibilities of a biological parent. This means that in the event that the original custodial parent were to pass away, the adopted parent would remain the child’s legal guardian.
  • Name Changes: A child’s surname can often be legally changed as part of this process, reflecting the new family structure.

Why Families Consider Step-Parent Adoption

Some may wonder why parents and children pursue step-parent adoption at all. A child who has grown up with a committed step-parent may already consider them to be a parental figure. Still, legal status has its own power and advantages. By pursuing an Oklahoma step-parent adoption you can:

  • Ensure the child’s ability to inherit from the step-parent without additional legal hurdles.
  • Provide the step-parent with the authority to make significant decisions on behalf of the child, such as educational and medical choices.
  • Offer a sense of belonging and unity for the child, strengthening family cohesion.
  • Reduce uncertainty by having both parents recognized legally, which can matter in emergencies and ensure that the step-parent’s role is acknowledged by schools, doctors, and other authorities.

Eligibility and Requirements

In Oklahoma, specific eligibility criteria must be met before courts will approve a step-parent adoption. The individual seeking to adopt must be married to the child’s custodial parent. Additionally, the adopting parent and the child must have lived together for a meaningful period, demonstrating a stable and ongoing parental relationship. Courts will consider the child’s best interests above all else.

Requirements often include:

  • Marriage to the Child’s Parent: The adoptive step-parent must be legally married to the custodial parent.
  • Consent from Non-Custodial Parent: If possible, the non-custodial parent must provide consent. Without it, the step-parent and custodial parent may need to present evidence that the adoption is warranted without consent.
  • Residency: There may be specific residency requirements set by Oklahoma law.
  • Background Checks and References: The court may ask for background checks to ensure the new adoptive parent can provide a safe environment.

By meeting these requirements, families can move forward confidently with an adoption attorney in Oklahoma who understands local statutes.

The Legal Process in Oklahoma

The process of completing a step-parent adoption in Oklahoma involves several steps designed to protect the child’s welfare. Proper planning and thorough preparation help ensure the procedure runs as smoothly as possible. If you are seeking guidance from an OKC adoption attorney, following these steps provides an overview of what to expect:

  • Filing the Petition: Your attorney files a petition with the court, requesting approval of the step-parent adoption.
  • Consent or Notice to the Non-Custodial Parent: The non-custodial parent is notified. If they do not consent, the court may hold a hearing to consider terminating their parental rights.
  • Home Study (If Required): Depending on the circumstances, a home study or background check may be needed. This helps the court confirm that the new adoptive parent provides a loving, stable home.
  • Court Hearing: A judge will review all documents, hear any testimony, and determine whether adoption is in the child’s best interest.
  • Issuance of Final Decree: Once approved, the judge issues a final decree of adoption, legally recognizing the step-parent as a full parent.

Having an Oklahoma City adoption attorney handle these steps often reduces worry, ensuring all documents and requirements are addressed thoroughly.

Challenges in Step-Parent Adoption

While step-parent adoption can provide lasting benefits, it may present obstacles.

  • Non-Custodial Parent Consent: If the other biological parent refuses to sign over their rights, it may require a separate court hearing to determine if their rights can be legally terminated, however it is still possible.
  • Complex Family Emotions: The adoption may stir strong emotions among family members, including extended relatives or the child’s biological relatives, so honest communication becomes key.
  • Gathering Required Documents: Ensuring that all necessary papers—marriage certificates, birth records, and consent forms—are correct and up-to-date may involve extra effort.
  • Court Procedures: Each case may require hearings, background checks, or home assessments, extending the timeline and adding steps that must be followed closely.

Acknowledging these challenges can help set realistic expectations. Families choosing an Oklahoma adoption attorney who is familiar with step-parent adoption cases can better anticipate issues and prepare accordingly.

How Lisa R. Howard PLLC Assists with Step-Parent Adoption

When seeking a professional who can guide you through the legal steps of a step-parent adoption, reach out to Lisa R. Howard PLLC in Oklahoma City. Our services provided in step-parent adoption cases include:

  • Initial Consultation: Determining eligibility and discussing your family’s goals.
  • Legal Document Preparation: Filing petitions, drafting consents, and ensuring compliance with all state laws.
  • Court Representation: Presenting your case to the judge and handling any hearings related to termination of parental rights.
  • Coordination with Agencies (If Needed): Managing required background checks or home studies.
  • Post-Adoption Support: Offering guidance on legal name changes, birth certificate amendments, and any follow-up concerns.

With thoughtful legal representation, families pursuing step-parent adoption can achieve successful step-parent adoptions that prioritize the child’s best interests. By choosing our dedicated legal professional, you gain an advocate who can assist in meeting all requirements, filing the correct paperwork, and addressing any potential hurdles. Contact us today and begin the journey toward a stronger, more secure structure for you and your family.

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Adult Adoption

Adult adoption is an option that can offer many families in Oklahoma an opportunity to formalize relationships that have grown naturally over many years. Whether it is a long-time caregiver who wants to become a recognized parent, a stepparent who has always acted like a mother or father, or close family friends who have forged strong parent-child bonds, adult adoption can provide legal security and peace of mind. Lisa R. Howard PLLC  understands how important it is for families to have the stability they deserve.

Oklahoma Adult Adoption

Adult adoption involves a legal proceeding where one adult becomes the parent of another adult. This process can be pursued for many reasons, such as ensuring inheritance rights, confirming parental responsibilities, or granting important decision-making authority if someone becomes incapacitated. For example:

  • A stepparent who raised a child from adolescence into adulthood may now wish to officially recognize that relationship through adoption.
  • A former foster parent, who maintained a loving connection with a now-grown individual, may choose to formalize that bond in the eyes of the court.
  • Families may seek to safeguard inheritance rights by making sure a loved one is legally considered a son or daughter.
  • Individuals might consider adult adoption to secure the right for a non-biological parent figure to have legal standing in medical or financial matters.

Whatever the reason, adult adoption reflects the understanding that families form in many ways, and the law can recognize those bonds to ensure better protection, clarity, and stability.

Eligibility Requirements and Considerations

In Oklahoma, adult adoption is a legally recognized process that allows one adult to adopt another adult, thereby creating a formal parent-child relationship. Unlike the adoption of a minor, adult adoption focuses on the voluntary agreement of both parties and does not typically involve terminating existing parental rights or conducting a home study. Instead, the law acknowledges that meaningful parental bonds can be formed or solidified even after a person reaches adulthood. Under Oklahoma statutes, the state provides a framework for these proceedings, ensuring that each step aligns with legal standards and respects the autonomy of the individuals involved.

To qualify for adult adoption in Oklahoma, the person being adopted must be at least 18 years old. Both the adopter and the adoptee must freely consent, confirming that they understand the permanent nature of the relationship and are entering it willingly.

After all necessary consents are gathered, the court will review whether the adoption is in the best interests of the parties. While the concept of “best interests” is more commonly associated with minor adoptions, the court still wants to ensure that the relationship being recognized is genuine, beneficial, and not pursued for unlawful purposes (for instance, to defraud creditors or avoid legal obligations).

Having an experienced adoption attorney in Oklahoma is invaluable. A legal professional can explain each requirement thoroughly, assist in preparing the necessary documents, and ensure that everyone involved fully understands their rights and responsibilities. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings, streamlines the legal process, and fosters confidence that the adoption decree will be upheld.

The Adoption Process in Oklahoma

The adult adoption process in Oklahoma begins with the preparation and filing of a petition in the district court. This petition sets forth essential details: the relationship between the adopter and the adult adoptee, the reasons for seeking the adoption, and any other relevant information the court may need. Unlike adopting a minor, where strict procedural steps and a thorough investigation are common, adult adoptions often face fewer procedural barriers since both parties are consenting adults capable of making informed decisions.

Once the petition is filed, the court schedules a hearing. Both parties—adopter and adoptee—generally appear before the judge to confirm their intent. During this hearing, the judge will review the petition, verify that all legal requirements are met, and ensure that each party understands the permanent implications of the adoption. If there are any outstanding issues, such as missing documentation or unclear consent forms, the judge may ask for clarification.

If the court finds that the adoption is appropriate and lawful, a final decree of adoption is issued. This decree grants the adoptee the same legal status as a biological child, including the right to inherit and the establishment of a parent-child relationship recognized by all relevant authorities. Estate plans may be updated accordingly, and both parties gain the peace of mind that comes with legal recognition. For those who have considered adult adoption for years—perhaps after decades of living together as family—this final decree provides a formal acknowledgment of what has long been understood privately.

Services Offered by Lisa R. Howard PLLC

We understand that while adult adoption often involves fewer procedural steps than minor adoption, it still requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of applicable laws. Our legal team provides comprehensive services to guide families through each stage of the adult adoption process. By taking a supportive and informed approach, we help clients feel confident that every aspect of their case is handled with diligence.

  • Legal Consultation:
    Before initiating any legal action, our OKC adoption attorney discusses the client’s circumstances, goals, and reasons for considering adult adoption. We explain the relevant statutes, confirm eligibility, and outline the steps required to complete the process. This initial consultation ensures that prospective clients can make informed decisions about whether adult adoption is right for them.
  • Document Preparation:
    Accuracy and thoroughness are crucial. We draft and review the adoption petition, consent forms, and any supplemental materials required by the court. Properly prepared documents help avoid delays or complications during the hearing and provide the court with all necessary information at the outset.
  • Representation in Court:
    We appear alongside our clients at the court hearing, ready to address the judge’s questions and clarify any potential concerns. By having a knowledgeable attorney present, parties can feel supported and prepared, knowing that their interests and intentions are clearly and legally articulated.
  • Post-Adoption Guidance:
    After the court issues the final decree, we assist clients in understanding how this legal change affects other areas of their lives. This may include updating wills, trusts, insurance beneficiaries, birth certificates, and other legal documents to reflect the new parent-child relationship. By offering guidance even after the proceedings conclude, we help ensure that clients take full advantage of the rights and protections that come with adult adoption.

Secure Your Family’s Future

Adult adoption in Oklahoma is a meaningful way to recognize a parent-child relationship that has grown over time, ensuring that crucial rights and responsibilities are protected under state law. By working with an experienced attorney from Lisa R. Howard PLLC, families seeking adoption in Oklahoma can benefit from personalized legal strategies, accurate document preparation, and supportive legal representation. Contact us today to discuss your options and move toward a more secure family future.

 

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Adoption

The Law Office of Lisa R. Howard has the experience and patience to best guide you through the complicated legal issues of Oklahoma adoption law.

Lisa is experienced in many types of adoptions and can help with the following:

  • Department of Human Services (DHS) adoptions
  • Foster care
  • Private adoptions
  • Step-parent adoptions
  • Grandparent adoptions
  • Interstate Compact of the Placement of Children (ICPC)
  • Domestic, Interstate, and International adoptions
  • Adult adoptions
  • Indian Law Adoptions

Lisa R. Howard will be there to support you through the entire adoption process with comfort, integrity, trust, and straightforward answers.

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Guardianship

Circumstances sometimes arise when individuals cannot fully care for themselves—this could be due to age, disability, or other factors that limit their ability to make important decisions. In such cases, a legal guardianship offers a structured way for someone else to protect the best interests of that person. At Lisa R. Howard PLLC, clients gain access to focused support in guardianship cases, ensuring that the process is handled thoroughly and that everyone’s rights and needs are respected. Whether you are a family member seeking to protect a vulnerable loved one, or you are looking into long-term plans for care, the goal is always to build a stable legal framework that promotes dignity and protection.

What Is Guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal status created by an Oklahoma court that authorizes a person, known as the guardian, to care for another individual, known as the ward. This arrangement might be set in place to protect a child whose parents cannot care for them or to assist an adult who cannot safely manage their affairs due to health concerns. Here are a few common scenarios:

  • Guardianship Over a Minor: If a child’s parents are unable to provide proper care, whether because of health issues, absence, or other serious factors, a guardian can step in to ensure that the child’s day-to-day needs and long-term interests are met.
  • Guardianship Over an Adult with Disabilities: When adults face conditions that prevent them from independently managing medical, financial, or housing decisions, a court-appointed guardian can provide guidance and safeguard their well-being.
  • Temporary or Emergency Guardianship: In urgent situations, a temporary guardian may be appointed to provide short-term care until a more permanent solution can be arranged.
  • Successor Guardianship: Sometimes an original guardian can no longer serve due to unforeseen changes, and a successor guardian must step in to maintain continuity in support and decision-making.

These forms of guardianship allow the legal system to establish a strong protective framework.

Eligibility and the Legal Process for Guardianship

Before setting out to become a guardian, you must understand the eligibility criteria and procedural steps. Guardians are often family members, but the court can appoint a qualified individual or even a professional guardian if no family member is available or appropriate. Eligibility typically requires:

  • Guardians must be at least 18 years old.
  • Prospective guardians should be able to demonstrate sound judgment and responsible decision-making.
  • Guardians must show genuine interest in the ward’s welfare and be prepared to commit time and resources to their care.

The process usually involves:

  • Filing a formal petition with the court specifying the need for guardianship and the proposed guardian’s qualifications.
  • Notifying immediate family members or interested parties about the guardianship petition.
  • Participating in a court investigation and hearing, where all interested parties can present evidence.
  • Awaiting the court’s decision, and if it serves the ward’s best interests, the court will appoint the guardian.

This thorough process ensures that the appointment is not arbitrary. It is intended to confirm that the guardian can truly serve the ward’s welfare.

How We Can Help

At Lisa R. Howard PLLC, the services surrounding guardianship are designed to offer tailored guidance and well-structured representation. These services include:

  • Initial Consultation and Case Assessment

We begin by scheduling a comprehensive consultation to understand your specific guardianship needs and the circumstances of the individual in question. During this meeting, we review any existing documents, discuss eligibility criteria, and identify potential challenges that may arise. We then work closely with you to clarify objectives and ensure that pursuing guardianship is the most appropriate solution. By the end of this consultation, you will have a clear roadmap and a realistic understanding of the steps moving forward.

  • Petition Preparation and Court Filings

After confirming that guardianship is the right legal avenue, we handle the meticulous preparation of all necessary legal documents. We gather and organize supporting evidence, draft the formal petition, and ensure all filings comply with Oklahoma statutory requirements. This process involves attention to detail and timely submission to avoid unnecessary delays. Once filed, we track all deadlines, notices, and responses, keeping you informed every step of the way.

  • Legal Representation and Court Advocacy

When it’s time to appear in court, we serve as your advocate, presenting a well-prepared case to the judge. We clearly articulate the need for guardianship, address any concerns, and respond to objections raised by other interested parties. By employing a professional, measured approach, we work to secure a favorable outcome that reflects the ward’s best interests. Throughout the hearing, our goal is to reduce your stress and ensure your voice is effectively heard before the court.

  • Post-Appointment Guidance and Compliance Support

Once the court grants guardianship, our services continue to help you fulfill all ongoing legal obligations. We provide guidance on maintaining accurate financial records, submitting annual reports, and adhering to all statutory requirements for guardianship oversight. Our Oklahoma City guardianship attorney is available to answer questions, advise on handling medical or educational decisions, and address any new challenges that arise. This ongoing support helps you confidently meet all responsibilities and protect the ward’s rights.

  • Transition Assistance and Alternative Legal Solutions
    Circumstances may change over time, and we remain by your side to navigate modifications, successor appointments, or even transitioning from guardianship to adoption if that becomes the appropriate path. We evaluate less restrictive alternatives, ensuring the arrangement continues to serve the ward’s evolving needs. Should guardianship no longer be required, our guardianship attorney in OKC will guide you through the legal process to terminate or revise the order. In all scenarios, our focus remains on helping you maintain a stable, secure environment for the ward’s long-term well-being.

Make A Caring Choice for Your Family’s Future

If you or your loved ones find yourselves in a situation where guardianship offers a stable path to care and protection, work with Lisa R. Howard PLLC. With a dedicated focus on family law matters, the firm provides support rooted in Oklahoma statutes, helping to ensure that guardianship proceedings are handled responsibly. Make a decision that supports long-term stability and safety. To learn more and begin your journey, contact us today.

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Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA)

The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) was established in 1978 to protect Indian children and focuses on their best interest within a cultural context. The ICWA applies in all cases where a child is a member of or eligible for membership in an Indian tribe.

Cases that deal with the ICWA can be confusing and stressful, which is why you shouldn’t go through it alone. An Oklahoma ICWA attorney such as Lisa R. Howard will be able to answer any of your questions or concerns.  Lisa is experienced in working with the ICWA both in Oklahoma District Court and Tribal Courts.  She is licensed to practice in all 77 counties in Oklahoma and in many Tribal Courts.

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Contact Lisa Today

Law Office of Lisa R. Howard PLLC
1435 N. Rockwell Ave.,
Oklahoma City, OK 73127

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 12428
Oklahoma City, OK 73157

Phone: (405) 943-2500
Mobile: (405) 249-3080
Email: lisa@attorneylisahoward.com

Disclaimer: The information contained in this Website is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter.