By G.W. Schulz
Oklahoma ranks as one of the highest in the nation for domestic abuse and violence. Fortunately, if you’re escaping an abusive relationship or marriage, you have new legal protections. They’re contained in what’s known as Alanda’s Law, which was passed by the Oklahoma Legislature in 2024. The name commemorates a victim of abuse named Alanda Bradshaw.
Alanda’s Law requires that courts move faster in setting a hearing on temporary custody for kids within 10 days of the request. You become eligible for such an order if you’ve made allegations of domestic abuse or your partner was charged with domestic abuse. “This closes a loophole that abusers once used to stall proceedings and delay justice,” said the bill’s author, Oklahoma state Rep. Erick Harris. “For many survivors, time is the difference between safety and danger. [This law] gives families a faster pathway to protection, reducing one of the many barriers survivors face when trying to escape violence.”
What else can trigger a temporary custody order? The list includes child endangerment, parent with a mental illness, substance abuse, child neglect, and abduction. If you go to court over the temporary order, a judge will decide whether to grant it. Foremost on the judge’s mind will be the best interests of the child.
Wish
Later in your custody case, what will the court also take into consideration?
- Wishes of the child
- Whether the home is stable
- School and outside activities
- Other family members
- Making custody final
State Rep. Harris said in promoting the Oklahoma bill that abuse isn’t only physical. Financial and psychological abuse can ruin lives. It can take the form of controlling someone through banking, belittling or gaslighting.
Now
Is your marriage coming to an end? Is there conflict over child custody? First, you’re not a bad parent. But you do need someone who will fight for you beginning now.
Let Joe Norwood be your sword and shield in court. Call upon him to tell your side of the story. Let Joe get your life and family back. Call 918-582-6464 to tell Joe what happened to you. Norwood.Law also practices business law, personal injury, family, and more. Need help with a will, trust, or estate? We do those, too.
Stalked
Abuse isn’t just violence. It also takes the form of stalking, an abuse expert named Kayla Woody wrote for The Oklahoman in 2025. Most victims know their stalker. It can include device tracking, harassing messages, and unwanted gifts. Woody wrote that abuse and stalking are about control and power. If you’re a victim of stalking, document occurrences if possible. Changing your routines can also help.
“Driving different routes to work and turning off location services on digital devices can help minimize risk,” Woody wrote.
Alanda
Oklahoma state Rep. Erick Harris said in public statements that his bill on temporary custody makes it easier for women to find help quickly. Said Rep. Harris: “For victims of domestic violence, the timing of a judge’s availability should not be a barrier.” “The most dangerous moment for a domestic violence victim is when they try to leave their abuser. Alanda’s Law protects victims and their families during this critical time.”
Joseph M. Norwood is a Tulsa attorney with the courtroom expertise you need. Contact his office at 918-582-6464.