US Legal Forms
Legal Resources
Questions & Answers
Minors
What is the punishment for child non-support in Oklahoma?

What is the punishment for child non-support in Oklahoma?

Full question:

My son is not and his wife decided to end their marriage and leave their 5 year old kid with us for some time. Now both don't want to take the kid back. They refuse to provide monetary help to us for taking care of their child. I have no means to support this child. I would like to know the punishment for not giving child support to a minor in Oklahoma.

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Support
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Oklahoma

Answer:

In Oklahoma, it is an offense (felony) for a parent to leave or neglect his/her child (minor or child below the age of 15 years). You may file a complaint against your son and his (ex) wife for neglecting their child and refusing to provide for and maintaining their child who is below the age of 15 years. Your son and his (ex) wife may face imprisonment up to 10 years for not supporting their child.

21 Okl. St. § 853 says:

“Desertion of Wife or Child Under 15 -- Penalty

Every person who shall without good cause abandon his wife in destitute or necessitous circumstances and neglect and refuse to maintain or provide for her, or who shall abandon his or her minor child or children under the age of fifteen (15) years and willfully neglect or refuse to maintain or provide for such child or children, shall be deemed guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment in the State Penitentiary for any period of time not less than one (1) year or more than ten (10) years.”

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What to do if your wife leaves and takes the kids?

If your wife leaves with the kids, it's important to first seek legal advice to understand your rights. You may want to file for custody or visitation rights in family court. Document all interactions and attempts to communicate with your wife regarding the children. Consider mediation to resolve disputes amicably. If necessary, you can also seek child support to help with the financial aspects of raising your children. Always prioritize the best interests of the children in any decisions made.

How do I help my son go through divorce?

Supporting your son during his divorce involves being a good listener and providing emotional support. Encourage him to express his feelings and seek professional counseling if needed. Help him understand the legal process and consider assisting him in finding a qualified attorney. Practical support, like helping with childcare or daily tasks, can also relieve stress. Remind him to focus on self-care and maintaining a healthy routine during this challenging time.

How to help kids go through divorce?

Helping children through a divorce requires open communication and reassurance. Encourage them to express their feelings and validate their emotions. Maintain routines to provide a sense of stability and security. Consider involving a child therapist to help them process their experiences. Keep discussions about the divorce age-appropriate and avoid placing blame. Ensure they know both parents love them and are committed to their well-being.

How to support a son going through divorce?

To support your son during his divorce, listen to his concerns without judgment. Offer emotional support and encourage him to talk about his feelings. Help him navigate the legal aspects by suggesting he consult an attorney. Provide practical assistance, like helping with household chores or childcare, to ease his burden. Remind him to take care of himself and consider joining support groups for additional encouragement.

How to help an adult child go through divorce financially?

To assist your adult child financially during their divorce, discuss their budget and necessary expenses. Offer to help with immediate costs, such as legal fees or housing, if possible. Encourage them to explore financial counseling to manage their finances effectively. Help them identify assets and liabilities to ensure a fair division during the divorce process. Providing emotional support can also alleviate some financial stress.

How does divorce impact adult children?

Divorce can significantly impact adult children, leading to emotional distress, anxiety, and feelings of loss. They may struggle with changes in family dynamics and financial stability. Adult children might also feel caught in the middle, especially if parents are in conflict. It's important for them to have open communication with both parents and seek support from friends or professionals to navigate their feelings during this transition.