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FAQs

  • By legal statute, OFR only handles juvenile deprived cases subject to Title 10A. OFR contractors are appointed by the judge presiding over 10A cases based on low-income status.
  • If your child has been removed recently and is temporarily in the care of family or foster care, your case is likely handled by OFR.
  • If the court has determined that your child has reached “permanency” through adoption or a Title 30 Guardianship, your case has likely advanced beyond Title 10A.
  • We do not handle Title 30 Guardianship cases.
  • We do not handle adoption cases.
  • OFR lawyers are appointed by the court. We cannot assign lawyers to cases.
  • Each judge has a different way of determining low-income status. If your judge has determined that you do not qualify for a court-appointed lawyer, we cannot change their decision.
  • However, if your financial situation has changed, you can (and should) reapply for a court-appointed lawyer.
  • If you do not have the contact information of your attorney, email ofr@laok.org and we will connect you to your lawyer.
  • If your child is removed, their initial hearing will take place within 48 hours of removal.
  • Call the attorney that has been assigned to you as soon as you receive their contact information.
  • Let your attorney know if you have a visitation schedule from the court, are participating in any services, and if you are an Indian Tribe member.
  • Keep all documents relevant to the reasons your child was removed and your progress, if possible.
  • Let your attorney know of any relatives or close friends that are good for the placement of your children.
  • By law, DHS should prioritize placement with family or kinship.
  • Ask your attorney for a declaration of kinships persons, and the notice of rights. Complete these documents and return them to your attorney & DHS.
  • Take notes during hearings and meetings. Let your attorney know about any DHS meetings.
  • If your child is adjudicated deprived, you may receive a treatment plan.
  • The court will review your case every 6 months or sooner.
  • While your child is out of the home, it is important to actively communicate with DHS and your attorney about your progress, visitation, and your ultimate case goals.

You have the right to:

  • Have an attorney and to consult with your attorney outside of court;
  • Request visitation/family time with your children, to bring gifts, send mail and make phone calls to your children unless limited by the Court;
  • You should get copies of all the documents in your case, including your Treatment Plan/Service Plan;
  • You will receive notice of any Court action that affects your children;
  • You may participate in court hearings with your Attorney’s help;
  • You may appeal some decisions of the Court;
  • You are entitled to an interpreter, if needed;
  • You should be informed about your children’s placement, health, development, behavior, and school activities;
  • You should work with the services on your treatment plan;
  • You should actively maintain contact with your attorney and DHS caseworker;
  • You have the responsibility to advocate for yourself in a way others will listen to you.
  • If termination of parental rights is requested, you have a right to a jury trial.
  • If you can not attend, you have the right to instruct your attorney to proceed with a jury trial in your absence.
  • While we can’t appoint a lawyer to help you, there are still resources available for you. 
  • If you have an active case in deprived court and believe you meet the income requirements for a court-appointed lawyer, see the court clerk and request a pauper’s affidavit. If the judge approves your application, you will be appointed a lawyer.
  • If you have a custody case that is not an active 10A case, there may be local legal resources available for you. Search for your county’s bar association to see if they have a lawyer referral program. 
  • No. OFR lawyers are appointed by Oklahoma judges. Our office cannot appoint a lawyer to you.

I am interested in contracting with OFR as an attorney.
Contact the managing attorney for your region of interest.

I am interested in contracting with OFR as a social worker.
Contact the director of social work for your region of interest.

I am interested in contracting with OFR as a parent mentor.
Contact the director of social work for your region of interest.