Oregon Divorce Lawyers
Experienced Family Law Attorneys Serving Clients Statewide
Divorce is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. Between emotional strain and financial uncertainty, it can be overwhelming to make sound decisions about your future. At Romano Law, we have helped Oregon clients navigate the divorce process for more than twenty years. Our attorneys provide clear advice, strong advocacy, and a practical plan for protecting your rights and assets.
We represent clients throughout Oregon, including most frequently Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Deschutes, Lane, Marion, and Yamhill counties.
Understanding Oregon Divorce Law
Oregon divorces are governed by Chapter 107 of the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS). When a spouse files a petition for dissolution of marriage, the court must also decide related issues such as custody, support, and division of property.
Key Issues in an Oregon Divorce
Child custody and parenting time
Child support under Oregon’s guidelines
Spousal support (alimony), including amount and duration
Division of marital property and debts
Responsibility for attorney fees and court costs
Oregon is a no-fault divorce state, meaning neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing. It is enough to state that irreconcilable differences have caused the permanent breakdown of the marriage.
The Oregon Divorce Process
Step 1: Filing and Service
One spouse (the petitioner) files a petition with the circuit court and serves it on the other spouse (the respondent). The petition includes claims for custody, support, property division, and other relief.
Step 2: Response
The respondent has 30 days to file a written response to the petition. If no response is filed, the petitioner can request a default judgment. Courts prefer timely participation, but a response is required to preserve rights.
Step 3: Temporary Orders
Either party can request temporary orders for custody, parenting time, child support, spousal support, or use of the marital home while the case is pending. These are called pendente lite orders, meaning they apply while litigation is pending.
Step 4: Discovery
Both parties exchange financial information such as tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and retirement account records. The purpose of discovery is to ensure full financial transparency so both sides understand the marital estate before negotiation or trial.
Step 5: Mediation and Settlement
Most Oregon divorce cases are resolved through mediation or direct negotiation. When the parties reach an agreement, they sign a Stipulated General Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage that becomes legally binding once entered by the court.
Step 6: Trial and Judgment
If the parties cannot agree, the court will hold a trial. After hearing testimony and reviewing evidence, the judge issues findings of fact and a General Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage, which formally ends the marriage and establishes each party’s rights and obligations.
Step 7: Post-Judgment Issues
After the divorce is finalized, disputes may arise regarding enforcement or modification of the judgment. Common post-judgment matters include contempt proceedings, motions to modify custody or parenting time, motions to modify custody or support, and enforcement of property division.
Practical Considerations in Oregon Divorce Cases
Custody and Parenting Time
Oregon courts base custody decisions on the best interests of the children. Judges evaluate factors such as each parent’s involvement, ability to cooperate, and history of caregiving. Parents are encouraged to develop a detailed parenting plan that defines regular and holiday schedules, communication expectations, and decision-making authority.
Child Support
Child support is determined using the Oregon Child Support Guidelines, which consider income, health insurance costs, parenting time, and childcare expenses. Courts can deviate from the guideline amount if a parent shows good cause for an adjustment.
Spousal Support
Oregon recognizes several types of spousal support: transitional, compensatory, and maintenance. The duration and amount depend on factors such as the length of the marriage, earning capacities, and each party’s financial needs.
Property Division
Oregon follows the principle of equitable distribution. All property acquired during the marriage is presumed to be jointly owned and subject to fair division. The court considers contributions of both spouses, whether financial or non-financial, and evaluates any separate property brought into the marriage.
Debts and Expenses
Debts incurred during the marriage are typically divided along with assets. The court may also determine who will pay attorney fees, expert witness fees, and court costs.
Why Choose Romano Law
Over 20 years of Oregon family law experience
More than 250 jury and bench trials statewide
10,000+ hours in Oregon courtrooms
Member of the Oregon State Bar Family Law Section, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and Multnomah County Bar Association
Reasonably priced consultations to review your case and explain your options
Our attorneys combine deep legal knowledge with compassionate representation to help you reach a fair resolution and move forward with confidence.
Talk With an Oregon Divorce Lawyer
If you are facing divorce anywhere in Oregon, we can help. Call 503-208-5529 or send us a message to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Oregon divorce attorney.