Bend Contested Divorce Attorney

Some requirements may include:

• Residency Requirements: To file for divorce in the state of Oregon, at least one spouse must be a state resident for at least six months before filing. If both spouses reside in Oregon, you may file for divorce in the county where either partner lives. If one spouse lives outside of Oregon, the divorce must be filed in the county where the Oregon-resident spouse resides.
• Grounds for Divorce: Oregon is considered a no-fault divorce state, meaning the only grounds required are irreconcilable differences that have led to the marriage breakdown. There is no need to prove that one spouse was at fault or to cite specific reasons like adultery or cruelty.
• Filing a Petition: The process begins when one spouse files a petition for divorce. This petition outlines the desired results for property division, child custody, support arrangements, and any other relevant matters. Once the petition is filed, the other spouse has the opportunity to respond, often disagreeing with some or all of the terms.
• Discovery Process: If disagreements arise, both parties will engage in a discovery process. This includes exchanging information and evidence that are related to finances, assets, debts, and child-related issues. Discovery is vital for making informed decisions regarding property distribution and support obligations.
• Mediation and Negotiation: In many cases, Oregon courts will require couples to attempt mediation before proceeding to trial. Mediation allows a chance for both parties to work with a neutral third party to resolve disputes and come to an agreement. If mediation fails, the contested issues will be taken to court.
• Trial: If negotiations and mediation do not result in a settlement, the case will then proceed to trial. During the trial, each spouse presents evidence and arguments before a judge, who will ultimately make conclusions on contested matters such as asset division, child custody, and spousal support.
• Final Judgment: After the trial, the judge will issue a final judgment that legally dissolves the marriage and resolves all outstanding issues. This judgment is binding on both parties, though it may be appealed in certain cases if one party believes there were legal errors made throughout the process.