WHAT TO EXPECT DURING
THE OREGON DIVORCE PROCESS

A Practical Roadmap Through Your Oregon Divorce

If you're considering a divorce in Oregon, you probably have a lot of questions—and it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed. Understanding what lies ahead can take some of the anxiety out of the process. At Crawley Law Office, we walk our family law clients through every stage so they feel informed and supported from start to finish.

Here's a practical, step-by-step look at how divorce works in Oregon—from the initial filing through the final judgment.

Oregon Is a No-Fault Divorce State—What Does That Mean?

Oregon is one of many states that only allows no-fault divorce. This means you don't need to prove wrongdoing like adultery or abuse to end your marriage. The only legal ground for divorce in Oregon is "irreconcilable differences." In practice, this means one spouse simply needs to state that the marriage can't be saved.

If you're just starting to think about whether divorce is right for your situation, our Divorce: The Basics page covers foundational concepts that can help you get oriented.

Step 1: Filing the Petition

The divorce process officially begins when one spouse (the "petitioner") files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the circuit court in the county where either spouse lives. In Lane County, this is filed at the Lane County Circuit Court.

The petition outlines what the filing spouse is requesting regarding property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support. There is a filing fee, which varies by county. In Lane County it is currently around $300.

Step 2: Serving Your Spouse

After filing, the other spouse (the "respondent") must be formally notified. This is called "service of process." Oregon law requires that the respondent receive a copy of the petition and a summons. Service can be done by a process server, by sheriff, or in some cases by certified mail. If your spouse agrees, they can also sign an acceptance of service.

The respondent then has 30 days to file a response with the court.

Step 3: Temporary Orders (If Needed)

Divorce can take months. During that time, important decisions still need to be made about who lives where, who pays what bills, and where the children stay. Either party can ask the court for temporary orders to address these issues while the divorce is pending. Temporary orders can cover custody and parenting time, temporary child or spousal support, use of the family home, and restraining orders if safety is a concern.

Step 4: Discovery and Financial Disclosure

Both spouses are required to exchange financial information. This phase, called "discovery," ensures that all assets, debts, income, and expenses are on the table. Oregon is an equitable distribution state, meaning property is divided fairly—though not always equally. Having complete, accurate financial records is critical to a fair outcome.

Not sure what documents you'll need? Our Documents Needed page has a helpful checklist, and the Uniform Support Declaration is one of the key forms you'll complete.

Step 5: Negotiation and Settlement

The vast majority of Oregon divorces—roughly 90% or more—settle before going to trial. Settlement can happen through direct negotiation between attorneys, mediation with a neutral third party, or a settlement conference facilitated by the court. Reaching an agreement on your terms gives you more control over the outcome and is usually less expensive and less stressful than going to trial.

Step 6: Trial (If Settlement Isn't Possible)

If you and your spouse cannot agree on key issues, the case will go to trial. A judge will hear testimony, review evidence, and make decisions on your behalf. Trials are more time-consuming and costly, but sometimes they are necessary to protect your rights and your children's well-being.

Step 7: Final Judgment

Once all issues are resolved—whether by agreement or trial—the court enters a General Judgment of Dissolution. This document makes the divorce final and lays out all the terms: property division, custody arrangements, support obligations, and anything else the court addressed.

Oregon has a mandatory waiting period of at least 90 days from the date the respondent is served before a divorce can be finalized. For more details on the procedural timeline, visit our Divorce: The Process page or read our blog post on how to file for divorce in Lane County.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Oregon?

The short answer: it depends. An uncontested divorce where both spouses agree on everything can be finalized in as little as three to four months. Contested cases involving disputes over custody, property, or support can take a year or longer. Having an experienced attorney by your side can often help move things along more efficiently.

Don't Forget: Oregon's Mandatory Parenting Class

If you have minor children, Oregon requires both parents to complete a mandatory parenting education class. This course helps parents understand how divorce affects children and how to support them through the transition. It must be completed before the divorce can be finalized. For more on how custody decisions are made, see our blog post on Oregon child custody laws explained.

You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone

Going through a divorce is one of life's most significant transitions. Having a knowledgeable, compassionate attorney makes a real difference. At Crawley Law Office, we're committed to providing clear guidance and personal attention to every client in the Eugene area. Browse our family law resources for more information, or schedule a consultation to talk about your case.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is unique. Please consult with an attorney to discuss the specifics of your case.