Unfortunately, many marriages end in divorce. In Oregon, there are certain requirements and procedures that a divorce lawyer can help you meet before the dissolution of a marriage can take place.
Generally, at least one of the parties must be living in Oregon and domiciled in Oregon for the six months preceding the filing of their Petition for Dissolution. In addition, Oregon is a “no-fault” divorce state. This means that a divorce can be initiated by either party, for any reason, so long as the party alleges that there are “irreconcilable differences” which have caused the irremediable breakdown of the marriage. Neither spouse is required to allege what those differences are.
Oregon is considered an “equitable distribution” state and that means marital property is divided equitably among the husband and wife. This does not mean an equal distribution, but instead what is considered “fair.” Divorcing couples are encouraged to come to an agreement as to the division of property and debt or they run the risk that the court will make those decisions for them.
When children are involved in a divorce, the courts will do everything to minimize the trauma on them and take actions that are deemed to be in the best interests of the child. Parents are encouraged to mediate out a parenting plan, but if they can’t reach an agreement, the courts will step in and make the decisions for them. Parenting plans spell out in great detail, the days each parent spends with the child, who makes what decisions regarding schooling and healthcare, and other related issues. In some instances, one parent will be required to pay alimony and/or child support to help meet the financial needs of the other parent and the child.
Johnson & Taylor Law proudly serves Marion, Polk, Linn, Yamhill and other surrounding counties.