Family Law Facilitators: Free Help for Your Oregon Divorce or Custody Case
If you're navigating the challenges of a divorce, separation, or custody case in Oregon, it's important to know that free help is available. This support is provided by a person at the court known as a "family law facilitator."
What is a family law facilitator in Oregon?
Family law facilitators work for the courts. They can:
- Show you which court papers you need.
- Check your papers to make sure you filled them out correctly.
- Tell you about the court's rules and how things work.
- Guide you through the steps of your case.
- Point you to other places that can help you more.
Is this help free?
Yes, it's totally free.
Are family law facilitators lawyers?
No. But they can still help you with your family law case. They can help you find court papers, provide basic information about the law, and help you fill out forms.
What's the difference between a facilitator and a lawyer?
Unlike a lawyer, a facilitator can only provide basic information. They can’t answer your detailed questions or give you advice on what to do in your case. Only a licensed lawyer or paralegal can do this.
A facilitator also must stay neutral, meaning they can't take sides. In comparison, a lawyer is on your side and will help you fight for what you want in the case.
Lastly, a facilitator doesn’t have to keep your information private. They can talk to other court staff or their friends about your situation. They can also help your spouse or ex-partner with the same case.
A lawyer, however, must keep your information private. They can’t tell anyone outside of their office about your case or your situation, and they can’t help your spouse or ex-partner with the same case.
If you want to hire a lawyer, visit this page for more information on how to find a good lawyer.
Do facilitators provide help in other languages?
Yes. Court facilitators must offer services in other languages. Ask for an interpreter if your local court facilitator doesn't speak your language.
How do I contact my local court facilitator?
In-person services
All Oregon courts offer in-person facilitation services. Some provide these services during a monthly workshop, some have daily walk-in hours, and others require appointments.
Visit this court website to find information for your local court facilitator.
Phone or video services
Oregon now offers phone or video appointments in some counties:
- Northwest Oregon Facilitation Initiative (NWOFI): Serves Clatsop, Columbia, Lincoln, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill Counties. Visit the NWOFI page to schedule your appointment.
- Southern Oregon Facilitation Initiative (SOFI): Serves Baker, Coos, Curry, Douglas, Grant, Harney, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lake, and Malheur Counties. Visit the SOFI page to schedule your appointment.
- Greater Oregon Facilitation Initiative (GOFI): Serves Benton, Clackamas, Crook, Deschutes, Gilliam, Hood River, Jefferson, Lane, Linn, Marion, Sherman, Union, Wallowa, Wasco, Wheeler Counties. Visit the GOFI page to schedule your appointment.
- Child support facilitation: Oregon's statewide child support facilitator program can help if you have child support questions. Call 541-734-0951 or book your appointment here.
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