Steps in a Contested Divorce Case in Oregon

A temporary order is a court decision that sets short-term rules for both spouses during the divorce. These orders are helpful if you and your spouse cannot agree on who stays in the house or who pays the bills while the divorce is in progress.

In most counties, parents are required to complete a short parenting class and try to work out parenting issues using their county’s free family mediation services.

Gathering documents, called discovery, is important. Having the right information helps you fill out court forms, work toward a fair settlement, and get ready for hearings or trial.

You can settle even if you’re in the middle of a contested divorce. Agreeing outside of court can save money and often leads to a better outcome for both sides.

If you can’t settle, you’ll need to go to court and have a judge or an arbitrator decide your disagreements for you.

Whether you settle or go to trial, your case is not finalized until a judge signs a written judgment. This judgment ends your marriage and explains the terms of your divorce, including custody, financial support, and the division of property and debts.