Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Can a stepparent be held responsible for child support?
In most cases, stepparents are not legally required to pay child support unless they have legally adopted the child(ren). However, if a stepparent has assumed significant responsibility for raising the child(ren), their income may be considered when determining the biological parents' ability to pay.
What are the legal rights of grandparents in Oregon?
In Oregon, grandparents don't have specific rights, but do have the same rights as any other person who has established a parent-like relationship with a child. Under this framework, grandparents have the right to seek visitation with their grandchildren through a court order. However, they must prove that they have an established relationship with the child and that it is in the child's best interest to maintain contact. Parents' wishes and rights are given priority over those of grandparents.
How does child custody work within an Oregon Divorce Settlement Agreement?
Child custody arrangements are included in your Oregon Divorce Settlement Agreement. Custody can be joint or sole depending on what's best for the child(ren). A parenting plan outlining visitation schedules should also be included.
How does legal marital separation affect child custody arrangements?
During an Oregon legal marital separation, child custody arrangements must be negotiated between both parties and approved by the court. This includes decisions on physical custody (where the children will live), legal custody (decision-making authority), visitation schedules, and any necessary support payments.
How is child custody determined in Oregon?
Child custody decisions are based on the statutory requirements listed at ORS 107.137. These requirements include the best interests of the child, considering factors like emotional bonds with parents and siblings, abuse by one parent, stability of home environment, and each parent's ability to meet the child's needs.
What are my rights as an alleged father in Oregon?
As an alleged father in Oregon, you have rights such as due process during legal proceedings on establishing your paternity status; seeking DNA tests before admitting responsibility; disputing any claims made against you; and petitioning for custody or visitation rights once your status is confirmed.
How long does it take to establish grandparent rights in Oregon?
The timeline for establishing grandparent rights varies depending on factors such as court schedules, case complexity and whether all parties are cooperative. It is essential to work with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process efficiently.
What factors does an Oregon family law judge consider when deciding whether to grant a modification?
Oregon judges consider several factors when evaluating requests for modifications including: any major changes since previous order; stability of both households; each parent’s ability and willingness to care for their children; emotional ties between children and parents; any history of abuse or neglect; preferences of children (if they’re old enough); and any other relevant factors.
What are the grounds for modifying child custody in Oregon?
In Oregon, courts may modify child custody if there is a significant change in circumstances that affects the best interests of the child. This can include changes in parents' living situations, mental health issues, substance abuse problems, or changes in the child's needs.
What are my rights as a grandparent regarding visitation with my grandchildren?
In Oregon, grandparents have limited rights to request visitation with their grandchildren. If you can prove that it's in the best interest of the child and that an ongoing relationship exists or existed between grandparent and grandchild, you may petition for visitation rights through the court system.
What is paternity and why is it important in Oregon?
Paternity refers to the legal recognition of a man as the father of a child. Establishing paternity in Oregon ensures that the child has access to benefits such as child support, inheritance rights, and medical care. It also helps protect the father's parental rights and responsibilities.
What are the main components of an Oregon Divorce Settlement Agreement?
An Oregon Divorce Settlement Agreement includes provisions on division of assets and debts, spousal support, child custody and parenting time, and child support. Both parties must agree on the terms before submitting the agreement to the court for approval.

Oregon Personal Family Law and Divorce Law Blog

We work hard to stay up to date on the law and developments in Oregonfamily law and divorce law that may help our clients. Our firm maintains a policy of "information first" for the client, so we make every effort to share information with the public and clients. Our blog covers topics from the frequently asked questions (FAQs) that Oregonfamily law and divorce Attorneys encounter to news headlines that impact attorneys who help injured people. If there is a topic you would like to see covered, let us know, and we'll add it to our list of subject matter!

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Practice Areas

Learn more about the types of injuries our Attorneys help with.

Divorce

From dividing assets and debts, to support and child custody, we have you covered.

Oregon Family Law

Family law is more than divorce. It is an umbrella of practice areas.

Spousal Support (Alimony)

A lot goes into figuring out spousal support. We've done it all before.

Child Relocation

Moving a child away from a parent is always difficult. Let us help with the law.

Child Custody

Custody is one of the most contested and least-understood parts of family law.

Child Custody Modification

Sometimes a change in circumstances warrants a change in custody.

Child Support

Oregon takes child support seriously, and we can help you navigate the process.

Uncontested Divorce

Sometimes there's no dispute, you just need somebody to draft the right documents.

Child Support Modification

Learn about when Oregon child support can be modified.

Unbundled Services

When there's only select things you need legal help with, we offer "unbundled" services.

Grandparent Rights

Grandparents and other third parties can develop rights to see children under Oregon law. Let's discuss your circumstances.

High Asset Divorce

More assets generally means more complicated divorces. We have the experience to assist with all levels of estate.

Legal Marital Separation

Sometimes divorce is not the right choice under certain circumstances. A legal separation might be.

Mediation

Mediation can be a great way to resolve disputes without a trial or courts.

Paternity

Becoming legally responsible as a father requires establishing paternity. We can help.

Prenuptial Agreements

Like estate planning, financial clairity prior to marriage builds trust. Let us assist with your plan.

Spousal Support Modification

Times change, jobs change, circumstances change. Spousal support can too.

Restraining Orders

Restraining orders provide a fast means to get help for domestic violence in families.

Stalking Orders

Oregon stalking orders are serious business. If you need help with Oregon stalking law, we have experience.

Divorce Settlement Agreements

Sometimes the best outcome is the one you design yourself. We can help your create a binding agreement.

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