Free Court Forms for Oregon Divorce and Custody Cases
Going through a divorce or custody case can be stressful, and legal help can be expensive. However, you can access free divorce and custody forms in Oregon to help you manage your case independently.
Where can I find free divorce and custody forms in Oregon?
The Oregon Judicial Department provides free divorce, custody, and legal separation forms. You can find these forms online or get copies from your local circuit court for a small fee.
How do I fill out the forms?
Option 1: Guide and File (also called "iForms")
The most popular court forms can be filled out using Oregon's "Guide and File" tool (also called "iForms"). This tool asks you questions and then generates your court forms for you. You can also electronically file your forms using this tool.
You can use Guide and File to:
- File for divorce, legal separation, or custody
- Respond to divorce, legal separation, or custody papers served on you
- Modify a divorce or custody judgment
- Apply for a restraining order
- Create a parenting plan
Option 2: Fill out your forms by hand
You can also fill out your forms by handwriting them. You can download the necessary forms from the Oregon Judicial Department website or get a copy (for a small fee) from your local circuit court.
If you handwrite your forms, use a black or blue pen instead of a pencil.
What do divorce and custody forms look like?
Oregon's free court forms look like this:
Are there free forms for everything I need to do in my divorce or custody case?
Unfortunately, no. Oregon's free court forms are a good starting point, but there may be situations where no forms are available.
In such cases, you might consider hiring a lawyer, searching online for free legal resources, or creating your own form based on examples you find elsewhere.
If you can't find the form you need and cannot figure out how to prepare one on your own, you can write a letter to the court with your request as a last resort. But make sure you mail a copy to the other person in your case and include that you mailed the form on your letter.
Where can I get help if I get stuck or have questions about the forms?
All Oregon courthouses have family law facilitators who can provide free assistance with completing court forms. While they cannot give legal advice, they can answer process questions and help you understand your options. Learn more about family law facilitators here.
If a family law facilitator can't help you, you'll need to talk with an attorney.
Where do I file my forms?
If you're already involved in a court case, you need to file your court forms in the circuit court in the county where the case was filed.
If you're starting a new divorce or custody case, you can file your forms in either:
- The Oregon county where you live, or
- The Oregon county where your spouse or the other parent lives.
In most cases, you must have lived in Oregon for at least six months before you can file a new case.
Find more information about filing a new case here.
Summary
While there isn't a one-stop shop for all the forms you might need in your divorce or custody case, Oregon's court system offers a valuable resource with its free downloadable forms and family law facilitator program. By using these resources, you can save money and take some control of your legal situation.
Related Articles
Are You Thinking of Getting a Divorce?
If you're considering divorce, you probably have questions like "Who gets what?" or "How do I file for divorce?" This guide provides an overview of divorce in Oregon and connects you with helpful resources.Uncontested Divorce
If you and your spouse agree on the details of your divorce, you may be able to get an uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are usually quicker and cost less money. Learn more about uncontested divorce here.How to File for Divorce in Oregon
If you know your marriage is over and divorce is the only option, this page will help you understand how to start your Oregon divorce, where to find free forms, and where to get free help.Did You Get Served with Oregon Divorce Papers?
If your spouse served you with divorce papers, you need to act quickly. If you disagree with the divorce papers, you only have 30 days to take legal action. Learn more about your options when your spouse serves you with divorce papers.Family Law Facilitators: Free Help for Your Oregon Divorce or Custody Case
If you're navigating the challenges of a divorce, separation, or custody battle in Oregon, it's important to know that free assistance is available. This support is provided by a professional at the court known as a "family law facilitator."