Can I Get a Divorce During the Current Pandemic?

Covid-19 has caused many changes with how the courts currently operate throughout Oregon. These changes have impacted how family law matters move through the court system. Depending on the phase of reopening and safety measures needed, each court is operating slightly different.

Prior to Covid-19, every county circuit court had Supplementary Local Rules (SLRs). These local rules detailed the exact way each court operates. These local rules are now changing quickly and often in reaction to the ever-changing information and challenges the courts face. In general hearings and trials have been reset or delayed and telephonic hearings for the items that are allowed to proceed are the new norm. Relatively simple processes such as the compelling of discovery production are now nebulous. Your unique situation will always be important to answer any questions you have. Schedule a consult if you want to move forward with confidence. Read below for some general information and answered questions.

Are the courts open?

The courts are open but prior to going, it is important to check the procedures in place to go to court as well as what hearings are being heard and how they are being conducted. See the county specific links below for more information.

Do I need to wear a mask to court?

In general, as of the posting of this blog, yes.

Can I get a divorce during the pandemic?

Yes, especially if you decide to proceed with a collaborative divorce. Johnson Law has started and finished dissolutions of marriages during the pandemic. However, issues that require input from the court are being delayed to various extent. Mediation is currently the best way to get around court delays, just as it was before the pandemic. Appointment of a Refence Judge is also an option in many cases. This will often expedite the process of being heard by the court.

Does the pandemic affect my parenting time or custody?

In general, parties with a parenting time plan should follow the parenting time plan. If one party is withholding the children from the other, there are enforcement remedies and the court is hearing these items, at this time. If you have any question relating to a party not following a parenting time plan, the attorneys at Johnson Law are happy to speak with you about options.

I lost my job; do I have to pay child support or spousal support?

If you have had a substantial, unanticipated change in circumstances regarding your employment, you should contact an attorney to discuss options including a potential modification of the support payment obligation. The family law attorneys at Johnson Law are well versed in modification proceedings and the underlying requirements relating to each.

Use these links for more current and detailed information regarding the court’s operations during the pandemic:

Oregon

https://www.courts.oregon.gov/courts/Pages/coronavirus.aspx

Multnomah County

https://www.courts.oregon.gov/courts/multnomah/Pages/coronavirus.aspx

Washington County

https://www.courts.oregon.gov/courts/washington/Pages/default.aspx

Clackamas County

https://www.courts.oregon.gov/courts/clackamas/Pages/coronavirus.aspx