How to File for Dissolution of Marriage in Oregon Without a Lawyer (2026)

Oregon calls it a Dissolution of Marriage — the official legal term used on all forms and court documents.

Oregon is one of the fastest states for divorce — there is no mandatory waiting period after filing. Once the paperwork is processed and approved, the dissolution is final. Oregon also offers a co-petition option that allows both spouses to file together, eliminating the service step entirely.

Automatic statutory restraining orders: In Oregon, when you file for dissolution, automatic temporary restraining orders (ATROs) immediately go into effect for both parties. Neither spouse can transfer, sell, encumber, or dispose of marital assets while the case is pending. This protects both parties without needing a separate court order.

Oregon-married exception: If you were married in Oregon, you may be able to file in Oregon even if you now live in another state — as long as your spouse still lives in Oregon.

Disclaimer: General legal information only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed Oregon attorney for your situation.

Oregon Dissolution at a Glance

The Oregon-Married Exception

Standard rule: You or your spouse must have lived in Oregon for at least 6 months before filing.

Exception: If you were married in Oregon and your spouse currently lives in Oregon, you can file in Oregon regardless of how long you have been in Oregon. This allows Oregon-married couples who later moved away to still use Oregon courts if the other spouse remains in Oregon.

Co-Petition — The Simplest Oregon Option

Oregon allows both spouses to file a Co-Petition for Dissolution of Marriage together. Benefits:

• No service of process required — both parties are already parties when filing
• No response deadline — both are petitioners
• Signals full agreement to the court
• Often results in faster processing

To co-petition, both spouses must agree to file together. The Co-Petition is available whether or not there are children or significant property.

OJD Form Packets — Oregon's Excellent Form System

The Oregon Judicial Department (OJD) provides pre-packaged form sets organized by scenario:

• Dissolution without minor children, without significant property
• Dissolution without minor children, with property
• Dissolution with minor children
• Co-petition versions of each packet

Each packet contains all the forms needed for that scenario, with instructions. Download at courts.oregon.gov/forms.

Automatic Temporary Restraining Orders (ATROs)

Upon filing, Oregon law automatically issues temporary restraining orders binding both parties. Neither spouse may:

• Transfer, sell, encumber, or dispose of marital property (except ordinary course)
• Cancel or change health, life, or automobile insurance
• Change beneficiary designations
• Remove a spouse or children from insurance coverage

The ATROs remain in effect until the dissolution is final. Violation is contempt of court.

Step-by-Step Overview

Step 1 — Confirm Eligibility

Either party has lived in Oregon for 6+ months (or Oregon-married exception applies). Identify which county to file in.

Step 2 — Choose Regular Petition or Co-Petition

If both agree: co-petition. Otherwise: one spouse files as Petitioner; the other is Respondent.

Step 3 — Download the Correct OJD Packet

courts.oregon.gov/forms — select the correct packet for your situation (with/without children, with/without property).

Step 4 — Complete the Forms and Marital Settlement Agreement

Complete all packet forms. Draft the Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) covering property, debts, and support. With children: complete the Parenting Plan.

Step 5 — File at Circuit Court

File at the Circuit Court Clerk's office in the county where either spouse lives. Pay $287–$301. Automatic restraining orders take effect.

Step 6 — Serve the Respondent (Single Petition Only)

If filing solo: serve the Respondent by personal delivery, mail with acknowledgment, or sheriff/process server. For co-petition: skip this step.

Step 7 — Submit Final Documents / Judgment

File the proposed Judgment of Dissolution with the MSA and Parenting Plan attached. Oregon has no waiting period — the judge can sign the Judgment as soon as all documents are properly filed and reviewed.

Step 8 — Judgment of Dissolution Entered

The judge signs the Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage. The marriage is dissolved.

Post-Dissolution Steps

• Real estate: Deed transfer → county recording office
• Retirement: QDRO for employer plans
• Name restoration: Oregon DMV → Social Security → financial accounts
• Beneficiary designations: Update immediately

Last reviewed: March 2026 | No waiting period | Co-petition available | Automatic restraining orders | Oregon-married exception | OJD form packets free at courts.oregon.gov

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.