How Is Property Divided in an Oregon Divorce?
Oregon uses an “equitable distribution” model, which means assets are divided fairly—but not necessarily equally. The court applies a “just and proper” standard that considers multiple factors: the length of your marriage, each spouse’s economic circumstances, contributions to the marriage (including homemaking), and future earning capacity.
This is where fear often creeps in. Will you lose the house? Your retirement? Your business?
Here’s the reality: equitable doesn’t mean 50/50. A judge might award 60/40 or 70/30 if circumstances warrant it. For example, if one spouse sacrificed career advancement to raise children, they may receive a larger share to compensate for reduced earning potential.
Stacy Regele has handled complex asset divisions involving family businesses, real estate portfolios, and retirement accounts. She understands Oregon’s nuanced approach and works to protect what matters most to you—whether that’s keeping the family home, securing your 401(k), or ensuring fair valuation of marital property.
The key is thorough documentation and strategic negotiation. If you’re concerned about protecting your assets, contact Regele Law to discuss your specific situation.
How Does a Judge Decide Child Custody and Parenting Time?
Oregon courts use one standard above all others: the best interests of the child. This isn’t a vague concept—judges evaluate specific factors to determine what arrangement serves the child’s emotional, educational, and physical well-being.
What factors do judges consider?
- Primary caregiver history: Who has been the day-to-day parent? Who attends doctor’s appointments, manages school schedules, and handles bedtime routines?
- The status quo: Courts are hesitant to disrupt stable living arrangements. If a child has been thriving in their current environment, judges will weigh this heavily.
- Each parent’s willingness to foster a relationship with the other parent: Oregon courts favor parents who encourage co-parenting, not those who create obstacles.
- Work schedules and availability: Can each parent accommodate the child’s school and extracurricular activities?
- Geographic proximity: How far apart do parents live? Long commutes can disrupt a child’s routine.
- Any history of abuse or neglect: Safety is paramount.
Many parents assume custody battles are won by whoever fights hardest in court. In reality, judges prefer arrangements where both parents remain meaningfully involved—unless there’s a compelling reason otherwise.
Stacy Regele approaches child custody cases with a clear focus: what’s best for your child, not what scores points in litigation. She’ll help you present a strong case grounded in your child’s needs and your ability to meet them.
Can I Resolve My Divorce Without Going to Trial?
Yes—and in most cases, you should try.
Stacy Regele is committed to out-of-court solutions through negotiation and mediation. This isn’t just about saving money (though you will). It’s about preserving your emotional energy, maintaining control over the outcome, and reducing trauma for your children.
Why avoid trial?
- Cost: Litigation is expensive. Attorney fees, expert witnesses, and court costs add up quickly. Many contested divorces cost $15,000–$50,000 or more when they go to trial.
- Time: Trials can drag on for months. Mediation or negotiated settlements often resolve in weeks.
- Control: In court, a judge decides your future. In mediation, you and your spouse craft solutions that work for your family.
- Privacy: Trials are public record. Mediation is confidential.
- Emotional toll: Courtroom battles are adversarial by nature. They deepen conflict and make co-parenting harder.
Stacy’s approach prioritizes collaboration without sacrificing your interests. She’s a skilled negotiator who knows when to push and when to compromise. If trial becomes necessary, she’s prepared—but she’ll exhaust every reasonable alternative first.
If you’re wondering whether your case can be resolved without litigation, the answer is often yes. Schedule a consultation to explore your options.
What Factors Influence Spousal Support (Alimony) in Oregon?
Oregon recognizes three types of spousal support, each serving a different purpose:
1. Transitional Support helps a spouse gain skills or education needed to re-enter the workforce. This is common when one spouse has been out of the job market for years. Duration is typically limited—often 1–3 years.
2. Compensatory Support reimburses a spouse for contributions that benefited the other’s career. For example, if you worked to put your spouse through medical school, compensatory support acknowledges that sacrifice. This type can be substantial and long-term.
3. Spousal Maintenance provides ongoing financial support when a spouse cannot reasonably become self-supporting due to age, health, or lack of job skills. This is more common in long marriages (10+ years) where one spouse has minimal earning capacity.
What factors do judges consider?
- Length of the marriage
- Each spouse’s income and earning potential
- Age and health of both parties
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Contributions as a homemaker
- Custody of minor children
Oregon courts don’t use a rigid formula. Instead, judges have broad discretion to craft support orders that reflect the unique circumstances of your marriage.
Stacy Regele understands the financial anxieties on both sides—whether you’re concerned about affording support or worried you won’t receive enough to maintain stability. She’ll analyze your situation, project likely outcomes, and negotiate arrangements that reflect Oregon’s legal standards while protecting your financial future.
Why Is Local Expertise Critical for My Case?
Marion County courts have their own procedures, preferences, and unwritten norms. Local judges have patterns. Some favor mediation more than others. Some prioritize keeping children in their current schools. Some are more receptive to creative parenting plans.
Stacy Regele has practiced in Salem since 2016. She knows the Marion County court system, understands how local judges approach custody and property division, and has built relationships with mediators and opposing counsel that can smooth the path to resolution.
But local expertise is only part of the equation. What sets Stacy apart is her compassionate guidance. She listens first, strategizes second, and fights only when necessary. Her goal is to help you emerge from divorce with your dignity intact, your children protected, and your financial future secure.
Ready to discuss your case? Schedule a strategy session to see how Stacy’s approach applies to your specific family dynamics. You’ll leave with clarity on your options and confidence in your next steps.