Oregon DIY Divorce Options and Filing Guide

Oregon makes it possible for spouses to handle their own divorce without hiring an attorney, and the state’s court system actively supports self-represented filers with free statewide form packets, an interactive Guide & File tool, and family law facilitators in every circuit court. With a filing fee of $301, no mandatory waiting period, and a streamlined summary dissolution option for qualifying couples, a DIY divorce in Oregon is practical when both spouses agree on the terms. This guide covers eligibility, required forms, e-filing, mediation, and the resources available to Oregon filers handling divorce on their own.

Choosing Your DIY Filing Path in Oregon

Oregon offers several ways to dissolve a marriage, and the right path depends on whether you and your spouse agree on the terms and the complexity of your finances. Under ORS 107.025, Oregon is a pure no-fault state—the only ground for divorce is irreconcilable differences, so neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing.

An uncontested divorce is the simplest DIY route. Both spouses agree on property division, support, and custody, then submit a stipulated general judgment for the judge to sign. Alternatively, if one spouse does not respond within 30 days of service, the petitioner can seek a default judgment. For a deeper comparison of these tracks, see our Oregon uncontested vs. contested divorce guide.

A co-petitioner (joint) filing lets both spouses file together with a single $301 fee, which can cut costs in half compared to separate filings. Some counties publish tailored co-petitioner packets with local instructions.

Summary Dissolution: The Fastest DIY Option

Oregon’s summary dissolution under ORS 107.485–.500 is designed for couples with simple finances and no children. To qualify, all of the following must be true at filing:

• No minor or school-attending children of the marriage
• Marriage lasted 10 years or less
• No real property (no house, land, or buildings)
• Total unsecured debts of $15,000 or less
• Total personal property fair market value under $30,000
• Petitioner waives spousal support

If you meet every requirement, a summary dissolution can finalize in as little as two to six weeks without a court hearing. For a complete timeline breakdown, see our Oregon divorce timeline.

Free Forms and Self-Help Resources

The Oregon Judicial Department (OJD) publishes free statewide form packets for petitioners and respondents, with separate versions for cases with and without children. These packets include the Petition, Summons, Confidential Information Form, Record of Dissolution, and instructions.

The OJD also offers Guide & File (iForms), an interactive online tool that walks you through questions and generates court-ready documents based on your answers. Every circuit court has a family law facilitator who can review your documents and explain procedures—though they cannot give legal advice. For details on forms and residency requirements, see our Oregon divorce filing checklist.

E-Filing and Court Fees

Oregon supports electronic filing through OJD eFile (Odyssey File & Serve). Self-represented litigants may e-file or file paper documents at the courthouse. E-filing is available 24/7 and is mandatory for attorneys.

As of January 1, 2025, the domestic relations filing fee is $301 for the initial petition and $301 for the respondent’s first appearance, per ORS 21.155. Co-petitioners pay only one $301 fee. If you cannot afford the fee, Oregon offers a fee deferral or waiver application.

Estimate Your Oregon Divorce Costs

Use the calculator below to get a personalized estimate of your total divorce costs, including filing fees, service expenses, and potential mediation costs.

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

Many Oregon courts require parents to attend court-connected mediation before any contested custody or parenting-time hearing. The OJD provides statewide mediation services with safety accommodations for domestic violence situations. Counties may also require a parenting education class before judgment in cases with minor children.

Oregon also offers an Informal Domestic Relations Trial (IDRT) under UTCR 8.120, where both parties consent to a simplified, judge-directed hearing with relaxed evidentiary rules. This option can reduce costs and time for couples willing to present their case directly to the judge.

When Professional Help May Be Worth It

A DIY approach works best for uncontested divorces where both spouses agree on all terms. Consider consulting a family law attorney or mediator if your case involves complex property such as business interests, retirement accounts, or real estate requiring QDROs; disputes over child custody or parenting time; spousal support claims; or significant debts exceeding summary dissolution thresholds. Oregon also recognizes collaborative divorce, a non-court settlement process using trained collaborative lawyers and neutral experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Oregon?
Yes. Oregon actively supports self-represented filers with free statewide form packets, the Guide & File interactive tool, and family law facilitators in every circuit court. Many uncontested divorces finalize without any attorney involvement.

How much does a DIY divorce cost in Oregon?
The filing fee is $301 as of 2025. Co-petitioners pay only one fee. Additional costs may include process server fees (typically $50–$75) and certified copies. Fee deferral or waiver is available for those who qualify.

What is a summary dissolution in Oregon?
Summary dissolution is a streamlined divorce for couples married 10 years or less with no children, no real property, limited debts (under $15,000), and personal property under $30,000 in value. It can finalize in as few as two to six weeks without a court hearing.