Guiding You Through The Divorce Process

If you are contemplating divorce, the countless decisions and considerations can be overwhelming. It is important that you consult with an attorney who can assert your rights while seeking an amicable resolution.

At the law office of Elaine D. Smith-Koop, LLC, I place a special emphasis on meeting my clients’ needs and concerns through the difficult process of divorce. I am an experienced family law attorney who has practiced law for more than 20 years. Located in Salem, I practice in the family courts of Marion County, Polk County, Yamhill County and surrounding counties of the Willamette Valley.

Experienced Representation For All Issues In Oregon Divorce

My role is to watch out for your best interests, in or out of court. I have handled every type of case, from high-asset and high-conflict divorce to uncontested divorce and dissolution of domestic partnerships. But every divorce is unique in the facts, the disputes and the people involved.

I will sit down to listen to your story and where things stand. I will then take you through a detailed questionnaire about your children, income, assets, debts and everything else that might affect the divorce proceedings and ultimate result. From there we will discuss your goals, your priorities and the realistic options regarding:

  • The marital residence — Should you retain ownership of a family home or sell it?
  • Division of property and debts — What is the value of marital assets and how should assets and debts be divided?
  • Child custody and parenting time — What factors does a judge take into account when making custody and visitation determinations?
  • Spousal support — Do you or your ex plan to petition for spousal support? What are your options?
  • Prenuptial agreements — What assets and debts are you bringing to a marriage?

If everything is agreed upon, a divorce can be finalized in three months. If your case goes to trial, it may take one or more years. I will help you get divorced as efficiently as possible with the least cost, stress and animosity. The Oregon family courts require mediation if you have children, and I will help you make the most of mandatory mediation to resolve conflicts or at least define and narrow the disputes. While litigation should be a last resort, I will faithfully protect your interests in any contested divorce proceedings.

Salem Domestic Partnership Dissolution Lawyer

I also handle cases involving the dissolution of domestic partnerships, including both same-sex and opposite-sex partnerships. Couples who are cohabitating but not married have many of the same issues as divorcing couples, but the laws and procedures are different. I can address property division and financial matters, including property settlement agreements and commingled property.

Divorce involves many decisions, including whether to go to court or to work things out. I am here to help you make informed decisions, to provide support and to pursue the most favorable outcome.

If you need an experienced Marion County divorce lawyer, call me today at 503-298-4419 or 800-743-3002, or contact me online to schedule a consultation.