Frequently Asked Questions
At Morris Family Law, we understand how overwhelming legal questions can feel – especially when they touch upon your family, your livelihood, or your freedom. As lawyers, and as parents ourselves, we know these aren’t just “cases”—they’re chapters in your life story. Below are some of the most common questions we receive. We hope these answers provide a helpful starting point and a sense of reassurance as you consider your next step.
Q: What areas of family law do you focus on?
We offer comprehensive Oregon family law services tailored to your family’s needs, including divorce and legal separation, custody and parenting time, spousal and child support, adoption, enforcement and modification of prior orders, third-party custody and visitation (ORS 109.119), prenuptial and other relationship agreement, and protective orders related to domestic violence or stalking prevention.
Q: How experienced is your team in handling family law matters?
Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience in Oregon family law litigation. We’ve guided hundreds of families through complex transitions with clarity, compassion, and strategic advocacy—always centering our clients’ goals and long-term stability.
Q: What is the divorce process in Oregon, and how long does it take?
Divorce begins when one party files a petition with the court. From there, the process may include service, financial disclosures, negotiation, mediation, and potentially trial. Every case is different, but our team works diligently to streamline the process and reduce conflict, while protecting your rights at every step.
Q: What factors determine child custody arrangements?
Oregon courts prioritize the best interests of the child. Factors include the child’s emotional and developmental needs, relationships with each parent, school and community connections, and each parent’s willingness to foster a strong relationship with the other. We work with you to build a parenting plan that supports your child’s well-being and future.
Q: How is spousal support calculated in Oregon?
Spousal support is not one-size-fits-all. Courts weigh many factors, including the length of the marriage, financial disparity, earning capacity, health, and contributions to the household and career sacrifices. Whether you’re seeking or defending against support, we’ll help you arrive at a result that’s fair and sustainable.
Q: Can I modify child custody or support orders after the divorce is finalized?
Yes. Life changes — so can legal orders. If there’s been a substantial change in circumstances (e.g., income shift, relocation, child’s evolving needs), you may be eligible to request a modification. Our team can evaluate your case and advocate for a revised order that reflects your current reality.
Q: What alternative dispute resolution options are available for family law matters?
Many families benefit from mediation or collaborative negotiation — less adversarial routes that often preserve co-parenting relationships and reduce cost and stress. We’re skilled negotiators who can guide you through these options while safeguarding your priorities.
Q: How do I protect my assets during a divorce?
Getting early and experienced legal advice makes all the difference. We use every legal tool available — asset tracing, valuations, forensic accounting, and strategic negotiation — to ensure an equitable division of property. Whether you’re safeguarding premarital assets or addressing complex holdings, we’re in your corner.
Q: Can grandparents seek visitation rights in Oregon?
Yes. Under ORS 109.119, non-parents who have a strong, parent-like relationship with a child can request custody or visitation rights. These cases can be nuanced, and our team has deep experience navigating the legal standards involved in preserving these meaningful bonds as well as defending biological parents’ legal rights to their children.
Q: What sets your family law firm apart from others in Oregon?
At Morris Family Law, we combine exceptional litigation and courtroom advocacy with a uniquely holistic and compassionate approach to client service. Our attorneys are not only deeply experienced trial lawyers—we’re also parents, partners, and professionals who understand the emotional and psychological weight that family law matters carry.
What truly sets us apart is our ability to handle the complex and high-conflict cases that many other firms shy away from. Our team has extensive litigation experience in contested custody trials, high-stakes parenting time disputes, third-party custody and visitation under ORS 109.119, and cases involving allegations of parental alienation or resist-refuse dynamics. We don’t just know the law—we understand the developmental, psychological, and relational dynamics that influence these cases, and we integrate that insight into every facet of our advocacy.
We approach each case with strategic depth, whether we are preparing for trial or pursuing resolution through mediation or collaborative processes. Our clients benefit from our comprehensive knowledge of Oregon family law, our command of evolving case law, and our commitment to aligning legal strategy with each client’s long-term goals, values, and lived experience.
At Morris Family Law, you are never just a file number. You are a person navigating one of life’s most difficult transitions—and we are here to walk beside you with strength, empathy, and clarity.
The first step in navigating any family law matter is to schedule an initial consultation with an experienced family law attorney to gather information and plan your strategy. Contact us today at 503-278-8764 to schedule your consultation and take the next step in writing your new chapter.