Divorce can be an overwhelming and emotionally charged experience. In the state of Oregon, individuals contemplating divorce might wonder if counseling is mandatory before commencing the process of dissolving their marriage. This article aims to explore the counseling requirements, exceptions to these requirements, and potential advantages of seeking counseling before initiating a divorce.
Counseling Mandate in Oregon
Oregon is one of several states that enforces a counseling prerequisite for couples seeking divorce. The objective behind this requirement is to offer couples an opportunity to consider reconciliation and address any underlying marital concerns.
As per Oregon law, couples must engage in counseling sessions that span at least 90 minutes within 30 days of filing for divorce. These sessions can be conducted by certified mediators, licensed professional counselors, or psychologists.
Exceptions to the Counseling Prerequisite
Although counseling is generally mandated for divorcing couples in Oregon, some exceptions exist. These include:
- Domestic violence: Couples with a history of domestic violence are exempted from participating in joint counseling sessions. In such cases, the victim may be directed towards individual counseling.
- Non-agreement on counseling: In situations where one party refuses to attend counseling, the other party may proceed with the divorce without engaging in joint counseling sessions.
Advantages of Counseling Prior to Divorce
While counseling may not salvage every marriage, it offers couples a supportive environment to explore the issues plaguing their relationship and possibly find a means of reconciliation. Furthermore, counseling enables couples to address any underlying emotional or psychological challenges that may have contributed to the breakdown of their marriage.
Participating in counseling can also aid couples in navigating the divorce process more effectively, minimizing conflict in the proceedings. Collaborating with a neutral third-party skilled in conflict resolution can enhance communication between couples, facilitating mutually beneficial agreements on matters such as child custody and asset distribution.
Conclusion
In Oregon, prerequisitional counseling is typically required prior to filing for divorce, except in certain circumstances. While it may not be a panacea for all relationships, counseling permits couples to objectively evaluate the issues within their marriage and potentially pave a path towards reconciliation. Seeking counseling before initiating a divorce can also assist in reducing contention during the legal process and yield favorable outcomes for all parties involved.