What happens if the respondent files an appearance?
Oregon has a statutory, 90-day waiting-period before a divorce can go to trial (presumably so you are sure you have “irreconcilable differences which have led to the irremediable breakdown of the marriage.”). However, if either of you contests any matters (i.e., custody, visitation, support, alimony, property or debts), the wait for a hearing date (trial) can be much longer. Many cases require temporary relief during this time, such as orders for temporary child support or alimony, protective orders concerning children, orders for use or preservation of assets, compelling mortgage payments or restricting additions to joint debts, and certain other “status quo” orders. After a brief hearing, the court may enter temporary orders, which usually remain in effect until modified or until the final judgment for dissolution of marriage is entered.
