Oregon Domestic Partnership Attorneys

Same Sex Partnerships in Oregon

Oregon recognizes Registered Domestic Partnerships between same-sex individuals. House Bill 2007, known as the Oregon Family Fairness Act, created Oregon Registered Domestic Partnerships which allows for a legally recognized status for same-sex partners. The Bill allows same-sex partners, aged 18 or older, to enter into a civil contract as Registered Domestic Partners. In 2009, House Bill 2830 expanded the options for last names that Registered Domestic Partners are able to assume upon registration of the Domestic Partnership. In 2013, Senate Bill 406 further expanded the allowed surnames for those in a Registered Domestic Partnership. Both partners must sign a Declaration of Domestic Partnership, have their signatures notarized and file the Declaration with the county clerk. The partners are then provided with a Certificate of Registered Domestic Partnership.

The process for dissolution, annulment, or legal separation of a Registered Domestic Partnership is handled similarly to a marriage dissolution, annulment or legal separation. Proper documents must be filed in the Circuit Court where at least one member of the Registered Domestic Partnership resides.

Unmarried partners of the opposite sex may also qualify for a Dissolution of Domestic Partnership under certain circumstances. If it is determined that during their relationship, the parties intended to pool their resources for the common benefit and to own and acquire property and debt on a joint and equal basis, the case may qualify for a Dissolution of Domestic Partnership. Please contact our office for more information.