Portland, OR family law attorney Michael Yates gives a quick overview of the divorce process. He often describes the divorce process as having two bookends: the filing of the petition at the beginning and the entry of the divorce judgment at the end. Between those points lies a structured sequence of steps. First is the discovery process, which involves gathering documents, financial records, appraisals, and, at times, taking depositions.

Once discovery is complete, the case typically moves into the settlement phase. This most often includes mediation—a meeting involving the lawyers, the clients, and a neutral mediator—where the parties work to negotiate and craft a settlement.

If mediation is unsuccessful, the case proceeds to trial. At that stage, each party presents their issues and arguments, and the judge renders a decision on the disputed matters, culminating in the final divorce judgment.