Oregon Child Custody and Support Guidelines

Oregon Child Custody and Support Guidelines:

Custody may be awarded to either the father or the mother. The court shall give primary consideration to the best interests and welfare of the child when determining custody. In determining the best interests and welfare of the child, the court shall consider the following relevant factors:

• The emotional ties between the child and other family members;
• The interest of the parties in and attitude toward the child;
• The desirability of continuing an existing relationship;
• The abuse of one parent by the other;
• The preference for the primary caregiver of the child, if the caregiver is deemed fit by the court; and
• The willingness and ability of each parent to facilitate and encourage a close and continuing relationship between the other parent and the child, unless a continuing relationship with the other parent will endanger the health or safety of either parent or the child.

In determining custody of a minor child, the court shall consider the conduct, marital status, income, social environment or life style of either party only if it is shown that any of these factors are causing or may cause emotional or physical damage to the child.

An order providing for joint custody may specify one home as the primary residence of the child and designate one parent to have sole power to make decisions about specific matters while both parents retain equal rights and responsibilities for other decisions. Modification of a joint custody order shall require showing of changed circumstances and that the modification is in the best interests of the child. Inability or unwillingness to continue to cooperate shall constitute a change of circumstances sufficient to modify a joint custody order [Based on Oregon Revised Statutes: Chapter 107.137 and 107.169]

In ordering child support, the formula established by ORS 25.270 to 25.287 shall apply. Information can be found at the Oregon Division of Child Support. Child support is not required for any minor child who has become self-supporting, emancipated or married, or who has ceased to attend school after becoming 18 years of age.

Child support orders shall include provisions for payment of uninsured medical expenses of the child, maintenance of insurance to back the support, and maintenance of a health care plan for the child [Based on Oregon Revised Statutes: Chapter 107.105 and 107.106]