Lawyer of Firm Description

About Stahancyk, Kent & Hook — Divorce Bend Oregon

The divorce Bend office of Stahancyk, Kent & Hook (operating today as SKH Lawyers) has served Central Oregon families since the firm’s founding in 1986. The Bend office at 158 NE Greenwood Avenue anchors the firm’s Deschutes County practice, with shareholders Joel J. Kent, Kyle J. Piro, and Anne H. Ajayi leading the team. For example, the firm focuses on strategic, long-term family planning rather than reactive litigation. Additionally, Deschutes County Circuit Court at the Wall Street Courthouse in downtown Bend hears all dissolutions for the area.

The Bend office concentrates on dissolution, custody, post-divorce modification, LGBTQ+ family law, and reproductive technology matters across Bend. Because Central Oregon’s growth has driven up household assets and complexity, the firm emphasizes pre-litigation strategy and structured settlement work. Specifically, the firm’s “apply to be a client” intake process selects matters where its planning-first approach is the right fit.

What Clients Say

Reviewers consistently describe a thoughtful, relationship-focused practice with deep family-law expertise. A recurring theme is being heard — clients note the firm spends time understanding goals before recommending strategy. Associate attorneys and paralegals are also praised for prompt, thorough communication.

Divorce Bend — Practice Areas & Services

Dissolution & legal separation: Contested and uncontested filings in Deschutes County Circuit Court.
Child custody & parenting plans: Original and modified parenting time agreements.
Spousal & child support: Calculations under the Oregon child support guidelines and ORS 107.105.
LGBTQ+ family law: Same-sex marriage, parentage, and dissolution matters.
Estate planning: Wills and trusts coordinated with divorce planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Bend divorces filed?

Dissolution petitions are filed in Deschutes County Circuit Court at 1100 NW Bond Street, Bend, OR 97703. Specifically, the family law calendar is typically set by status conference, then case management, before trial. Most uncontested cases reach decree within 90–150 days from filing.

How long does an Oregon divorce take?

An uncontested Oregon dissolution can finalize in roughly 90–120 days. Contested matters — those involving custody disputes, business valuations, or significant assets — typically run 9–18 months in Deschutes County. The firm’s planning-first model is designed to shorten timelines through early settlement work.

Does Oregon recognize fault-based grounds?

No. Oregon is a pure no-fault state under ORS 107.025. Dissolution requires only “irreconcilable differences.” However, fault-related conduct — such as dissipation of assets — can still influence property division and spousal support analyses.

Quick Facts: Divorce in Bend, Oregon

Deschutes County population: Approximately 207,000 residents in one of Oregon’s fastest-growing counties — U.S. Census QuickFacts
No-fault grounds: Oregon recognizes only “irreconcilable differences” under ORS 107.025 — Oregon Revised Statutes
Court venue: Deschutes County Circuit Court, 1100 NW Bond St., Bend — Oregon Judicial Department

AI-Powered Reviews Summary

Stahancyk, Kent & Hook P.C. is a highly regarded law firm located in Bend, Oregon, specializing in family law, divorce, and estate planning. Clients consistently praise the attorneys for their exceptional skills, professionalism, and empathetic approach, particularly highlighting Joel Kent and Laurel Hook for their dedication and ability to navigate complex legal situations with care. Overall, the firm has earned a reputation for providing supportive and effective legal representation during challenging times, making them a top choice for those seeking divorce and family law services.

Users Reviews Comments – Google

Devin Reynolds took $700 for a consultation fee & then told me I had no way to turn around my mom’s horrible situation of being held captive in a facility by a professional guardianships. He also gave me false information, went on for 15 min about a Seinfeld episode & told me there was nothing I could do. After much negotiation he would take on a property dispute case for a $5,000 retainer.

Joel Kent practices domestic relations law with an exquisite degree of skill, thoughtfulness and intellect. Joel is often credited as the leading family law attorney in Oregon, but I wonder if the breadth of that label should not be far more widespread. If you are fortunate enough to retain him, you’ll have an advocate who not only possesses finely tuned trial skills, but also engages in tireless preparation and incredible professionalism. My mantra quickly became, “Whatever you think, Joel.” and I was not once disappointed.

*Empathetic, Effective, and Truly Exceptional – Thank You, Jamie!**

Excellent Lawyer! Laurel Hook will definitely take care of you during a very difficult time in your life along with your family dynamics changing. – She along with her team are absolutely amazing! She definitely knows the intricacies of the divorce laws and is there to represent you to the fullest. She talked me off of ledges on many occasions, I came into her office terrified of filing for divorce but knew I had to and she walked me thru a very complicated process paying attention to so many details, I had no clue about. She explained her strategies to me in ways I completely understood and felt comfortable with. I finalized my divorce with confidence due to her support and knowledge. Her team is there to come beside you which I was very thankful for. If you want the best lawyer, go with Laurel Hook esp if you divorce is complicated with a business or other stuff. She truly cared about me and my kids thru this entire process! I highly recommend Laurel Hook!

Can’t imagine using anyone else….and can’t thank him enough.

Just called to see about scheduling a consultation for a divorce and custody case for someone else. Was told I would be speaking with an attorney in Bend. When I asked what the consultation fee was they told me $900!!! Are you serious?!? That much money and you don’t even know if they will take you on as a client let alone whether you want to hire them for your case?!

I was referred to Joel and retained him the moment I met him. As a younger father that was served custody papers out of the blue, you could say I was very nervous. After one visit with Joel and his assistant Jessica I knew I had the best shot to settle things faster and less painfully. They were incredibly professional from the moment we started working together. At anytime I was able to contact one of them for any questions I had or advice one how to handle an interaction with my Ex. They value doing things with the least amount of conflict possible but also handle it in a direct manner. I am 25 years old with a 18 month old and have 50% parenting time, joint legal custody and no child support. There are very few attorneys that could help you accomplish this. Be completely transparent with Joel and Jessica and they will do everything in there power to help. I met with 5 or so attorneys before these guys and they were the most professional and motivated to keep the peace between both parties. I value that a lot since the only one who suffers from the conflict is your child. I would refer them to anyone I know. They treat you like family and care about your child’s quality of life, present and future.

I was a client and they are knowledgeable, dependable and eased my mind going through my divorce. My attorney, Brent Wilkins, protected my rights and future and would recommend this him and his office.

If you have any legal issues this should be your first choice. Joel is absolutely amazing. I truly appreciate everything that they did for my family.

I worked with Kyle Piro for many years for my divorce and custody issues. Kyle and his team were always very helpful, responsive and dedicated to making sure our final agreement was in the best interest of my kids and myself. I can’t thank them enough.

I have had the very great misfortune of dealing with this firm, and they have cost me a lot of money, and more importantly their incompetence has cost me a lot of time with my children.

Great staff to work with.Office manager did great accommodating our needs

Sean is the best. I go to him for all my legal advice. He explains things well, helps me with paperwork, and is really good about making sure I get what I want.

Sean Trimble has been so amazing to work with. He is very knowledgeable and goes above and beyond to make sure that I understand each step of the way. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal council.

I found the staff to be friendly and eager to help.