OR SB1557

Modifies procedures for initiating remedial contempt proceedings, requiring contempt plaintiffs to file a complaint with an affidavit or declaration under penalty of perjury and an ex parte motion requesting the defendant appear in court

Allows courts to dismiss contempt actions if the plaintiff fails to establish a prima facie case, and permits default judgments under ORCP 69 when defendants fail to appear at scheduled hearings

Requires courts to inform unrepresented contempt defendants of their right to retained counsel and, if confinement is sought as a sanction, their right to appointed counsel if financially eligible

Authorizes courts to award attorney fees and costs to prevailing parties, and allows plaintiffs to recover fees even when cases are dismissed if the defendant's cure resulted from the plaintiff's complaint

Establishes venue rules specifying contempt actions must be tried in the circuit court that issued the underlying order, where the violation occurred, or where the defendant resides