Understanding Divorce in Pennsylvania
In a typical year, the National Center for Health Statistics reports that about 2.4 out of 1,000 people get divorced. Unfortunately, experiencing this process is never easy. By learning what to expect from divorce in Pennsylvania, you can make sure you’re prepared.
What Are the Grounds for Divorce in Pennsylvania?
Once you reach out to a PA divorce lawyer about your case, the first thing you’ll need to do is determine your grounds for divorce in Pennsylvania. Basically, this means you need to decide if it’s a no-fault or fault-based divorce.
No-Fault Divorces
While Pennsylvania recognizes both types of divorce, most people go with the no-fault option. Both partners simply agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken. After a 90-day waiting period, they can file consent affidavits. If you have lived apart for at least a year, you can file this type of divorce on your own.
Fault-Based Divorces
In the past, fault-based divorces were more common than they are today. While they may be less frequent, they’re still important to understand. They could be filed for if any of the following factors were involved.
- Adultery
- Cruelty or abuse
- Desertion for at least a year
- Bigamy
- Incarcerations lasting longer than a year
How To File for Divorce in PA
Next, your divorce lawyer will walk you through how to file for divorce in PA and what you’ll need to file your divorce case.
- First, you must live in Pennsylvania for at least six months.
- Once you file your divorce complaint with the Court of Common Pleas in your county or your spouse’s county, the case officially begins.
- Following the divorce complaint in Newfoundland, the other spouse will be notified that divorce proceedings have begun. They are given a chance to respond to the notification.
- Before you can finalize the divorce, you and your spouse must finalize alimony arrangements, the division of property, child custody, and child support. If these decisions aren’t made during mediation or a settlement, they can be solved in the courtroom.
- Finally, the final decree is issued after all of the divorce requirements have been met.
How Long Will It Take To Get Divorced in Pennsylvania?
When it comes to how long a divorce takes in Pennsylvania, each case is different. If both partners are on the same page and agree, a divorce can wrap up in as little as three months. For complex or disputed cases, it can take over a year to finalize the divorce.
The Advantages of Working With a Pennsylvania Divorce Attorney
Learning how to file for divorce can be challenging. When your financial health and emotional well-being are on the line, you don’t want to take any chances. By turning to one of our experienced PA divorce lawyers, you can enjoy a few key benefits.
Get Expert Legal Help
While you can technically file for divorce in Pennsylvania on your own, this is generally not a good idea. The divorce process can be quite complex, so it pays to have an experienced attorney on your side.
Give Yourself a Break
Divorces are often emotionally charged situations. You don’t have to put yourself under any more emotional strain than you absolutely have to. By getting legal help, you can get emotional support and professional guidance on how to pursue your case. If your spouse tries to argue, your lawyer can handle the response so that you don’t have to.
Protect Your Rights
Your PA divorce lawyer can help you protect your rights. From an equitable distribution of assets to alimony, your case’s outcome will play a major role in determining your future security.
Simplify the Process
Often, a skilled attorney knows how to speed up the proceedings. They can shorten the duration of the case, so you spend less time and money on getting a divorce.
Take Advantage of Better Negotiation Skills
Whether you need help with divorce mediation or want to negotiate a fair settlement, an experienced lawyer can help. They can draft legally binding agreements and help you achieve the best results.
Represent You in Court
More importantly, your attorney represents your interests in court. Your lawyer will cross-examine witnesses, prepare your legal strategy, and present your case before the court.
When Do You Need a Divorce Attorney?
There are a few situations where it really pays to have an attorney. If your former spouse has an attorney or there are children involved, you should talk to a lawyer right away. Additionally, you should consider getting a divorce attorney if significant assets are involved, there was a history of abuse, or you feel overwhelmed by your case. No matter what type of manipulation or dishonesty occurs on the other side, your attorney will make sure your rights are protected.
Book Your Consultation Today
A divorce can determine how often you get to see your children, whether you keep your home, and what your future finances will look like. You don’t want to leave any of these matters up to fate. By partnering with a skilled attorney at the Clause Law Group, you can make sure your legal requirements are met and gain an advocate for your interests.
Learn more about the process for getting a divorce in Pennsylvania by reaching out to our legal team today.
