Upper Dublin Divorce Lawyers

PA Divorce Process

By Amy R. Stern, Esq.

No one imagines needing to get a divorce after they marry, but it does happen for many individuals and couples. Often one partner is willing to put in the hard work to make necessary changes, but another fails to see how this effort is worth it. While a couple may enter the separation stage and hope this makes a significant difference and improves the relationship, this does not always happen. Deciding on divorce may be an important and healthy decision for many relationships, but this does not always mean the process is easy.

If you are interested in streamlining the divorce process and making a healthy decision for your relationship, Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. divorce lawyers may be able to offer the help and information you need. Our team is talented and dedicated to supporting its clients, working hard to bring them the best possible results. While the divorce process may be challenging to navigate if you work independently, we have the resources and strategies to simplify each step and reduce stress for our clients.

How Does Consent to Divorce in Pennsylvania Work?

In most circumstances, each person involved in your marriage must consent to a divorce. Because Pennsylvania is a no-fault state regarding divorce, the court may not want to hear your grounds for divorce unless one of you fails to consent.

Additionally, consent forms cannot be signed until someone serves the divorce complaint and an additional 90 days pass. Further, a divorce is only final once all assets, debts, and other contentions are addressed and divided among the respective parties. Because it may be tedious and overwhelming to address these concerns, speaking with a divorce lawyer may be essential. Especially if you want to avoid unnecessary stress and improve the likelihood of a favorable division, we recommend you retain a divorce attorney as soon as possible.

How Are Assets Divided in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, you are not likely to automatically receive half of your marriage’s assets and belongings. Generally, the court utilizes Equitable Distribution to divide the assets related to your divorce, meaning you will likely receive what is fair for your particular circumstances and marriage factors.

One partner causing the dissolution does not necessarily impact how assets are ultimately divided. This means that initiating the divorce will not likely negatively impact the assets and debts you are able to receive. Additionally, one spouse cheating and initiating the divorce will not make a difference. However, the court will weigh significant factors related to your marriage while making decisions, including the length of time you were married to each other, the age of each party, and each person’s income.

How Long Does the Divorce Process Take in Pennsylvania?

When you initiate the divorce process, knowing there is no set length is essential. If details are already ironed out, your divorce may be official within 90 days of submitting a divorce complaint. For a more amicable split, this may be the best-case scenario you can expect.

Unfortunately, the process may be drawn out mainly if one party does not consent to the divorce. This means your party may make you wait up to two years before the process moves forward. However, if the other party forces you to wait two years, this does not necessarily mean your divorce is finalized. This waiting period only forces the end of your two-year separation period, permitting the moving party to request a move forward with the court. In the worst scenarios, your divorce may take several years.

We strongly recommend you retain a divorce attorney for help to avoid unnecessary waiting. Your lawyer will likely assist you in dividing assets, act as a mediator between each party, and fight in your favor, so you receive what is fair. We also suggest you speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Should You Hire a Lawyer to Handle Your Pennsylvania Divorce?

We recommend you speak with and retain a divorce attorney for help if you are heading into the divorce process. Your attorney may be able to assist you in several ways, streamlining the process and reducing your divorce-related stress for the duration of the process. A lawyer may help you in any of the following ways:

  • Legal knowledge
  • Negotiation tactics
  • Handle other legal representation
  • Speak on your behalf
  • Organize and suggest asset division
  • Speak with the other parties
  • Establish arguments in your favor
  • Reduce stress
  • Speed up the divorce process
  • Complete and file paperwork
  • Maintain your schedule
  • Provide you with helpful resources and information
  • Strategize vital next steps for your case

Working with a lawyer as soon as possible is strongly recommended, as this will likely help you receive the assets that fairly and rightfully belong to you. Your lawyer is also much more likely to represent you accurately and favorably during any proceedings, allowing you to avoid mistakes and short-change yourself.

Getting Divorced in Pennsylvania? Work With Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. for Essential Help

If you are considering divorce, you may need assistance from a qualified and talented divorce lawyer at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. Our team has worked extensively to fight for its clients’ best interests, and we are committed to bringing great results to these individuals. Our clients trust us to endeavor toward their goals.

Please get in touch with our legal team to discuss your divorce details, express any relevant concerns, and receive helpful information. You can reach out to us by calling (215) 822-7575 or completing our contact form, whichever is easiest for you. Our team is excited to hear from you and fight for you.