A Hatboro Divorce Lawyer Can Help You Through This Trying Time
You may be wondering if you need legal representation in a divorce. In the majority of cases, the answer is “yes.” If the case is contested and/or your spouse has a lawyer, you need one, too.
At the Law Offices of Don J. Solomon, we protect the rights and interests of people facing divorce in Pennsylvania. Attorney Don J. Solomon has more than 25 years of experience resolving family law cases. He assists Montgomery County families that are going through issues such as divorce, custody, child support and more. He will take you through every step of the process and be by your side, whether you seek a divorce settlement or a trial.
Which Disagreements Cause The Most Complications In A Divorce?
Typically, the most highly disputed issues in a divorce are child custody and alimony (spousal support).
Child custody: It is not surprising that parents want to spend as much time with their children as possible, which often leads to disputes. The more acrimonious the divorce, the more likely that the custody battle will be heated. In some instances, one parent may use the children to punish the other parent. In other cases, one parent may have mental health or substance abuse problems that make them unfit. Regardless of the reasons, parents often argue vigorously about custody.
Alimony: Arguments over money are extremely common between spouses, so it is no surprise that alimony is a contentious issue in a divorce. If there is an income disparity between them, the higher earner may feel like their spouse does not deserve much of their salary. The spouse who may have stayed home to raise the children, however, may think that they contributed to the household just as much.
What Is The Timeline For Filing A Divorce In Pennsylvania?
In general, the Pennsylvania divorce process timeline follows this schedule:
- One spouse files a complaint for divorce.
- A copy of the complaint must be served on the other spouse within 30 days. They then must respond within 20 days.
- Next, there is a mandatory 90-day waiting period. When that is over, the spouses provide an affidavit of consent to the court.
- After 90 days, the divorce may proceed. The exact time it takes at this point will vary based on how long the spouses dispute the issues.
- Note: In a no-fault divorce, there is a one-year separation before a divorce can be filed.
Each divorce is unique and the factors in your case will determine how long the process will take.
What Are The Types Of Divorce In Pennsylvania?
Knowing your divorce options can help you make wise decisions. There are several different types of divorce available in Pennsylvania, including:
No-Fault Divorce
This is also referred to as a 3301(d) divorce. It relies on a period of separation and couples simply have to cite irreconcilable differences and an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. There is no need to prove that either party caused the divorce.
Fault-Based Divorce
You can also choose to file a fault-based divorce, meaning you will list grounds for the divorce case to demonstrate that one party is at fault for the ending of the marriage. Common grounds used in Pennsylvania include adultery, cruelty, desertion, abandonment, bigamy and incarceration.
Contested Divorce
This means that a spouse contests the terms of the divorce. For a resolution, divorce litigation may be necessary to get a court ruling regarding physical and legal child custody, the division of marital assets, and the payment of spousal support.
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on key issues like property division, custody and support. Because there are no disputes to resolve, the process is usually faster and more predictable. The court primarily reviews the parties’ agreement and ensures it meets Pennsylvania’s legal requirements, which helps prevent the time and expense of full litigation.
How Much Does A Pennsylvania Divorce Cost?
An uncontested divorce is often less expensive because cooperative spouses can usually proceed on a flat‑fee basis. Contested cases, where spouses dispute custody or assets, are typically billed hourly and may take significantly longer to resolve. Many couples must pay an attorney retainer, which serves as an upfront deposit for ongoing work. They are also responsible for court filing fees, which vary by county and the type of petition filed, but generally fall between $300 and $500.
What Counts As A “Date Of Separation” In Pennsylvania?
The date of separation matters in a 3301(d) no‑fault divorce because spouses must live separate and apart for one year before moving forward. It also marks the point when marital assets and debts stop accumulating, which directly affects property division. Pennsylvania allows spouses to be legally separated even if they remain in the same home.
Separation begins once one or both spouses decide the marriage is over and clearly communicate that intent to the other.
Let Us Help With Your Pennsylvania Divorce Proceedings
Our Hatboro family law attorney represents people in Hatboro, Warminster, Horsham and Willow Grove in Pennsylvania divorces. Call 215-883-7179 or contact us online today to set up an appointment.