FAMILY LAW - DIVORCE LITIGATION
Divorce is never easy, but our experienced divorce attorneys will guide you through
the entire divorce process. We help you every step, from the initial filing to the
final decree. Along the way, we answer your questions, address your concerns, and
provide you options that will allow you to meet your goals.
We provide knowledgeable, fast, efficient and cost-effective assistance in related
divorce matters including:
- Alternative dispute resolution (mediation, arbitration and collaborative law)
- Child custody
- Child support
- Child visitation
- Spousal Support/Alimony
- Disbursement of property, including complex assets
Pennsylvania has three options for the dissolution of marriage:
No-fault divorce: You don't need a reason to divorce if either of these situations
applies:
- Your spouse consents to the divorce. You both sign an affidavit stating that
you agree to dissolve the marriage. The request is granted after a 90-day 'cooling
off' period offered for potential reconciliation.
- If you have been separated for two years, a unilateral divorce can be obtained,
even if the other person will not consent. As soon as all
the paperwork is filed, you can be divorced (unless there are contested issues that
are unresolved).
Fault-based divorce: Results when the other spouse will not consent to end
the marriage and you are unwilling to wait for the two year separation. You must
prove the other spouse is at fault for the marriage failing, and that you are an
innocent and injured spouse. There are seven grounds for fault divorce that are recognized
by the court: desertion, cruel and barbarous treatment, bigamy, indignities (poor
treatment), imprisonment, insanity, and adultery. This can take from 6 months to
2 years.
Annulment: The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania can annul a marriage. You must prove
that you were married under false pretenses, that you were unable to give consent
at the time of the marriage, or that the marriage was illegal. No waiting period
nor consent is necessary for annulment. A church annulment is not legally recognized.
When amicable dissolution of marriage is not achievable, divorce litigation
becomes necessary. Litigation takes much preparation, and we work hard to secure
relevant documentation to assist in our aggressive support of our client's position.
You likely have many questions about the ways you will be affected in the ensuing
weeks and months after the divorce process begins. Some questions you might have
include:
- Who will live in the marital home?
- Who will pay for life and/or health insurance?
- How will I pay my bills during the divorce proceedings and after it is over?
- How will my children be affected by the process?
- Will I get what I want in the divorce?
- Who gets what?
Contact us today and we can begin answering any questions you may have about divorce
and divorce litigation.
|