how to pick a divorce lawyer in pa

by Michel Wunsch 4 min read

How to Choose a Divorce Lawyer in Pennsylvania
  1. Find a Divorce Lawyer with Experience in Your Jurisdiction. ...
  2. Determine What Kind of Legal Services You Need. ...
  3. Decide What You Can Afford. ...
  4. Ask for Referrals and View Testimonials Online. ...
  5. Find a Divorce Lawyer Who Focuses on Family Law. ...
  6. Contact a Divorce Lawyer for Help Today.
Aug 28, 2018

How much does a typical divorce cost in PA?

approximately $14,300The average cost of divorce in Pennsylvania state is approximately $14,300. The expenses can reach $21,500 if there are children or property involved. The average filing fees in Pennsylvania are $350.

Who pays for the divorce lawyer in PA?

In Pennsylvania the court has the power to order one spouse to pay for the other's attorney fees. The judge will consider factors such as the income gap between the parties and whether both are acting in good faith.

Is it better to file for divorce first in PA?

When Both Individuals Live in Pennsylvania. If both you and your partner currently reside within the state, there is no true advantage to filing first. Even if you file first, the case will usually be held at the Court of Common Pleas in the defendant's county, or the county where you married, by default.

What is the easiest way to get a divorce in PA?

A mutual consent divorce is a faster divorce process than traditional divorce—you can get divorced in three to four months, rather than the standard two or more years. However, to take advantage of a mutual consent divorce, both spouses must agree to the divorce and sign papers stating that each is in agreement.

Who gets house in divorce PA?

Generally there are two options when it comes to dealing with the house in a divorce: The house is sold and the parties split the proceeds or the house is retained by one party and the value of the house is attributed to the party retaining it for the purpose of effectuating an equitable distribution.

How long does a divorce take in PA?

Divorce in Pennsylvania can take between 90 days and 12 months on average, depending on whether it is a fault or a no-fault one. The mandatory waiting period for a no-fault marriage dissolution is 90 days. The average contested divorce takes 5-12 months, and an uncontested one – around 4-6 months.

What is a wife entitled to in a divorce in PA?

A spouse is entitled to alimony only if the court decides that alimony is “necessary.” To decide whether alimony is necessary, how much should be paid, and how long it should be paid, the court must consider many factors – including but not limited to the relative income and earning capacities of the parties, the ages ...

Does Pa require separation before divorce?

There is a One-Year Waiting Period For Filing for a No-Fault Divorce. If a couple is seeking a divorce without establishing grounds for fault (discussed further below), then Pennsylvania law imposes a one-year waiting period from the time of separation before either spouse can file for divorce.

Is dating during separation adultery in PA?

Is it okay to date when you're separated? It is okay, providing you do it right. If you start seeing someone else before you and your spouse decide to divorce or before you physically separate, it is considered adultery.

Does it make a difference who files for divorce first?

Filing for divorce first does not give you any inherent rights over your spouse. One benefit is that if the specific facts of your case warrant, you could have a choice of which county—and sometimes which state — to file the paperwork in. To be clear, you cannot just file in any ol' location.

Is Pennsylvania a 50 50 state when it comes to divorce?

False. While some states (most famously, California) mandate a 50/50 distribution of marital property, Pennsylvania does not. Pennsylvania is an equitable distribution state.

Can you be separated and live in the same house in PA?

In Pennsylvania, when a couple separates it does not have to be a physical separation. In fact, spouses can be separated while still living in the same house, possibly even in the same bedroom.