Are you looking to end your marriage in Philadelphia? A straightforward way to do so is by filing for divorce in the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas. The courthouse is located at 1501 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19102, and is open on weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:15 pm.
Divorces in Philadelphia can be either contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on the dissolution of their marriage, requiring minimal court involvement to finalize the terms both parties have already agreed upon. This type of divorce is usually quicker and more affordable.
In contrast, a contested divorce arises when the spouses cannot agree on how to end their marriage, necessitating court intervention to help them reach a resolution. As part of the contested divorce process, the court may require mediation, where a neutral third party assists the spouses in resolving their issues. If successful, the case can be concluded through mutual agreement.
Additionally, divorces can be categorized as at-fault or no-fault. In an at-fault divorce, one spouse accuses the other of misconduct, such as adultery, abuse, or abandonment. Some states do not consider at-fault grounds for divorce.
The divorce process in Philadelphia involves the court dissolving the marriage and determining the rights and responsibilities of both parties regarding child custody, visitation, child support, and spousal support (alimony). The court will also divide marital assets.
Property division can be simple or complicated in a Philadelphia divorce. Disagreements over how property should be shared can often lead to conflict during this stage.
Hiring an experienced divorce lawyer in Philadelphia can reduce the stress of the divorce process and ensure you make informed decisions. A skilled divorce attorney will be familiar with all aspects of divorce filing and legal requirements. If both spouses are open to alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or arbitration, a divorce mediation lawyer may be an ideal choice.
Many Philadelphia divorce attorneys specialize in family law, including child custody issues. These attorneys must meet specific criteria to be recognized as family law specialists.
If you and your spouse have agreed to divorce or if you’ve received a divorce petition, consulting with a local divorce lawyer is crucial to understand all aspects of the process. A qualified family law attorney will explain your options and help you navigate the situation.
Even if you and your spouse reach an agreement on key divorce issues, consulting with a divorce lawyer is still important. When looking for a lawyer, choose one with proven experience in handling divorce cases and a strong track record of success.
Ultimately, it’s important to find an attorney who will support you throughout the entire divorce process and help you make the best decisions for your future.