Are you considering ending your marriage in Philadelphia? The process begins by filing for divorce at the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas, located at 1501 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19102. The court 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 to the legal dissolution of their marriage. In this case, the court mainly ensures that the parties’ mutual agreement is legally formalized, making the process faster and more affordable.
On the other hand, a contested divorce happens when the spouses cannot reach an agreement regarding the dissolution of their marriage, and the court must step in to help facilitate a resolution. Mediation, where a neutral third party helps the couple resolve their disputes, is a required part of contested divorce. If successful, mediation may lead to the case’s resolution.
Additionally, divorces can be classified as at-fault or no-fault. An at-fault divorce involves one spouse accusing the other of wrongdoings, such as adultery, abuse, or abandonment, which are grounds for divorce. Some states do not consider at-fault reasons in divorce cases.
In a divorce proceeding, the court must officially terminate the marriage and determine the rights and responsibilities of the parties involved concerning child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support (alimony), and property division. The distribution of assets can sometimes be straightforward but may also become contentious if the parties disagree on how property should be split.
Hiring an experienced divorce lawyer in Philadelphia can help minimize the stress of the divorce process and ensure the right decisions are made. A competent divorce lawyer is well-versed in the complexities of filing for divorce and can guide you through the process, especially if alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, like arbitration or mediation, are appropriate.
Divorce attorneys are also trained to handle child custody matters. Many lawyers in Philadelphia specialize in family law and must meet specific criteria to be recognized as such.
Whether you’ve reached an agreement with your spouse or have been served with a divorce petition, consulting a local divorce attorney is crucial to understanding the implications of the divorce process. A skilled family law attorney will discuss your options and advise you on the best path forward.
While it’s possible to reach an agreement with your spouse regarding rights and responsibilities, consulting a divorce lawyer remains essential. When looking for an attorney, ensure you choose one with experience handling divorce cases and a proven track record.
Lastly, select an attorney who will stand by you throughout the process, supporting you in making the best decisions for your divorce.