Filing for divorce in Pennsylvania involves several essential steps. Here’s a breakdown of Step One: filing the Notice to Defend, Complaint, and Verification (Form 1).
Step One: The Notice to Defend, Complaint, and Verification
- Filing the Complaint: The divorce process begins with filing a “Complaint” in the court. This document outlines the grounds for your divorce and other relevant information regarding your marriage and any other divorce-related issues (like custody, child support, or property division).
- The Notice to Defend and Claim Rights: This form must be attached at the top of your Complaint. It serves as a notification to your spouse that you are initiating a divorce and that they have specific rights they must assert if they intend to contest the divorce or any other matters in the case. It also provides your spouse with important instructions about the next steps they must take.
- The Verification: The Verification must be attached to the bottom of the Complaint. It is a statement in which you swear under oath that the information provided in the Complaint is true to the best of your knowledge.
- Filing Fee: When you file these documents, you will need to pay a filing fee to the court. However, if you are unable to afford the fee, you may request to proceed In Forma Pauperis (meaning “as a poor person”) by submitting a separate form requesting a fee waiver along with your Complaint.
- Court Docket Number: When you file the Complaint and attached forms, the court will assign a docket number. This docket number is crucial, and you must use it on all future documents you file in the case to identify it.
- Caption: The caption is the section at the top of the forms that includes important information: the name of the county, your name, your spouse’s name, and the docket number. It must appear consistently on all filings related to your divorce.
Key Documents Needed:
- Complaint: Outlines the divorce and any claims for support, custody, etc.
- Notice to Defend: Informs your spouse about the divorce filing and their rights.
- Verification: Affirms that the Complaint’s contents are true.
Filing Location:
- You will file these forms in the county where either you or your spouse resides. The office that handles these legal pleadings is usually the Prothonotary in your county.
Divorce Lawyer R. Badet
If you’re starting the divorce process, Divorce Lawyer R. Badet can help you with every step of the way, including the preparation and filing of the necessary documents. He charges $599 for simple divorces and offers personalized service throughout the process.
If you’re searching for “divorce lawyers nearby” or need assistance, consider scheduling a consultation with Divorce Lawyer R. Badet to discuss your situation.
Visit www.lawyersfordivorces.net or call 267-277-2641 for a free consultation.
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