Articles

Modifying a child custody order is always based on the best interests of the child. Courts prioritize the child’s well-being and safety when reviewing requests for custody changes. 1. Standards for Modifying a Custody Order Unlike some legal matters, a custody modification does not require proof of a specific “change in circumstances.” However, courts will […]

Getting married in Pennsylvania requires fulfilling specific legal requirements to ensure the marriage is valid. These include obtaining a marriage license, having a legal ceremony, and meeting certain eligibility criteria for the bride and groom. 1. Requirements for a Ceremonial Marriage A ceremonial marriage in Pennsylvania requires two key components: A. Marriage License B. Marriage […]

Are you considering a divorce in Philadelphia? The process can be complex, but with the right legal guidance, you can navigate it smoothly. The Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas, located at 1501 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19102, handles divorce cases. The court operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:15 PM. Divorces in […]

For a Pennsylvania court to handle a divorce case, it must have subject matter jurisdiction and personal jurisdiction over the parties involved. Understanding Residence and Domicile In divorce jurisdiction cases, two key terms apply: Six-Month Residency Requirement To establish personal jurisdiction, the filing spouse must have lived in Pennsylvania for at least six months before […]

Filing for divorce in Pennsylvania involves a structured legal process, beginning with the submission of required court documents. Below is a step-by-step guide to help navigate the filing process. Step 1: File the Divorce Complaint A divorce case officially begins when you file a Complaint with the appropriate court. Required Forms: These forms must be […]

In certain situations, grandparents may be granted custody or visitation rights if it is in the best interest of the child. Courts recognize the importance of maintaining relationships between children and grandparents, particularly when parents are unable to provide adequate care. When Can a Grandparent Get Custody? A court may grant custody to a grandparent […]

Pennsylvania law recognizes fault-based divorce, meaning that one spouse must prove misconduct by the other to be granted a divorce. The grounds for fault-based divorce include: Grounds for Fault-Based Divorce 1. Adultery Engaging in voluntary sexual relations with someone other than a spouse constitutes adultery, which is a fault-based ground for divorce. 2. Cruelty (Physical […]

In Pennsylvania, dividing property during a divorce follows a two-step process: Marital Property Marital property includes: Key Consideration: Title ownership does not matter—if an asset was acquired during the marriage, it is typically considered marital property. Separate Property Some assets are considered separate property and are not subject to division: Key Consideration: The date the […]

Defenses for Fault-Based Divorces in Pennsylvania In Pennsylvania, certain defenses can be used to challenge a fault-based divorce claim. These defenses may prevent the court from granting a divorce on fault grounds. The primary defenses include: 1. Recrimination A defense to adultery, recrimination occurs when the plaintiff (the spouse filing for divorce) is also guilty […]

Child Support in Pennsylvania Both parents have a legal obligation to financially support their minor children. Child support is not a negotiable matter—it is a right that belongs to the child, meaning that parents cannot waive it in prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. Any such agreement would be considered void under public policy. How Child Support […]