Are you looking to end your marriage in Philadelphia? One straightforward way to do this is 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.
In Philadelphia, divorces can either be uncontested or contested. An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on ending their marriage and the terms of the divorce. The court’s role is minimal in these cases, as it simply formalizes the agreed-upon terms. Uncontested divorces are generally quicker and more affordable.
In contrast, a contested divorce takes place when the spouses cannot agree on the terms of the divorce, requiring court intervention to help them reach a resolution. In a contested divorce, both parties must participate in non-binding mediation, where a neutral third party attempts to facilitate a resolution. If successful, this may lead to the conclusion of the case.
Additionally, divorces in Philadelphia can be fault or no-fault. A fault divorce involves one spouse accusing the other of wrongdoing, such as adultery, abuse, or abandonment. However, not all states consider fault grounds for divorce.
Divorce proceedings in Philadelphia require the court to dissolve the marriage and establish the rights and responsibilities of both parties regarding child custody, visitation, child support, and spousal support (alimony). The court is also responsible for dividing marital assets between the spouses.
Property division in a divorce can be simple or complicated. Disagreements over how to divide assets often lead to conflict during this phase. Enlisting an experienced divorce lawyer in Philadelphia can help alleviate the stress of the divorce process and guide you toward the best decisions. A skilled lawyer is essential, especially if you and your spouse choose alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods like arbitration or mediation.
Many divorce lawyers in Philadelphia are trained to handle child custody issues, and some are certified family law specialists, meeting specific criteria to handle such cases.
If you’ve reached an agreement with your spouse to divorce or have received a petition for divorce, consulting a local divorce attorney is crucial to understanding all the steps involved. A qualified family law attorney can discuss your case and provide advice on the best options available.
Even if you and your spouse reach an agreement on the divorce terms, consulting with a divorce lawyer is still recommended. When choosing a lawyer, select one with extensive experience in handling divorce cases. Look for a lawyer who has a proven track record of successful outcomes in similar cases.
In conclusion, seek an attorney who will support you throughout the divorce process and help you make informed decisions about your future.