Are you looking to end your marriage in Philadelphia? One simple way to do so 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 to the dissolution of their marriage. In such cases, the court’s role is minimal, usually just providing an order that reflects the parties’ agreement. This type of divorce tends to be faster and less expensive.
A contested divorce, however, arises when the spouses cannot agree on the terms of the divorce. In these cases, the court intervenes to help the parties reach a resolution. As part of the contested divorce process, the spouses must undergo non-binding mediation, where a neutral third party facilitates discussions to help resolve the issues. If successful, mediation can lead to the closure of the divorce case.
Additionally, divorces in Philadelphia can be either at-fault or no-fault. In an at-fault divorce, one spouse accuses the other of wrongdoing, such as adultery, abuse, or abandonment. Some states do not consider at-fault divorces.
The court in Philadelphia must finalize the divorce and determine the parties’ rights and responsibilities regarding child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support (alimony), and the division of marital assets.
Property division in a Philadelphia divorce can be straightforward or complex. Disagreements over asset division often arise, which can lead to conflicts. Enlisting the help of an experienced divorce lawyer in Philadelphia can ease the stress of the divorce process and ensure that you make informed decisions. A skilled divorce lawyer will be familiar with all aspects of divorce proceedings. If both parties agree to alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods such as arbitration or mediation, hiring a divorce lawyer with expertise in mediation might be the best approach.
Divorce lawyers are also well-versed in handling child custody matters. Many divorce lawyers in Philadelphia are certified as family law specialists, having met specific qualifications.
Whether you’ve agreed with your spouse to divorce or received a petition from your spouse, consulting with a local divorce attorney is essential to understand the steps involved in the process. A knowledgeable family law attorney will discuss your case and guide you toward the best course of action.
While it’s possible to come to an agreement with your spouse regarding the terms of the divorce, consulting with a divorce lawyer remains crucial. When looking for a lawyer, choose one with experience handling divorce cases and a proven track record of success. It’s important to find a lawyer who will stand by you throughout the proceedings and help you make the best decisions for your future.