For every 1000 people in the US, approximately two are divorced or in the process of getting a divorce. Are you one of them? If so, you may be preparing to sign a legally-binding divorce agreement.
As common as divorce is, it may surprise you that the process of getting a divorce can be complicated in Pennsylvania. Keep reading this divorce and divorce lawyer guide to learn why.
1. Your Spouse Can Stop the Divorce
In Pennsylvania, the only way to get a divorce immediately is to file for divorce by mutual consent. That requires you and your spouse to agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
If the two of you are not in agreement, your spouse can prevent a quick divorce. Non-mutual divorces require couples to prove an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage AND live apart for at least 12 months.
2. The Court May Order Family Counseling
Pennsylvania judges have an interest in keeping families together. So, your judge may order you and your spouse to undergo counseling. This is especially true if you and your spouse have children together.
3. There Are Financial Factors to Consider
One of the biggest components of any divorce is the division of assets and liabilities. In Pennsylvania, courts typically order equal division of marital property and debts only.
Any assets or debts you accumulated before the marriage are non-marital property. Non-marital property belongs to the person whose name is on the title.
4. Couples With Children Must Determine Custody
Another major component of divorce proceedings is child custody agreements. You and your spouse will have to decide where the child(ren) will live and when, as well as who will make legal and medical decisions for them.
You and your spouse should ideally come up with a mutually acceptable parenting agreement. If you can not, the court will come up with a custody agreement for you.
5. You Need a Divorce Lawyer to Protect Your Rights
Some couples choose to undergo divorce proceedings without legal representation. While this option may save you money, you could end up sacrificing your rights.
If you want fair and equal division of assets and child custody agreements, you need a divorce attorney. There are many kinds of lawyers out there, but only one who specializes in family law has the expertise you need.
A high-quality lawyer will know how to wrap up proceedings as quickly as possible with a divorce settlement. He or she can also advise you on how to proceed if your divorce ends up more complicated than you thought.
Are You Searching for a Divorce Agreement Attorney in PA?
Getting a divorce in Pennsylvania is not always a straightforward process. Having significant assets (or debts) or children can complicate things further. That is why you need a local divorce lawyer on your side.
Are you preparing to sign a divorce agreement in Pennsylvania? The family lawyers at Crosson Richetti & Daigle are here for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our expert divorce attorneys.
