Family law in Pennsylvania continues to evolve as families face new challenges and legal frameworks adapt to modern needs. Whether you’re going through a divorce, fighting for custody, or looking to protect your rights as a grandparent, understanding the legal landscape is key. At Crosson & Richetti, a full-service law firm serving the Lehigh Valley, PA, we help clients make informed decisions that protect their families and their futures.
Understanding Divorce in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law provides multiple legal paths for ending a marriage. Understanding your rights and obligations during divorce proceedings can protect your financial stability and parental rights.
Residency Requirements
To file for divorce in Pennsylvania, at least one spouse must have resided in the state for a minimum of six months prior to filing. Lehigh Valley residents typically file in Northampton or Lehigh County.
No-Fault vs. Fault-Based Divorce
- No-Fault Divorce: Most common; requires a 90-day mutual consent period or a one-year separation period without consent.
- Fault-Based Divorce: Requires proving grounds like adultery, cruelty, or abandonment. Less common but strategically important in some high-conflict cases.
Division of Assets
Pennsylvania is an equitable distribution state, meaning property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Factors include:
- Length of the marriage
- Contributions to the household
- Earning capacities of each spouse
Important: Equitable distribution does not always mean a 50/50 split. Having an experienced attorney helps ensure a fair outcome.
Spousal Support & Alimony
Support may be granted before and after the divorce is finalized. Types include:
- Spousal Support (pre-divorce)
- Alimony Pendente Lite (APL) (during litigation)
- Alimony (post-divorce)
Learn more about our Divorce services
Child Custody & Support: 2025 Updates for Pennsylvania Families
Children’s needs come first in any custody or support decision. Courts aim to serve the child’s best interest through thoughtful evaluation.
Legal vs. Physical Custody
- Legal Custody: The right to make major decisions (e.g., education, medical care)
- Physical Custody: Where the child lives
Types of arrangements include:
- Shared custody
- Primary custody with visitation
- Sole custody (rare)
Factors Courts Consider
- Child’s needs
- Stability of each parent’s home
- History of abuse or neglect
- Child’s preference (if mature enough)
Modifications in 2025
Post-pandemic case backlogs have made it more important than ever to document changes in circumstances before requesting modifications.
Child Support Calculations
Support is calculated based on:
- Income of both parents
- Number of children
- Custodial arrangement
2025 Update: New income brackets and support schedules took effect this year. This impacts many Lehigh Valley families and may warrant a support order review.
Explore our Child Custody and Support services
Grandparents’ Rights in Pennsylvania
Grandparents play a critical role in many children’s lives. In Pennsylvania, they may have the right to:
- Seek visitation
- Petition for custody (in certain situations)
When Can Grandparents Petition?
- If a parent is deceased
- If the child has lived with them for 12 months
- If the family is going through a divorce
Custody is never guaranteed. Legal counsel helps build a strong, evidence-based case.
Understand your rights as a Grandparent
LGBT Family Law: Inclusive Legal Guidance in 2025
Crosson & Richetti is proud to support LGBTQ+ families in Lehigh Valley.
Common Legal Matters Include:
- Second-parent or step-parent adoption
- Divorce and custody for same-sex couples
- Estate planning and powers of attorney
PA Law in 2025
While Pennsylvania recognizes same-sex marriage, legal gaps still exist around:
- Presumed parentage
- Surrogacy rights
- Discrimination in custody cases
Having an affirming legal partner is essential for equitable outcomes.
Learn more about LGBT Family Law
Adoption Law: Building Families with Legal Confidence
Adoption is a beautiful but complex process. Pennsylvania law offers several paths:
- Agency Adoptions
- Private/Independent Adoptions
- Relative/Kinship Adoptions
What to Expect:
- Home study
- Termination of birth parents’ rights
- Court hearing for finalization
Tip: Having legal representation from day one avoids delays and ensures compliance with state law.
Domestic Violence Protections
If you or your child are experiencing abuse, legal protection is available through a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order.
Types of PFA Orders:
- Emergency Orders: Filed through police when courts are closed
- Temporary Orders: Last until a hearing
- Final Orders: Up to 3 years
Crosson & Richetti offers urgent representation in these sensitive matters.
Learn about Domestic Violence legal options
Estate Planning After Divorce or Remarriage
Life changes should prompt an update to your estate plan. We help clients revise:
- Wills
- Powers of Attorney
- Guardianship designations
- Health care directives
Especially after a divorce or remarriage, ensure your documents reflect your current wishes.
See our Estate Planning & Administration services
Why Work with Crosson & Richetti
Crosson & Richetti is deeply rooted in the Lehigh Valley community. Our compassionate, experienced, and client-focused team delivers results with integrity and clarity.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Decades of family law experience
- Local knowledge of Lehigh County and Northampton County courts
- Custom strategies for every client
Read more about Our Approach
Schedule a Consultation
Legal issues involving your family are never easy. But with the right legal partner, you can move forward confidently.
Let us help you navigate 2025 with clarity, compassion, and strength. Contact Crosson & Richetti today to schedule a consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal guidance, please contact our office.
