How to Prepare for Divorce in Pennsylvania
Preparing for divorce in Pennsylvania can feel overwhelming, especially with the state's specific timelines and property laws. The more organized you are before filing, the more control you retain over the process from every angle, including financially, legally, and emotionally.
Understanding Divorce Laws in Pennsylvania
Fault Type
Both fault and no-fault
Waiting Period
90 days for mutual consent
Property Division
Equitable distribution
Residency Requirement
6 months in PA
- Pennsylvania allows both fault and no-fault divorce.
- Mutual consent divorce requires a 90-day waiting period.
- Fault-based divorce may affect property division.
How to Prepare for Divorce in Pennsylvania
⚖️ Legal Preparation
- Collect marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, and prior court orders
- Understand residency requirements (6 months in PA)
- Decide whether an attorney or mediator best fits your situation
- Research Pennsylvania's both fault and no-fault divorce options
💰 Financial Preparation
- List all assets, debts, and income sources
- Gather tax returns (last 3–5 years)
- Open accounts in your own name
- Document all shared accounts and credit cards
Marital property is divided equitably based on factors including length of marriage and earning capacity.
👨👩👧👦 If You Have Children
- Learn Pennsylvania custody standards
- Document children's schools, healthcare, and activities
- Consider ideal custody schedules
- Gather records of parenting involvement
Pennsylvania custody laws focus on the best interest of the child, considering factors like parental duties and stability.
🔐 Personal & Digital Preparation
- Secure passwords and financial access
- Preserve important communications
- Build emotional and logistical support
- Create copies of important documents
Pennsylvania Divorce Resources
Stay Organized with Divorce Diary
Divorce Diary helps you track documents, deadlines, and decisions so nothing gets missed during Pennsylvania's divorce timeline. Walk into your first attorney meeting prepared and saving $1,000+ in intake fees.
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