Divorce Lawyers in Reading, PA

Navigating the Divorce Process in Pennsylvania

Understanding how divorce works in Pennsylvania can help you prepare for the legal process. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Grounds for Divorce

Pennsylvania allows for both no-fault and fault-based divorces:

• No-Fault Divorce – When both spouses agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken, they can file for mutual consent divorce, which requires a 90-day waiting period.
• Fault-Based Divorce – If one spouse alleges adultery, abandonment, cruelty, or substance abuse, they may file for fault-based divorce, which could impact property division and spousal support.

2. Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

• Uncontested Divorce – Both spouses agree on all key issues, making the process quicker and less expensive.
• Contested Divorce – When spouses disagree on property division, custody, or financial matters, court intervention may be necessary.

3. Residency Requirements

To file for divorce in Pennsylvania, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months before filing.

The divorce process can be overwhelming, but our attorneys at Nevins & McAllister will guide you every step of the way.

Key Issues in Divorce Cases

A divorce is more than just the end of a marriage—it involves major legal and financial decisions that require careful negotiation. Our attorneys handle all aspects of divorce proceedings, including:

1. Property and Asset Division

Pennsylvania follows equitable distribution laws, meaning marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. We help clients:

• Identify marital vs. non-marital assets.
• Ensure a fair division of real estate, retirement accounts, and businesses.
• Protect inheritances, family businesses, and personal assets.

2. Child Custody and Visitation

If children are involved, determining custody arrangements is often the most emotionally charged aspect of divorce. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child and consider:

• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home.
• Parental involvement in the child’s education and daily life.
• Any history of abuse or substance abuse.

We advocate for fair and workable custody arrangements that benefit both parents and children.

3. Child Support

Pennsylvania law requires both parents to contribute to child-rearing costs. Child support is calculated based on:

• Each parent’s income.
• The child’s needs (education, medical care, and daily expenses).
• Existing custody arrangements.

We help establish, modify, and enforce child support orders to ensure fair financial responsibility.

4. Spousal Support and Alimony

Financial stability is a key concern during and after a divorce. Courts may award spousal support, alimony pendente lite (temporary support during divorce), or long-term alimony based on factors such as:

• Length of the marriage.
• Each spouse’s financial situation.
• Contributions to the marriage, including childcare and homemaking.
• Future earning potential.

We work to ensure fair alimony agreements that support our clients’ financial well-being.

5. High-Asset Divorce and Business Valuation

For individuals with significant assets, investments, or business interests, divorce can become legally complex. We handle:

• Business valuations and asset protection.
• Division of stocks, retirement accounts, and real estate.
• Tax implications of property settlements.

Our team works closely with financial experts to ensure your assets are protected.

6. Divorce Mediation and Settlement Negotiations

Litigating a divorce in court can be time-consuming and costly. Whenever possible, we encourage alternative dispute resolution, such as:

• Mediation – A neutral third party helps resolve disputes amicably.
• Collaborative Divorce – Both spouses work with attorneys to negotiate fair terms.

Our goal is to help clients achieve amicable resolutions without unnecessary stress.