Yes, since 1980, Pennsylvania has recognized no-fault divorce, meaning neither spouse is required to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce. However, PA is not a true no-fault state, meaning that casting blame on the other spouse can still have an impact on the court's custody and alimony decisions.

What's the difference between fault and no-fault?

In a no-fault divorce filing, the divorce can be categorized into two forms:

1. Mutual consent. Both parties agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken and consent to the divorce. This usually involves a 90-day waiting period after filing.
2. Irretrievable breakdown. if one spouse believes the marriage is irretrievably broken and the couple has been separated for at least one year, a no-fault divorce can proceed, even without mutual consent.

And in a fault divorce filing, one spouse is required to prove the other's misconduct, including:

• Adultery
• Physical or mental abuse
• Desertion for at least one year
• Bigamy
• Imprisonment for a significant period
• Other actions that have rendered the other spouse's life intolerable

When filing for divorce in Pennsylvania, understanding your rights and options for separation is the critical first step toward a secure future. Facing this difficult time requires clear, strategic guidance, and our firm is here to provide exactly that. We will meticulously handle every legal detail, including asset division, child support & custody, any unique issues affecting same-sex couples, and much more. We are committed to helping you navigate this transition efficiently so you can regain control and get your life back in order.