Washington County, PA Divorce Attorneys
Whether it goes smoothly or is an overwhelming experience, your divorce is a life-changing event. The process is different for everyone, as everyone has unique circumstances. A legal split with your spouse can impact all aspects of your life -- finances, living arrangements, time you spend with your children, and possibly your entire future.
That's why getting divorced shouldn't be taken lightly. If you're considering divorce, or suspect your spouse is, you need to be ready. You can file for divorce without an attorney, but if you don't take every detail into consideration, you may find yourself without legal recourse if problems arise down the road. The divorce attorneys at DeRiso Law Group have the skill to examine your situation and work to help you arrive at the best possible outcome. Contact us with any questions you might have.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce
Many Washington County, PA residents have questions about divorce, even before consulting a lawyer. We've put together a list of the most common.
- Can I get a legal separation before divorcing? Pennsylvania doesn't recognize legal separation. However, you should note the date of your informal separation for the purpose of filing your divorce papers. This date can be the day you file, the day a spouse moved out, or when an event or conversation occurred, leading to divorce.
- Can my spouse and I use the same attorney to save money? A lawyer cannot represent both parties, as it is a conflict of interest. An attorney can only provide advice to one party.
- How long does a divorce take? The truth is, it depends. A friendly divorce without complications can finish within five months. However, a contested divorce can take two years or longer.
- What are the residency requirements? To get divorced in PA, either spouse must be a resident for at least six months before filing.
- Is Pennsylvania a "no-fault" divorce state? Yes. In fact, the courts advise filing for no-fault, unless there are extenuating circumstances. You may file "no-fault" when both parties mutually consent or there has been a separation period of two years.
- Can I get alimony? PA courts award alimony, but on a case-by-case basis, according to various factors.
- How is child custody decided? Courts always decide child custody based on the best interests of the child. Again, every family situation is different, and a decision is based on a variety of factors. There is no standard formula for determining child custody.
Contact us today for more detailed answers to these questions and more.
Washington County, PA Divorce Attorneys Can Help
Going through a divorce can be a complex and time-consuming process. Look to the experienced lawyers at DeRiso Law Group to walk you through it. Call our office at (412) 452-9712 or contact us online. We offer flexible scheduling and an initial consultation.
