Most divorces in Pennsylvania are "no-fault" divorces. This means that you do not have to prove that your spouse is "at fault" to demonstrate grounds for divorce. Instead, you can pursue a divorce on "no-fault" grounds. There are two types of no-fault grounds for divorce:

• Mutual consent divorce. In a mutual consent divorce, one party files a divorce complaint and serves the other side. After a 90-day minimum mandatory waiting period, if both parties sign an “Affidavit of Consent” which states that they consent to the divorce, then grounds for a divorce can be established.
  
  
• If one party does not consent to the divorce, the parties must be separated for one year. Once the parties have been separated for one year, if one party signs an "Affidavit of One Year Separation" which the other party does not contest, then grounds for a divorce can be established.
  
  
• If there are economic such as equitable distribution and/or alimony those clams need to be resolved prior to entry of the Decree in Divorce.

Equitable Distribution of Property: In a divorce, all property acquired during a marriage is divided between the parties (unless there was a valid prenuptial agreement). Equitable distribution does not necessarily mean that property is divided equally. To determine how assets are divided, the court looks at a variety of factors.

Alimony: In Pennsylvania, claims for alimony are decided at the same time as the equitable distribution. Property division and the payment of alimony are closely related. To determine if alimony is awarded, the court looks at a variety of factors in conjunction with the equitable distribution award.

There are two (2) types of custody. Legal custody which is the right to make all major decisions regarding the child(ren) and Physical Custody, where the child(ren) will reside along with a custody schedule in the best interest of the child(ren). I believe child custody is the most important work I do, and I take the utmost care in helping my clients find the best possible way to resolve their custody matters. Court and out-of-court options will be reviewed and discussed, with the goal of resolving custody out of court. I that is not possible litigating the issues which may include utilizing expert witnesses.

Many people prefer to use these methods to efficiently handle their cases and reduce acrimony and costs. Mediation is a collaborative processes through which you can resolve your divorce and custody related issues without having to go through the court system. I am certified to act as a mediator and also participate along with my client in "attorney assisted" mediation. Attorney assisted mediation is a process wherein both parties have counsel, a mediator is retained to assist counsel and the parties in the negotiation of an overall agreement without litigation. The parties participate and are advised of their legal rights by their own counsel through the mediation process, guided by the mediator who does not represent the interest of either party.

There are may advantages to mediation. It allows divorcing spouses to be in control of the process and the outcome. Out-of-court settlements can also save time, money and prevent further damage to relationships.