Frequently Asked Questions
Need answers right away? Our FAQ page covers everything you need to know about our divorce services — from fees and timelines to the steps involved.
Get quick, clear answers to your most pressing questions, and find out how we make the divorce process smooth and stress-free.
Are there any hidden fees?
No. The total cost, including court fees, is $595. This is a full-service divorce with no hidden fees. As long as both parties cooperate, you won’t pay anything more.
What could cause additional fees?
- Your spouse doesn’t sign for or, if someone else in the residence, signs for the certified mail.
- Your spouse does not pick up their certified mail.
- Your spouse refuses to sign the required documents.
- Your spouse hires a lawyer, files objections with the court or raises economic issues. I will almost always withdraw the case from Cameron County. You will then need to seek local counsel in the county where the case is refiled.
* Note: These are only common reasons, not the only ones.
What’s the difference between an uncontested divorce and a contested divorce?
In Pennsylvania, an uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all terms, including property division, child custody, and support, allowing the divorce to proceed smoothly without a trial. This type of divorce is typically quicker and less costly.
A contested divorce, on the other hand, happens when spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues, requiring court intervention to resolve disputes. This process often involves legal battles, is more time-consuming, and can be significantly more expensive due to the need for court hearings and potential trials.
What if my spouse contests the divorce?
If your spouse contests the divorce, I’ll communicate with their attorney to try and reach an agreement and keep the case in the original county. However, this will incur additional fees.
If the case is challenged due to the county of filing, you will need to seek local counsel, and I won’t be able to continue representing you. My services are strictly for uncontested cases, so it’s important that both parties are in full agreement from the start.
What if my spouse refuses to sign?
Full cooperation is essential. If they refuse, the case is on hold until they agree, or you can move the case to your county.
Does my spouse need to sign anything?
Yes, your spouse must sign for their certified mail or an “Acceptance of Service” form to confirm they were served with the complaint.
Mutual Consent Divorce: Both parties must sign documents after the 90-day waiting period to finalize the divorce.
Separation Divorce: Your spouse needs to sign a “Waiver of Notice” or “Waiver of Venue” form to ensure a speedy process.
Option Without Spouse’s Signature: It’s possible to get a divorce in Pennsylvania without your spouse signing, but it must be done in the county where you or your spouse reside. Contact me to discuss if this option is available for your situation.
Can we file for divorce while living together?
Yes. Couples can be “separated” while living under the same roof. Separation is legally recognized by intent and actions, not just physical distance.
What if my spouse is in prison? Can I still get a divorce?
Yes, you can still get a divorce if your spouse is in prison, as long as they’re willing to sign the required documents. However, they may not be permitted to sign for certified mail by the prison authorities, so I’ll include a document they need to sign and return.
If they cooperate, the process continues as normal. If not, additional fees may apply for personal service by a constable or another authorized person to serve the papers in prison.
How long does a divorce usually take?
Separation Divorce: Usually 60-90 days with full cooperation.
Mutual Consent Divorce: Typically 5-6 months partially due to a mandatory 90-day waiting period.
Do I need to live in Pennsylvania?
Maybe. Either you or your spouse must live in Pennsylvania. If your spouse lives in PA, you can live anywhere. If you’ve moved out of PA within the last six months, you can still file. [Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Annotated; Title 23, Section 3104]
Does the divorce need to be filed in my county?
No. Pennsylvania law allows filing in any county. We file in Cameron County due to lower court fees and efficient processing.
Can I change last name?
Yes! After the divorce, I can file for a name change to go back to your maiden or a previously used name for an additional fee. For more information on how, visit our Name Change Request page.
Can you represent both my spouse and I?
No. I can only represent one party. I can prepare documents for both, but I cannot advise your spouse.
Will my divorce be in the newspapers?
No. Cameron County doesn’t publish divorce filings in newspapers, but it is publicly available in their court records.
Can I date while waiting for the divorce?
Legally, yes, but it might complicate things. Spouses may become uncooperative if they learn you’re dating, potentially delaying the process.
Can I plan to remarry before the divorce is final?
Not recommended. Wait until you have the divorce decree in hand. Delays could arise, especially if the other spouse is upset.
How soon after divorce can I remarry?
Immediately! Once you have the divorce decree, you’re free to remarry.