How Do You File for Divorce in Pennsylvania If You Have Kids and a House?

A question we often hear is: “I want to file for divorce in Pennsylvania, and we have children and a home. What does the process look like, what are the rules for custody, and how is the house divided?”

Divorce Basics in Pennsylvania

• Residency requirement

  • One spouse must have lived in Pennsylvania for at least six months before filing.

• Grounds

  • Pennsylvania allows both no-fault and fault-based divorce.

• Where to file

  • Divorce is filed in the Court of Common Pleas, in counties across the state, from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh to Harrisburg.

• Process overview

  • Petition → service → disclosures → custody/property negotiations → mediation or trial → final decree.

Do You Need a Lawyer to Get a Divorce in Pennsylvania?

• Not required, but valuable for cases with kids and property.

• How a lawyer/mediator helps

  • Drafting fair custody agreements.

  • Handling valuation of homes and other assets.

  • Advising on spousal support and child support guidelines.

  • Ensuring fairness in disclosure and division.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Divorce in Pennsylvania?

• Court filing and service fees.

• Attorney or mediator fees.

• Costs for appraisals, financial experts, and possibly GAL appointments in contested custody cases.

What About the House & Property Division for Divorce in Pennsylvania?

• Pennsylvania is an equitable distribution state.

• Factors considered:

  • Contributions of each spouse.

  • Duration of the marriage.

  • Custodial arrangements and needs of children.

  • Income, debts, and retirement savings of each spouse.

• Homes may be sold, bought out, or awarded to one spouse with offsets.

Custody, Parenting Time & Child Support for Divorce in Pennsylvania

• Custody based on the best interests of the child.

• Physical and legal custody can be shared or sole.

• Parenting plans or visitation schedules are approved by the court.

• Child support follows PA’s guidelines, based on income and children’s needs.

Things You Must Know About Getting Divorced in Pennsylvania!

• The date of separation can impact property division and support calculations.

• Temporary living arrangements in the home can influence final orders.

• Maintenance and support can be adjusted as circumstances change.

• Custody and child support orders are modifiable with substantial changes.

• Full financial disclosure is critical for fairness.

A Gentle Reminder About Divorce in Pennsylvania

This post is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Divorce laws and practices vary across Pennsylvania, from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh to Harrisburg.

At Fresh Starts, you can search our Expert Guide by state to find Pennsylvania-based attorneys, mediators, custody experts, and financial advisors to guide you through.