Sometimes marriages in Pennsylvania do not always work out and divorce is unavoidable. However, figuring out how to go about getting a divorce and then deal with issues such as property division can understandably be confusing. An important first step in the divorce process is the actual act of filing for divorce.
The spouse who wishes to get divorced can simply file a legal document called a divorce petition in court. This document essentially tells the court that the spouse wishes to put an end to the marriage. When this petition is legally served on the other spouse, this other party will know that the process of getting divorced has started.
In the divorce petition is essential information such as why the couple is getting divorced. The spouse who initiated the process can also use the document to identify the couple’s children. In addition, the document can be used to explain how this spouse would like certain matters handled, such as asset distribution.
In addition to detailing how property division should ideally be handled, the spouse seeking divorce can also request the court to approve certain temporary orders that will remain effect until the finalizing of the divorce. These orders may deal with issues such as spousal support, child support, child visitation and which party will get to keep residing in the marital home. Other matters that may be addressed through temporary orders is how bills will end up being paid between the spouses. An attorney in Pennsylvania can offer the guidance needed to make sure that one’s desires and best interests are considered during the divorce petition filing process and thereafter.
Source: findlaw.com, “Filing and Serving the Divorce/Dissolution Petition“, Accessed on Sept. 19, 2017