How to File for Divorce in Pennsylvania
Complete guide to Pennsylvania divorce process, forms, and requirements for 2025
Steps to File for Divorce in Pennsylvania
1
Meet Residency Requirements
One spouse must have been a Pennsylvania resident for at least 6 months before filing.
2
File the Complaint
File a Complaint in Divorce with the Court of Common Pleas. PA allows no-fault (mutual consent or 1-year separation) or fault-based grounds.
3
Serve Your Spouse
Your spouse must be served with the complaint. They have 20 days to respond.
4
File Affidavits
After 90 days (mutual consent), file affidavits of consent. Or prove 1-year separation.
5
Complete Economic Claims
Resolve property division, alimony, and other economic matters.
6
Obtain Divorce Decree
After all requirements met, receive your Divorce Decree from the court.
Pennsylvania Divorce Requirements
Residency Requirement
6 Months
One spouse must have been a Pennsylvania resident for at least 6 months.
Waiting Period
90 Days or 1 Year
90 days for mutual consent, or prove 1-year separation for unilateral no-fault.
Filing Fees
$300+
Filing fees vary by county. Generally $300-400. Fee waivers available.
Required Pennsylvania Divorce Forms
Complaint in Divorce
Primary form to initiate divorce
Notice to Defend
Information for defendant
Affidavit of Consent
For mutual consent divorce
Inventory/Appraisement
Property disclosure
Divorce Decree
Final divorce judgment
Types of No-Fault Divorce in Pennsylvania
Mutual Consent (3301c)
- Both spouses agree
- 90-day waiting period
- Both sign affidavits
- Faster process
- Lower costs
- Most common method
Separation (3301d)
- One spouse can file
- 1-year separation required
- No consent needed
- Longer timeline
- May be contested
- For uncooperative spouse
Important Things to Know
Pennsylvania offers two no-fault options: mutual consent (90-day wait) or 1-year separation. Economic claims (property, alimony) must be raised before the divorce is finalized.
Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations
- Pennsylvania is an equitable distribution state
- 90-day wait for mutual consent divorce
- 1-year separation alternative
- 6-month residency requirement
- Economic claims must be raised before divorce
Ready to Start Your Pennsylvania Divorce?
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