PA

How to File for Divorce in Pennsylvania Without a Lawyer

Complete step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Pennsylvania without an attorney. Save thousands in legal fees.

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Pennsylvania Without a Lawyer

Pennsylvania requires 6 months residency and offers no-fault divorce with mutual consent after 90-day wait. The state uses equitable distribution and has relatively straightforward procedures for agreed divorces.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Pennsylvania?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

  • Both consent after 90 days
  • Agreement on property division
  • No custody disputes
  • Limited assets
  • Both cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

  • Fault grounds contested
  • Complex property (businesses)
  • Retirement assets
  • Custody disputes
  • Spouse doesn't consent

Find Pennsylvania Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Pennsylvania

Step 1

Verify 6-Month Residency

One spouse must have lived in PA for 6 months.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A
💡 Tips:
  • PA driver's license
  • Property ownership
Step 2

File Complaint for Divorce

File complaint citing mutual consent (3301(c)) or irretrievable breakdown.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Filing fee: $300-350
  • Use county court forms
Step 3

Serve Spouse

Serve complaint via sheriff or mail.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks
💡 Tips:
  • Can mail if spouse accepts
  • Keep proof of service
Step 4

Wait 90 Days (Mutual Consent)

90-day waiting period for no-fault mutual consent divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 90 days
💡 Tips:
  • Both must affirmatively consent
  • File affidavit of consent
Step 5

Exchange Financial Info

Complete income and expense statements.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Required even if agreed
  • Must be accurate
Step 6

Submit Property Settlement

File marital settlement agreement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Address all property and debts
  • Both sign before notary
Step 7

Request Final Decree

Submit praecipe for final decree.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 hour
💡 Tips:
  • May not require hearing
  • Court reviews agreement
Step 8

Receive Decree

Court issues final decree of divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-6 weeks
💡 Tips:
  • Get certified copies

Required Forms for Pennsylvania Divorce

Complaint for Divorce (Varies by county)

Required

Marital Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Praecipe for Final Decree (Varies)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Pennsylvania DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$350-450
  • Filing fee: $300-350
  • Service fee: $50-100
  • Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$4,000-20,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Pennsylvania Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1

Filing before 90-day period if using mutual consent

2

Incomplete financial statements

3

Not getting spouse's consent in writing

Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania DIY Divorce

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Pennsylvania?

Yes, PA has relatively straightforward procedures for no-fault mutual consent divorces. Many counties provide self-help resources.

What is mutual consent divorce in Pennsylvania?

Mutual consent allows divorce after 90 days if both spouses affirmatively consent in writing. This is the fastest no-fault option in PA.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Pennsylvania, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Pennsylvania Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer