Pennsylvania Divorce Information


Property Ownership For Divorce Purposes

Equitable distribution state, which means the court has the authority to divide marital property in any manner which is "equitable" or "just," and not necessarily 50/50. Marital fault is not a consideration when dividing property in Pennsylvania.

What Property is Divided?

Separate property state. Only marital property is divided in a divorce. Separate property is generally 1) Property acquired before the marriage, 2) Property acquired by gift, 3) Property acquired by inheritance. Appreciation of separate property is considered marital property.

Alimony

At the court's discretion. Marital fault is generally not considered. Alimony terminates upon the death of either party, and upon the receiving party's remarriage or cohabitation with a member of the opposite sex. Alimony amounts are determined using guidelines set by the state.

Child Support

Income shares method, which means the income of both parents is considered. Emancipation is age, though the courts can extend it. Courts can order payment of college education costs. Child Support Calculator.

Child Support Enforcement

The Pennsylvania child support enforcement agency can be found at:

http://www.humanservices.state.pa.us/csws

Divorce Related Statutes For Pennsylvania

http://members.aol.com/StatutesPA/23.html

Other Resources

The Divorce Financial Survival Series