If you and your spouse agree to divorce, Pennsylvania allows you to move forward through a mutual consent process that is usually faster and less expensive than a contested case. However, you still have to go through a required 90-day waiting period. Here’s how the process works and what to expect.
How do you start an uncontested divorce in Pennsylvania?
You start the process by filing a divorce complaint and serving your spouse. This step opens your case and starts the timeline.
What is the 90-day waiting period and when does it begin?
The 90-day waiting period is a required pause before you can finalize your divorce, and it begins once you serve the complaint. During this time, the court will not grant your divorce, even if you both agree.
What happens during the 90-day waiting period?
During the 90 days, you and your spouse finalize any remaining details, such as property division, support or other agreements. You also prepare the documents you will need once the waiting period ends.
What do you need to file after the 90 days?
After the waiting period, you and your spouse each file written consent forms confirming you still agree to the divorce. You then submit the remaining paperwork to ask the court to finalize your case.
How does the court finalize the divorce?
The judge reviews your paperwork and signs the final decree. If everything is complete and correct, the court usually finalizes your divorce without a hearing.
Keep your divorce moving without unnecessary delays
The fastest path through an uncontested divorce depends on timing, complete paperwork and clear agreement between you and your spouse. Working with a family lawyer helps you avoid delays and keeps the process moving efficiently. It doesn’t have to turn into a long, drawn-out process if you handle it the right way from the start.