💔 It’s Over—Now What? How to End a Marriage Without Losing Yourself

You didn’t plan for this. No one does. Yet here you are, standing at the crossroads of what was and what comes next.

The end of a marriage can feel like a storm—painful, disorienting, and sometimes full of guilt or anger. But it can also be a turning point—a chance to rebuild your life with strength, clarity, and dignity.

If your marriage is ending, this isn’t the end of you. This guide will help you understand what to expect legally and emotionally, how to protect yourself and your family, and how to move forward with peace of mind.

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Step 1: Acknowledge What’s Ending — and What Isn’t

Divorce doesn’t erase the love that once existed. It’s okay to grieve what you thought would last forever. But it’s also okay to let go of what’s no longer healthy for you—or for your children.

Starting from a place of respect, even if the relationship has changed, helps everyone involved—especially if you’re co-parenting. Fighting to “win” the divorce often ends up costing far more—emotionally and financially—than working together for a fair resolution.

Most divorces don’t go to trial. Only a small percentage ever appear before a judge. The rest are settled through negotiation or mediation—where you still have control over the outcome.

You don’t have to fight to move forward. Sometimes, you simply have to choose peace.

Step 2: Define What You Want for Your Next Chapter

When emotions run high, decisions can become reactive. Take a moment to breathe and write down what truly matters to you.

• What do I want my life to look like after this divorce?
• What is best for my children emotionally and practically?
• What assets or property are most important to protect?
• What am I willing to compromise on to reach peace faster?

The Marital Home

If children are involved, courts often favor the parent with primary physical custody remaining in the marital home to minimize disruption. This is called exclusive possession—one spouse remains while the other moves out.

Before making that decision, consider finances carefully. Can you afford to maintain the home? Would moving create a fresh start or new stress? These are personal choices, but they carry long-term consequences.

Pets, Assets, and Debts

Pets are family—but legally, they’re often considered property. If you can agree on a plan for them outside of court, do it.

You’ll also need a clear list of marital assets (things you acquired during the marriage) and debts (mortgages, loans, credit cards, etc.). Gather bank statements, car titles, and financial records early. The more organized you are, the smoother your path forward.

Step 3: Choose Peace Over Battle

A contested divorce—where every issue is fought in court—can take more than a year to resolve. An uncontested divorce—where both parties agree—can often be finalized in as little as 4–5 months.

Choosing collaboration or mediation doesn’t mean giving in; it means protecting your time, your energy, and your children. The court system is there if you need it, but your power lies in communication and preparation.

When you negotiate with clarity and compassion, you control the outcome—not the courtroom.

Step 4: Focus on the Kids, Not the Conflict

Children don’t just watch a divorce happen—they live it. Even if you and your spouse are no longer partners, you’ll always be co-parents.

Courts base custody decisions on the child’s best interests, not parental blame. Factors often include:

• Each parent’s ability to provide stability
• Emotional and physical health of both parents
• The child’s relationship with each parent
• School, home, and community continuity

Whenever possible, keep your child’s life consistent. Their world is already shifting—let your love be the constant.

Step 5: Protect Yourself Emotionally and Financially

Emotionally:

• Allow yourself to grieve. It’s okay to feel everything.
• Surround yourself with support—friends, family, therapy, or faith.
• Avoid making major decisions from a place of anger or fear.

Financially:

• Make a post-divorce budget.
• Track your income, expenses, and shared accounts.
• Keep records of payments, transfers, and communications.
• Don’t drain savings or max out credit cards in frustration—it only makes rebuilding harder.

Step 6: Get the Right Legal Guidance

Even when you and your spouse agree on most things, divorce law is complex. A lawyer can help you:

• Protect your financial and parental rights
• Prepare and file accurate paperwork
• Understand your options for negotiation or mediation
• Avoid costly legal missteps

Having an experienced advocate means you can focus on healing instead of paperwork.

Step 7: Reclaim Your Future

Divorce may close a chapter—but it also clears space for something new. You’re allowed to imagine a life where you feel safe, respected, and at peace.

This process can be hard, but it doesn’t have to define you. It can refine you.

The end of your marriage isn’t the end of your story—it’s the start of your comeback.
Take your time. Protect your peace. And remember: you are not broken; you are becoming.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a divorce take?

An uncontested divorce may take as little as four to five months, while contested divorces can take a year or more, depending on complexity and court schedules.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced?

While it’s legally possible to represent yourself, having an attorney helps protect your rights, ensures accurate filings, and can save time and stress in the long run.

What if we can’t agree on custody or property?

If you and your spouse can’t reach agreement, a judge will make decisions based on your state’s laws—especially focusing on the child’s best interests and fair distribution of property.

What’s the first step to starting a divorce?

Gather your financial documents, consider your housing and custody goals, and schedule a consultation with a family law attorney to understand your options before filing.

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Final Thoughts

Your marriage may be ending, but your life isn’t. This can be the moment you reclaim your voice, your peace, and your future. With clarity and the right guidance, you can navigate this transition with confidence and grace.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified attorney.

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Ready to Take the Next Step?

You don’t have to face this alone. The Skeen Firm is here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and compassion. Schedule your confidential consultation today and start building the next chapter of your life.

📅 Schedule a Consultation

or call (724) 250-8841

New Tool: Estimate Your Washington County Divorce Filing Fees Instantly

Understanding divorce costs shouldn’t be complicated. That’s why The Skeen Firm Flat Fee Family Law Program created a new Washington County Divorce Filing Fee Calculator, a free online tool that helps you estimate your filing costs using the official county fee schedule.

Plan Ahead with Confidence

Divorce in Pennsylvania often starts with uncertainty, especially when it comes to costs. Filing fees vary by county and by the number of counts included, such as alimony, custody, or equitable distribution. Our calculator uses the official Washington County Prothonotary fee schedule to show your estimated total in seconds.

No need to sort through county PDFs or outdated online charts. You simply select how many counts apply to your case and whether custody is included, and the calculator instantly shows your estimated total filing fee.

Part of Our Flat-Fee Family Law Commitment

This new tool builds on our Flat Fee Family Law Program, which gives Pennsylvania families clear, predictable pricing for divorce and custody matters. We believe you deserve transparent legal costs from your attorney and from the court system.

With flat fees for legal services and upfront knowledge of filing costs, you can make confident financial decisions without surprises along the way.

Why This Matters for Washington County Residents

• Accurate data — based on the 2025 Washington County fee schedule.
• Quick results — calculate divorce filing costs in seconds.
• Local insight — tailored for residents filing in Washington County, PA.

Whether you’re filing for divorce on your own or working with our team, this calculator helps you prepare for the process and understand what to expect.

More County Guides Coming Soon

This new Washington County tool is just the beginning. The Skeen Firm is developing a full library of local divorce and family law guides for Pennsylvania counties including Beaver, Butler, and Allegheny — along with a comprehensive West Virginia Divorce and Family Law Guide coming soon.

Each guide will feature county-specific filing information, cost breakdowns, and process overviews to help families and small business owners navigate divorce efficiently and confidently.

Get Started Today

Try the new calculator today and see how easy it is to understand your filing costs before you start your case.

Use the Washington County Divorce Fee Calculator

Or learn more about how we simplify family law with flat fee representation for clients throughout Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

No Fear of the Clock: Flat Fee Family Law in Pennsylvania

For many families across Pennsylvania, legal representation can feel like a race against the clock. Every minute with your lawyer can mean another bill. This pressure often makes clients hesitate to reach out, even when communication is crucial.

At The Skeen Firm, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between getting answers and staying within your budget. That’s why our flat-fee family law services are designed to remove the stress of hourly billing and build stronger attorney-client communication.

Why Hourly Billing Creates Barriers

In traditional hourly models, every email or phone call adds to your balance. That makes clients cautious, sometimes even silent, at the exact moment they need legal guidance most—during custody disputes, divorce filings, or support negotiations.

How Flat Fees Change Everything

With flat fees, you’ll know your total legal cost upfront. The result?

• More openness: You can talk freely without worrying about time.
• Faster advice: You get answers before issues escalate.
• Better focus: You and your attorney can concentrate on outcomes, not billing clocks.
• Collaborative strategy: You and your lawyer work as a team—not as a meter running.

Why This Matters in Pennsylvania

Family law in PA often varies by county—what works in Washington County might differ in Allegheny or Beaver. Having an attorney who communicates consistently can make all the difference. Our flat-fee model gives clients confidence to ask questions and stay involved from start to finish.

At The Skeen Firm, we want you to feel heard, informed, and supported—without worrying about every six-minute billing increment.

📅 Book Your Discovery Call

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship. 

How Are Assets Divided During Divorce in Pennsylvania?

Divorce can bring many challenges, and one of the most complex is dividing financial assets. If you’re going through a divorce in Pennsylvania, understanding how the courts handle asset division is critical. Below, we explain what “equitable distribution” means, what property counts, what factors the courts look at, and how you can prepare.

What Is Equitable Distribution?

In Pennsylvania, divorcing couples follow the equitable distribution standard—rather than automatically splitting everything 50/50. That doesn’t necessarily mean equal in every case, but fair, considering the circumstances of the marriage.

What Property Is Divided?

“Marital property” is the pool from which assets are divided, and includes:

• Property acquired during the marriage
• The increase in value of property owned before marriage, if tied to marital contributions
• Pensions, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and insurance benefits obtained while married

Not included: property owned before the marriage (if kept separate), inheritances, and individual gifts.

How Courts Determine the Division

Once a divorce is filed, either spouse may ask the court to divide marital assets. The court values and divides property in a way that is equitable under the law. Factors include:

• Length of the marriage
• Age, health, income, and liabilities of each spouse
• Prior marriages
• Contributions toward the other spouse’s education or earning ability
• Retirement benefits, insurance, or medical coverage
• Value and use of marital property
• Standard of living established during the marriage
• Economic circumstances at the time of division
• Tax implications of dividing assets
• Costs of liquidating or transferring property
• Custodial responsibilities for children

What “50/50” Really Means

While many assume property is split evenly, equitable distribution means division could be 50/50—or something different depending on fairness. For example, one spouse might receive the marital home, while the other gets a mix of assets of similar value. The court considers debt, income differences, and future needs.

What Doesn’t Matter

Some issues do not affect property division in Pennsylvania, including:

• Marital misconduct such as infidelity
• Other personal wrongdoing, unless it directly affects finances

How to Prepare

• Document assets, inheritances, and accounts
• Get appraisals for real estate, retirement, or business interests
• Understand marital debts and liabilities
• Review tax consequences of dividing assets
• Work with an experienced Pennsylvania family law attorney

Final Thoughts

Dividing property in a Pennsylvania divorce is about fairness, not just formulas. Knowing the rules and preparing can protect your financial future. If you’re facing divorce, consult with a family law attorney to understand how Pennsylvania law applies to your case.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship. 

How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Pennsylvania and West Virginia?

If you're considering a divorce in Pennsylvania or West Virginia, one of your biggest concerns is probably cost. The financial side of ending a marriage can feel overwhelming—especially when you're trying to plan for legal fees, filing costs, and life after divorce.

At The Skeen Firm, we specialize in flat fee family law services because we believe your legal costs should be clear from the beginning. But if you're exploring your options, here's what you should know about the average cost of a divorce in PA and WV—and how to budget for the process.

Average Cost of a Divorce in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, divorce costs vary widely depending on whether your divorce is contested (disagreements over custody, assets, or support) or uncontested (both parties agree on the terms).

• Hourly Rate: $250–$400 per hour

• Retainer Fee: $3,000–$7,500 upfront

• Total Cost (Contested Divorce): $10,000–$20,000+

• Total Cost (Uncontested Divorce): $1,500–$5,000

Keep in mind that contested divorces involving complex assets, custody battles, or alimony disputes will significantly drive up the cost.

Average Cost of a Divorce in West Virginia

West Virginia tends to have slightly lower average fees compared to Pennsylvania, but legal costs still add up quickly:

• Hourly Rate: $200–$350 per hour

• Retainer Fee: $2,000–$5,000

• Total Cost (Contested Divorce): $7,000–$15,000+

• Total Cost (Uncontested Divorce): $1,000–$3,500

Filing fees in WV are typically around $135–$200 depending on the county, and additional costs may apply for parenting classes or mediation.

What Factors Affect Divorce Lawyer Costs?

Several variables influence how much you’ll pay in legal fees:

• Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested

• If children and custody are involved

• The complexity of your marital property

• The attorney’s experience and location

• Court appearances and duration of the case

How Flat Fee Divorce Can Save You Thousands

Unlike traditional firms that bill hourly, The Skeen Firm offers flat fee divorce services in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. That means you pay one predictable rate, no matter how many phone calls, emails, or court filings are required.

Benefits of Flat Fee Divorce:

• No surprise bills

• Budget certainty from the start

• Focused strategy without billing pressure

• More value for your money

We offer transparent pricing for:

• Uncontested divorces

• Child custody agreements

• Support modifications

• Property division

Considering Divorce? Let’s Talk.

Don’t get stuck worrying about hourly rates. Book a free consultation with The Skeen Firm today and learn how our flat fee family law services can help you move forward—without breaking the bank.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

What Does Supervised Visitation Mean?

Within child custody matters, sometimes a court will require visitation as a term of granting supervision to a parent or guardian. There are different types of visitation but one that is possible in Pennsylvania courts is supervised visitation.  

Supervised visitation is basically how it sounds; visitation that is supervised. Courts typically issue a custody order requiring supervised visitation in situations where the court feels the child may be endangered without the added supervision.

Though this is a fairly broad concept, courts typically lay out additional provisions to meet the supervised requirement.

Courts start by issuing a custody order in which a party may only be permitted to see the child or children under additional supervision. If this is the case, the court will state in its order grounds for meeting this requirement.

Supervised visitation may include a third party or other chaperone. The court may decide who this other person is and then require that person be present anytime the child is in the presence of that party.  Supervision may be line-of-sight and/or within hearing distance.

In other instances, both parties to the child custody agreement may unanimously decide on a person to be present during supervised visits.

In different situations and where the court sees fit, these supervised visitations may have to occur at a visitation center. A visitation center is where the party specified in the custody agreement goes to visit the child. This location then provides for a safe space for the party and the child to meet to ensure the child is completely safe.

The court wants children to have a relationship with their parents and makes every attempt to ensure this is done safely. Visitation requirements can provide for children and their parents to still have a relationship without putting the children in harm's way.

Sometimes a court may grant an order requiring supervised visitation on a temporary or interim basis.  Courts may amend the order to allow for unsupervised visitation if they feel it applies to the situation and the child will remain safe. Additionally, courts may amend orders to take away visitation or require any meetings take place at a visitation center if they feel the child would benefit from more protection.                            

What is “Child Custody?”

Child custody in the state of Pennsylvania determines who has actual custodianship over a specific child. The person (or persons) with legal custody over the child has the right to make decisions in the best interest of the child pertaining to health, education, and religious decisions.

The issue of child custody usually arises in cases of divorce in which both spouses have legal custody over the same child.

Child custody is an extremely broad term. Pennsylvania courts may grant seven categories of custody to either parent. These categories may limit the scope of custody a parent may be awarded.

These categories include:

1.)      Shared physical custody in which each parent is granted significant physical custody over the child;

2.)      Primary physical custody in which the court awards one parent physical custody over the child for the majority of the time while the other parent still has visitation rights;

3.)      Sole physical custody permits one parent to have the exclusive right to custody over the child;

4.)      Partial physical custody limits one of the parents to physical custody less than a substantial amount of the time;

5.)      Supervised physical custody grants custodial time to a parent but requires that a third party or agency be present for the visit;

6.)      Shared legal custody permits more than one person to have legal custody over the child and share in the decision-making responsibilities and duties to that child; or

7.)      Sole legal custody in which only one person has the legal and exclusive right to take care of that child.

Based on the situation between the two parents, whether it be biological parents, adoptive parents, or guardians of the child, the court will grant one of these forms of custody. Each situation is different, and the court awards custody based on what is in the best interest of the child, not the two parties involved.

Once the court awards custody to a specific party or parties, then that custody order must be followed. Failure to abide by the court's child custody order may lead to being held in contempt of court. If a party is found to be in contempt of court for violating a child custody order, they may face fines, imprisonment, probation, or other penalties.

The court takes child custody cases very seriously as children in these situations are typically too young to speak for themselves. Every situation is different and thus, the court weighs out all the applicable factors and applies them as they see fit. 

How Much Alimony Can I Expect to Receive?

There is no exact formula for calculating how much you may receive from a former spouse through alimony. In Pennsylvania, courts have the power to determine how much one is required to pay in alimony and thus how much you will receive.

Courts look at several factors to determine how much you may be entitled to. They weigh factors relevant to both you and your former spouse throughout the marriage. A perk for someone receiving the alimony payment is that the court also considers how a former spouse's future life may be affected because of the divorce. 

Additionally, courts look into how long the spouses were married, how much they brought into marriage, any marital misconduct, the established standard of living, and many other factors.

Another important factor most people associate with alimony payments is income or earning capacity. Earning capacity is not always how much a person is making but how much that person could be making considering their age, education, experience, etc.  Courts will look at someone’s earning capacity if that person is underemployed or intentionally decreasing his/her income.

When it comes down to determining exactly how much you may receive, there is no clear-cut answer. After all, the discretion is left up to the court. That said, you may be more prepared based on some of these factors that courts consider.

In an attempt to avoid being blindsided by how much alimony you may (or may not) receive, evaluating these factors may be beneficial. Collecting information on your part in preparation for litigation, will save you time later on.

Just remember that the court makes the ultimate decision regarding the amount of alimony. There is no clear-cut rule requiring simple math. Instead, it is actually much more complicated and may require more time and effort to figure out than you may be anticipating.

*Disclaimer: the advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.                                                                  

What is the Difference Between Annulment and Divorce?

Most people know what it means to get a divorce, but an annulment is not so common.  What makes them different from each other? As you may know, the result of a divorce or an annulment is that the two spouses are no longer legally married.

The biggest difference is that an annulment declares the marriage to be invalid and voided. This means that in the eyes of the law, the marriage never existed.

A divorce yields a different result. A divorce does not undo the marriage, but rather it puts a legal end to the marriage.

Now that the difference is clear, how do you know which is most applicable to you? Lucky for you, the court lays out when you may pursue an annulment. The option for divorce is the default for ending a marriage while you must meet specific criteria to qualify for an annulment.

Generally, to terminate your marriage to your spouse, you will need to file for divorce. That is, unless you qualify for an annulment.

Annulments occur when one of the spouses lacked the ability to enter the marriage.  This may happen if a person was too young at the time of marriage and lacked the court’s consent or lacked consent from a parent or guardian.

Additionally, one may qualify for an annulment if either party or both parties were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of marriage; if either party was under duress or being forced to take part in the marriage; or if either party has a mental illness in which the other party did not know about at the time of the marriage.

If a person is under the age of 18 at the time of marriage and lacked proper consent, they are only eligible for an annulment so long as they have not gone back and ratified the marriage after turning 18 years old and so long as either party has requested an annulment within 60 days of the date of marriage.

The above is similar if a party was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the marriage. They have 60 days from the date of marriage to seek an annulment. If the parties decide to split up following these 60 days, they will no longer be eligible for an annulment but they will need to file for divorce.     

*Disclaimer: the advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.                                                                  

How are Assets Divided During Divorce?

Though divorce is a different experience for most people, the courts of Pennsylvania typically stick to the method of “equitable division of marital property” upon divorce.

First, what is considered “marital property” and what is “equitable distribution?” Generally, “marital property” is any property that either spouse has obtained throughout the marriage.  It could also be property that a spouse owned before the marriage (or the increase in its value) but used for marital purposes.  For those who have been married for quite a while, this could be a great deal of property to split up. So how do the courts do it?

Pennsylvania courts generally divide marital property equally. For the most part, either spouse should receive 50% of the marital property. This also means that 50% of any marital debts will also fall on each spouse.  Although this is the general rule, the court may skew the distribution so that one spouse receives more than 50% of the marital estate.

It is also important to note that this 50/50 split does not mean that the spouses will continue to share ownership of the house or the car, but one spouse may receive the house worth $300,000 and the other spouse may get the car that is worth $40,000 along with the lake house that is worth $260,000. Each spouse now has an equal portion of the marital property.

So when does equitable distribution begin? Once a spouse has filed for divorce and the statutory separation period has ended, either spouse may request that the court divide the assets equally.  The court does this by evaluating many factors to determine proper equitable distribution. Such factors include:

1.)      How long the marriage lasted;

2.)      Any prior marriages of either party;

3.)      Age, health, income, liabilities, etc. of both parties individually;

4.)      The contribution of one party to the educational support or increasing earning power of the other party;

5.)      Any potential future acquisition either party may receive (capital assets and income);

6.)      Sources of income (this includes medical, retirement, insurance, and other benefits);

7.)      The contribution or use of marital property (weather leading to appreciation or depreciation of the marital property);

8.)      The value of the property set apart to each party;

9.)      The standard of living that was established during the marriage;

10.)                                    The economic status of each party at the time the division of the property is to become in effect (this can be measured through employment of each party, the type of job, how long either party has had that job, etc.);

11.)                                    Federal, state, and local tax implications associated with each asset;

12.)                                    The expense to sell, transfer, or liquidate any piece of property; and

13.)                                    Whether either party will be the primary custodian over any children.

You may notice that marital misconduct is not listed above.  That’s right.  The court does not consider marital misconduct—an extramarital affair or even domestic violence, when determining how to distribute the marital estate.

In simple terms, the court will determine what constitutes marital property between the two parties and then it will value that property and distribute the property in a method they find to be equitable to both spouses.  Equitable, however, may not mean equal.

*Disclaimer: the advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Benefiting Your Family - Flat Fee Family Law

By now, you know The Skeen Firm wants to handle your Family Law matter on our Flat Fee platform. We get it; no divorce is fun. Custody battles are tough. And equitable distribution is often a complex challenge. That is why we have a flat fee approach; predictability is our first method of promoting stability.

But from a traditional legal approach to running a firm with a family law practice, pricing through a flat fee makes no sense. Trust us, if we had a dollar for every time we’ve heard it won’t work, we would retire. But, to us, that is where the magic begins—a flat fee, regardless of the practice area, forces efficiency in how your lawyer works. The incentive is working efficiently to find a solution as quickly as possible, benefiting you, the client, the most. We consider that a win.

The quest for efficiency also forces us to implement and use systems and processes. While some will say that the law is no place to function like McDonald's, we say it exactly is. The law practice, just like operating a McDonald’s, is all about customer service. Most would agree McDonald’s isn’t gourmet, but they can’t deny that you can get the same meal in Washington, PA, as in Kalamazoo, MI. That is the definition of process and system-driven customer service. Why should the law be any different?

That is right, it shouldn’t. Customer service and experience are precisely why we focus on our processes and systems. Realizing that arriving at a solution in the most stress-free manner possible is the highest aspiration of our clients mandates a process and system-driven firm. Automating where we can—think of documents and other high-time-consuming or billable activities—allows us to focus more on client communication in a proactive way.

This communication forward approach starts at our discovery call, where we listen to your goals without offering any advice. From there, our intake process collects all the information needed to move your case forward as efficiently as possible. At your consultation, we can tell you more about what to expect and your fees and give you a strategy to achieve your goals. This is possible only if we get as much information as possible from the intake form. After we are engaged, you can expect regular updates on the progress made toward the strategy discussed in your consultation. What is the point of all of this? Alleviating as much stress as possible from a high-pressure, high-emotion environment. We built our system so we can work our system for you and let you live your life.

So while the flat fee is the headline maker, the system and process do the heavy lifting. With them, we can focus on resolving your case efficiently instead of traditional money makers for law firms, such as document drafting and reactive communications. Both only add stress to an already stressful situation. We are always here and ready to do what we do to help you in a system-driven, flat-fee, stress-reducing way.

*Disclaimer: the advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Navigating Divorce in Washington County, Pennsylvania: Your Comprehensive Guide

Divorce is a life-altering event that can be emotionally and financially challenging.  If you find yourself going through a divorce in Washington County, PA (or anywhere, for that matter), then it is crucial for you to understand your rights and the legal process.  In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the key aspects of a divorce in Washington County, provide useful insights, and offer guidance to help you navigate this difficult time.

Understanding the Grounds for Divorce:  In Washington County, PA, there are both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce.  No-fault divorce is the most common.  An uncontested no-fault divorce may be granted after a ninety-day separation, but a contested no-fault divorce requires the spouses to live separately and apart for at least one year.  Fault grounds, such as adultery, abandonment, cruelty, or imprisonment, may lead to a faster divorce process.

The Residency Requirement:  To file for divorce in Washington County, PA, either spouse must have been a state resident for at least six months.  Establishing residency is essential to ensure the court’s jurisdiction over your case.

Property and Asset Division:  Washington County, PA, follows the equitable distribution approach to the division of property and assets acquired during the marriage.  Equitable doesn’t always mean equal; the court considers various factors, such as each spouse’s contributions, age, health, and economic circumstances when dividing marital property and assets.

Spousal Support and Alimony:  During the divorce process, the court may award spousal support or temporary alimony (known as alimony pendente lite) to the financially disadvantaged spouse.  The Court considers the length of the marriage, along with each spouse’s earning capacity and individual needs, along with other factors, when deciding an award of alimony.

Child Custody and Support:  Child custody and support matters are among the most significant concerns for divorcing parents.  Courts in Washington County, PA, prioritize the best interests of the child(ren) when determining custody arrangements.  Child support obligations are determined by a statutory formula, unless the facts warrant a deviation from the standard amount of support.

Legal Representation:  While it is possible to handle an uncontested divorce without an attorney, it is highly recommended to seek legal representation, especially if you have complex financial matters, child custody disputes, or disagreements with your spouse on critical issues.  An experienced divorce attorney can protect your rights and guide you through the process.

Alternative Dispute Resolution:  Couples who are divorcing in Washington County, PA, are encouraged to explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or collaborative divorce.  These approaches provide a more amicable and cost-effective way to resolve differences, particularly regarding child custody and division of assets.

Divorces in Washington County, PA, involve various legal complexities, from grounds for divorce to property division and child custody matters.  By understanding the process and seeking legal guidance, you can protect your rights and ensure a smoother transition into the next chapter of your life.  Remember, every divorce is unique, so it’s essential to consult an experienced family law attorney who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

Going through a separation and divorce can be very difficult, so having a knowledgeable legal team on your side can provide the support and guidance you need.  At The Skeen Firm, our experienced divorce attorneys want to help you navigate the complexities of divorce in Washington County, PA.  

 *Disclaimer: this article is for informational purposes only. It is not providing legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Alimony, Spousal and Child Support…Oh, My!

The end of a marriage is a difficult time for anyone, and the financial consequences of untangling two lives can make it even worse.  Although each is unique, alimony, spousal support and child support are all similar in the sense that one spouse is making a payment for the benefit of someone else (the other spouse or the parties’ children). 

In Pennsylvania, there are three types of spousal support/alimony, spousal support, alimony pendente lite and alimony.  Depending on what stage of the divorce process you’re currently in will determine what type of support you may have a right to receive.  (For more information click here.) When two people marry each other, they generally combine finances, enjoying a standard of life neither could achieve without the other.  Even if both parties work fulltime, it is likely one spouse is a “dependent spouse,” meaning one spouse earns less than the other.  The dependent spouse may receive spousal support or alimony pendente lite.  As part of dividing the marital estate, a court may order one spouse to pay the dependent spouse alimony.  Keep in mind that alimony is not guaranteed, as it is a secondary remedy for the Court to use if it is unable to equitably divide the marital estate.  Think liquid assets versus non-liquid assets (i.e., something that can be sold for cash versus a retirement account that would incur a substantial penalty for an early withdrawal before a certain age).

Child support, on the other hand, is support for the benefit of minor children.  The purpose of child support is to help ensure the children enjoy a standard of life like what they enjoyed before their parents’ separating or divorcing.  If you, your children, and the other parent of your children do not live under the same roof, one parent may owe child support to the other.  

The Domestic Relations section of your county’s Court of Common Pleas handles child support claims.  When one parent files for child support, both parents provide income and expense information.  The hearing officer then determines the adjusted net income of each parent and then uses those figures to calculate child support, applying statutory guidelines.  We’ll take a closer look at the breakdown of the calculation in our next article.  

There are two sides to each type of support: the spouse who is having to pay the support and the spouse who is relying on the support to make ends meet.  Neither position is ideal.  If you find yourself in a situation where you want to be sure the support calculations for your case are correct, give us a call.  We’d love the opportunity to discuss the specifics of your case with you.

*Disclaimer: this article is for informational purposes only. It is not providing legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.

So your marriage is coming to an end. Now what? Part II

You’ve gotten over the initial shock of realizing that your marriage is over.  Now what?  Well, now you have some tough decisions to make starting with what do you want out of the divorce.  Some preliminary matters to work though include who stays in the house, who gets physical custody of the children, who gets possession of the family pet, and how will the assets/debts be divided.

Residing in the marital home to the exclusion of your spouse is known as exclusive possession.  If there are children involved, the spouse having primary physical custody generally resides in the house to minimize the displacement of the children.

If the parties cannot agree on physical custody, the court will look at 16 factors to ultimately decide what is in the best interests of the children.  Most courts believe it’s important for children to spend equal time (or as close to equal time as possible) with each parent.  You’ll want to keep that in mind if you choose to move out and get a place of your own.  The farther you live from your spouse, the harder it is to make joint custody work and the harder it is on your children.

If you’re like me, your family pet is more than a pet, he’s a four-legged family member.  Unfortunately, the law doesn’t give him the same love you do.  Pets are considered marital property.  If the parties can’t agree, the court will decide who gets the pet in equitable distribution.

Generally, the party living in the marital home is responsible for the bills as well.  If you’re driving a vehicle, you’re most likely responsible for the costs associated with that vehicle.  Each party is generally responsible for bills in his/her own name, and history helps determine who is responsible for joint bills.  Any payments made during the separation or while the divorce is pending towards joint bills or for the benefit of joint assets may be offset during equitable distribution.

Your assignment: make a list of individual and marital assets and debts.  Gather copies of titles, account statements, appraisals, etc.  Each party will have to prepare an inventory of what property needs to be divided.

If you are trying to determine what to do next, give us a call at 724.550.6970.  We offer a free 30-minute consultation and would love to discuss how we may help you with your divorce.

*Disclaimer: this article is for informational purposes only. It is not providing legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.

So your marriage is coming to an end. Now what?

Although no one gets married planning for a divorce, sometimes people are better off apart.  Maybe they’re better as friends or maybe they’re so toxic together that divorce is the healthiest option for everyone involved.  The end of a relationship – even more so a marriage – can be a tough thing to process both mentally and emotionally.  In the next few posts, we’ll look at some things to consider if you find yourself at the end of your marriage road.

First, remember that the two of you loved each other at some point or you wouldn’t be married in the first place.  Try to use that memory as the foundation for your decisions moving forward, especially if there are children involved.  Revenge may sound good in theory, but is it worth the time, energy, heart and money it will cost you?  Probably not.  Getting back at the spouse who hurt you or taking your spouse to the cleaners may make you feel better now, but it’s likely to cost you (or, more importantly, your children) in the end.  Couples who can amicably dissolve their marriage are more likely to be able to effectively coparent post-divorce.

Research reveals that anywhere from 2 to 10 percent of divorce cases are decided by a judge.  That means an overwhelming majority of divorces are settled amicably between the parties (with or without their lawyers) or in mediation.  You have more control over the outcome of the situation if you are willing to negotiate in good faith with the other party than you do if the decision goes to a divorce master or even the judge.  Would you rather control your destiny or let a stranger who is only going to hear a portion of your story decide for you?

On top of giving you more control over the outcome, uncontested divorces are resolved in a fraction of the time as a contested divorce.  An uncontested divorce can be finalized in roughly 120-150 days, depending on the specific facts of your circumstances.  A contested divorce, which requires a separation period of at least one year, may take up to 15 months or even longer.

If you or your spouse has decided it’s time to end your marriage, give us a call at 724.550.6970.  We offer a free 30-minute consultation and would love to discuss how we may help you with your divorce.

*Disclaimer: this article is for informational purposes only. It is not providing legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Thinking About Divorce?

Check out The Skeen Firm’s divorce guide. Contact us today at info@theskeenfirm.com or 724-550-6970 if you have questions about your unique situation.

*Disclaimer: the advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Spousal Support Seasons in Pennsylvania

They say to everything there is a season.  The same can be said for your divorce.  There are three seasons to a divorce: pre-, pending, and post-divorce.  Just as each season in life has its own set of characteristics, each divorce season has its own type of support.

When two people get married, their budgets and finances are generally combined allowing them to afford a nicer standard of living together as a whole.  Unfortunately, when divorce is on the horizon, those finances are forced to separate which may leave one spouse with inadequate funds to support him/herself.  The spouse whose financial situation is bleaker is generally referred to as the dependent spouse and may be entitled to some form of support.

Pennsylvania has three different types of support to assist the dependent spouse: spousal support, alimony pendente lite, and alimony.  The type of support available to the dependent spouse is determined by how far along the dissolution of the marriage is in the divorce process.  Spousal support pertains to the timeframe after separation, but before someone files a Complaint for Divorce; alimony pendente lite covers the time from when a Complaint is filed until the Order of divorce is granted; and alimony may be awarded post-divorce.

Pre-divorce support, spousal support or alimony pendent lite, is calculated by taking both spouses’ net incomes and applying the statutory formula to arrive at the support amount.  If the statutory guideline amount is inadequate to meet the dependent spouse’s financial needs, the Judge may deviate from the formula and award a greater amount of support.

There is not, however, a formula to calculate alimony or post-divorce support.  Section 3701 of the Pennsylvania Divorce Code lists seventeen factors for the Judge to weigh when determining whether alimony is necessary and in determining the nature, amount, duration and manner of payment of alimony.

Summary of Alimony Factors

After reviewing the factors, alimony is awarded only if a Court finds that alimony is necessary.  In addition to determining whether alimony is necessary, the Court will also determine the duration of the support.  Very rarely is alimony awarded for an indefinite amount of time.  In fact, the general rule of thumb is one year of alimony for every three years of marriage.  Once the Court finds that alimony is necessary, the Court will determine what kind of alimony to award.  There are three types of alimony a Court may award: rehabilitative, permanent or reimbursement.  

A Court may award rehabilitative alimony – alimony for a short amount of time – to empower the dependent spouse to complete any necessary training or education to assist in his/her transition back into the workforce.  Permanent or durational alimony is awarded for a finite amount of time to help the dependent spouse transition into single life, while maintaining a standard of living similar to that established during the marriage.  Lastly, reimbursement alimony may be awarded to a spouse who contributed to the education of the other spouse or the household while the other spouse was in school/training.

Although there are different types of support available depending on your current divorce season, the important thing to remember is that you may be entitled to or eligible for financial assistance before, during or after your divorce.  Contact The Skeen Firm today at 724-550-6970 or info@theskeenfirm.com to discuss the specifics of your situation. 

*Disclaimer: the advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.