Where do I file for divorce in Washington County?

You file with the Washington County Prothonotary at the Washington County Courthouse (95 W. Beau St., Suite 510). Contact the Prothonotary to confirm hours and exact filing steps.

How long do I have to live in Pennsylvania before filing divorce?

At least one spouse must have been a Pennsylvania resident for 6 months before filing.

How long does a divorce take in Pennsylvania?

A mutual-consent divorce may be finalized after the statutory waiting period (often 90 days). A separation divorce requires proof of 1 year living separate and apart. Complex issues like custody or property division can add time.

Who enforces child support in Washington County?

The Domestic Relations Section of Washington County handles establishment, collection, and enforcement of child and spousal support. They do not handle divorce filings.

How much does it cost to file for divorce in Washington County?

Fees vary. Washington County publishes a fee bill. Expect a base filing fee plus per-count fees for additional requests such as custody, alimony, or equitable distribution. Check the county’s fee PDF before filing.

Divorce Process — Washington County, PA | The Skeen Firm

How to File for Divorce in Washington County, Pennsylvania (2025 Guide)

Filing for divorce in Washington County, PA can feel overwhelming. This step-by-step guide explains the process, local filing requirements, costs, and what to bring to your consultation.

Quick Facts

Where to file: Washington County Prothonotary, Washington County Courthouse, 95 West Beau Street, Suite 510, Washington, PA
Residency requirement: At least one spouse must have lived in Pennsylvania for 6 months before filing
Common no-fault options: Mutual consent (affidavits + 90-day waiting period) or 1-year separation divorce
Filing fees: Base fee + per-count fees for custody, alimony, or property division
Domestic Relations: Handles support enforcement but not divorce filings

Step-by-Step Divorce Process

Confirm residency & venue: Make sure you or your spouse has been a PA resident for ≥6 months. File in the county where your spouse lives, or your own if they no longer reside in PA.
Choose the type of divorce:
- Mutual-consent (no-fault): Both agree marriage is irretrievably broken; streamlined 90-day waiting period.
- Separation (no-fault): Lived separate for ≥1 year; court enters decree after proof of separation.
- Fault-based: Rarely used; more complex process.
Prepare paperwork: Complaint in Divorce + additional counts (custody, support, alimony, property). Number counts carefully; fees apply per count.
File at the Washington County Prothonotary: Office assigns case number and returns stamped copies. E-filing may be available via C-Track portal.
Serve the other party: Must serve your spouse after filing unless mutual consent simplifies service.
Resolve temporary needs: Request temporary support, exclusive use of home, or custody if needed.
Final decree: Mutual-consent after waiting period; separation divorce after 1-year proof. Complex issues may extend timeline.

Washington County Contacts & Resources

Prothonotary: Washington County Courthouse, 95 W. Beau St., Suite 510, Washington, PA 15301 — Phone: (724) 228-6770
Domestic Relations Section: Handles child & spousal support — Official Site
E-filing & Records: C-Track Public Portal — E-filing info

Filing Costs — What to Expect

Washington County charges a base filing fee plus per-count fees for additional requests (alimony, custody, property division). Use our fee calculator below to estimate your Washington County filing fees. Check the latest county fee PDF for exact amounts.

Estimate Your Washington County Divorce Filing Fee

Select the number of counts (1–10) and whether you include a custody claim:

Documents & Checklist for Your Consultation

Photo ID & Social Security numbers
Marriage certificate
Date of separation (if applicable)
Last 2–3 years of tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, mortgage/lease, retirement accounts
List of children & current custody arrangements
Prior court orders (support, protection, etc.)

Book a Consultation

Ready to start your Washington County divorce? Book a Discovery Call or call (724) 250-8841 today.

Washington County Divorce Guide