The process of filing for divorce can be quite daunting for anyone, especially those who are unsure about the legal requirements. One question that often arises is how long someone must live in Pennsylvania before they can file for divorce. In this article, we will explore the residency requirements for divorce in Pennsylvania.
Residency requirements
In order to file for divorce in Pennsylvania, either spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months before filing. This is an important requirement that must be met in order for a divorce case to proceed in Pennsylvania.
Establishing residency
If you have recently moved to Pennsylvania and wish to file for divorce, you will need to establish residency before doing so. This means that you will need to provide proof that you have lived in the state for at least six months.
Proof of residency can include things such as a lease agreement or mortgage statement, utility bills, driver’s license, voter registration, or even pay stubs that show your address in Pennsylvania. It is important to note that simply having a Pennsylvania driver’s license or voter registration is not enough to establish residency for divorce purposes.
Exceptions to the residency requirement
There are some exceptions to the six-month residency requirement for filing for divorce in Pennsylvania. If both spouses agree to the divorce, and the grounds for divorce occurred in Pennsylvania, there is no minimum residency requirement.
Additionally, if one spouse has been a resident of Pennsylvania for at least six months, and the reason for the divorce occurred in Pennsylvania, the non-resident spouse can file for divorce in Pennsylvania.
Conclusion
Filing for divorce in Pennsylvania requires that at least one spouse has been a resident of the state for at least six months. It is important to provide proof of residency when filing for divorce. However, there are exceptions to the residency requirement if both spouses agree to the divorce and the grounds for divorce occurred in Pennsylvania, or if one spouse has been a resident for six months and the reason for the divorce occurred in Pennsylvania. It is important to consult with a knowledgeable family law attorney to ensure that you meet the residency requirements for filing for divorce in Pennsylvania.