Pennsylvania Divorce Law

Discuss your situation with a Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Divorce Lawyer

As one of the first female private lawyers in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area to focus on domestic relations law, partner Lori K. Serratelli provides a depth of experience in divorce proceedings.

If you have been notified by your spouse that he or she wants a divorce, or if you want to initiate a divorce action, contact the attorneys at Serratelli, Schiffman, Brown & Calhoon, P.C. for advice.

Divorce Counseling

Do I have grounds for divorce?

Do I qualify for support of any kind?

Should I leave the house?

What should I do about the bank accounts?

Answers to these commonly asked questions about divorce differ, depending on the complexity of the case. Counseling services are based on an in- depth understanding of the current situation as well as the history of the marriage. The initial consultation addresses such specifics as employment history, debts, assets, grounds for divorce and whether or not there are children involved.

There are generally two types of divorce: fault and no fault. No-fault divorces involve either a 90-day waiting period and written consent to the divorce thereafter, or a two-year separation.

A fault divorce requires the plaintiff to be innocent and injured, while the defendant must be guilty of marital misconduct. Fault divorces are filed much less frequently.

Depending on the complexity of the case, the divorce process involving marital property distribution usually takes up to 12 months, but can take as long as two or three years through the Court of Common Pleas. Appeals to reverse the decision can increase that time even more.

Services also include representation through divorce, assistance in getting spousal support for "dependent spouses," and representation in matters such as:

• Child Support, Custody and Visitation
• Protection From Abuse

Our Experience

Pennsylvania divorce lawyer Lori K. Serratelli has handled all levels of the judicial system, including complex matters before the state Superior and Supreme Courts. With an ongoing involvement in domestic relations issues, she maintains a current understanding of changes in statutes at all times.

Ms. Serratelli lectures on family law issues to various groups throughout the region. She is a member of the American Bar Association, the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the Dauphin County Bar Association.

Cara Boyanowski has concentrated her practice in family law and is past Chair of the Family Law Section of the Dauphin County Bar Association.