Leaving a relationship can be hard, especially when it is an abusive one. PA Safe Law is here to answer questions you might have about divorce. Spousal abuse can cause safety risks and financial issues. If you are thinking about leaving an abusive marriage a protection order may help. Pennsylvania has Protection from Abuse Orders (PFAs) to protect victims of domestic violence. This is similar to what other states call a restraining order. A PFA can order your spouse not to abuse, stalk, harass, or threaten you and can limit contact. Call our attorneys to learn more about protection orders.
In Pennsylvania, the fastest way to get divorced is to file for a no-fault divorce. This is a type of divorce in which you do not have to prove that your spouse did anything wrong. If you and your spouse both agree to a no-fault divorce, a divorce can be entered after a 90-day waiting period. Otherwise a divorce can be entered after one year of separation. If your spouse has been convicted of certain personal injury crimes against you (such as assault or strangulation) the court can treat that as your spouse consenting to the divorce.
Abusive relationships often include financial abuse. It can be hard to leave an abusive spouse if you do not have access to money. Spousal support may help. You may be entitled to spousal support if you are separated due to abuse and your spouse financially supported you during the marriage. You can file for spousal support at your local domestic relations office before you file for a divorce.
Talk to one of our attorneys by phone, email, or chat to find out more about the different types of divorce.