Being able to divorce your spouse without his or her consent has been an option in Pennsylvania since 1980. But this type of divorce, which is known as “no-fault,” recently got a slight rewrite from a bill signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf. The new law reduces the mandatory separation period for no-fault divorces from two years to one.

Rep. Tara Toohil of Luzerne County sponsored the legislation to ease stress on those involved in the divorce, particularly children, as the shorter waiting period can foster a quicker process for parents to divide assets, determine support, and begin co-parenting as a divorced couple. It can also begin the post-divorce healing process more expeditiously.

According to the new law, a couple must live apart for a year before filing.

If you have questions about no-fault divorce in Pennsylvania and are looking for experienced Bucks County divorce lawyers, email info@bucksfamilylawyers.com or contact us online.