The current two-year waiting period is the source of much anguish for divorcing parties. It can cause the process to drag on unnecessarily where one spouse will withhold his or her consent out of spite or to leverage for demands to settle the divorce. The prolonged period of separation without divorce can also create unnecessary uncertainty for divorcing parties’ children.

For the time being, Pennsylvania remains an outlier in the separation period necessary before a unilateral divorce can be granted. Legislation is presently under consideration that will shorten that period to just one year. This would have the effect of bringing swifter resolution to divorces, as well as bring Pennsylvania more in line with surrounding states.

If you need assistance with your divorce matter, please contact our office for a consultation!