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Online Divorce Partner

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Online Divorce Service

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We offer an online guided path through divorce that helps couples avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

"The Most Trusted

Name in Online Divorce"

Exclusive

Online Divorce Partner

Best

Online Divorce Service

ADVISOR

We offer an online guided path through divorce that helps couples avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

Written By:

Divorce.com Staff

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Real Answers. Real Support.

We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Real Answers. Real Support.

We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

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Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.

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We've helped with

over 1 million divorces

We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.

Proudly featured in these publications

Lancaster County Divorce Guide: Filing in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Lancaster County handles divorce cases through the Court of Common Pleas. Whether you live in Lancaster or another Lancaster County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Lancaster County.

Lancaster County Divorce at a Glance

County: Lancaster County
Primary City: Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Court Type: Court of Common Pleas
Residency Requirement: 6 months
Waiting Period: 90 days mutual consent

What Makes Lancaster County Unique

Every county in Pennsylvania follows the same state divorce laws, but Lancaster County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Lancaster County's Court of Common Pleas has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other Pennsylvania countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Lancaster County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Lancaster County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Lancaster County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Pennsylvania vary by county. Contact the Lancaster County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Pennsylvania Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

  • Service of process: $40-$150

  • Certified copies: $1-$5 per page

  • Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Pennsylvania courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Lancaster County

Attorney fees in Lancaster County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

  • Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour

  • Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour

  • Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

  • Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000

  • Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+

  • High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

  • Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000

  • Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Pennsylvania attorneys. Actual costs in Lancaster County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Lancaster County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Pennsylvania's residency requirement: 6 months

Step 2: Gather Documents

  • Marriage certificate (certified copy)

  • Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

  • Property records

  • Debt information

  • Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Pennsylvania requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Lancaster County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

  • Petition/Complaint for Divorce

  • Financial affidavits

  • Child custody forms (if applicable)

  • Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Lancaster County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Pennsylvania countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Pennsylvania law. Service options include:

  • Sheriff's department

  • Private process server

  • Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Pennsylvania may require:

  • Parenting classes (if children involved)

  • Financial disclosures

  • Mediation attempts

  • Waiting period: 90 days mutual consent

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Lancaster County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

  • Minimum: 90 days mutual consent (state-mandated waiting period)

  • Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree

  • Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

  • Minor disagreements: 4-8 months

  • Significant disputes: 8-14 months

  • Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Lancaster County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas

Lancaster County's divorce cases are handled by the Court of Common Pleas. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

  • Process divorce petitions

  • Conduct hearings and trials

  • Issue temporary orders

  • Approve settlement agreements

  • Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Lancaster County divorce cases.

Pennsylvania Divorce Court Locator

Lancaster County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas

Court Address:

50 N Duke

Lancaster,

PA

17608

Phone:

717-299-8282

Fax:

717-293-7210

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-5pm

Website:

http://www.co.lancaster.pa.us/

Clerks:

Katherine Wood-Jacobs

Court Name:

Lancaster Circuit Court

Court Address:

8265 Mary Ball Road

Lancaster,

VA

22503

Phone:

804-462-5611

Fax:

804-462-9978

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.lancova.com/

Clerks:

Diane H. Mumford

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

P.O. Box 1809

Lancaster,

SC

29721

Phone:

803-416-9799

Fax:

803-416-4088

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-5pm

Website:

https://www.mylancastersc.org/

Judges:

Coreen B. Khoury

Clerks:

Jeff Hammond

Court Name:

Lancaster County Court

Court Address:

575 S 10th St.

Lincoln,

NE

68508

Phone:

(402) 441-7291

Fax:

(402) 441-6056

Website:

http://lancaster.ne.gov/

Judges:

Holly J. Parsley Timothy C. Phillips Laurie J. Yardley Matthew L. Acton James L. Foster Thomas W. Fox

Clerks:

Becky Bruckner

Pennsylvania Divorce Court Locator

Lancaster County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas

Court Address:

50 N Duke

Lancaster,

PA

17608

Phone:

717-299-8282

Fax:

717-293-7210

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-5pm

Website:

http://www.co.lancaster.pa.us/

Clerks:

Katherine Wood-Jacobs

Court Name:

Lancaster Circuit Court

Court Address:

8265 Mary Ball Road

Lancaster,

VA

22503

Phone:

804-462-5611

Fax:

804-462-9978

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.lancova.com/

Clerks:

Diane H. Mumford

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

P.O. Box 1809

Lancaster,

SC

29721

Phone:

803-416-9799

Fax:

803-416-4088

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-5pm

Website:

https://www.mylancastersc.org/

Judges:

Coreen B. Khoury

Clerks:

Jeff Hammond

Court Name:

Lancaster County Court

Court Address:

575 S 10th St.

Lincoln,

NE

68508

Phone:

(402) 441-7291

Fax:

(402) 441-6056

Website:

http://lancaster.ne.gov/

Judges:

Holly J. Parsley Timothy C. Phillips Laurie J. Yardley Matthew L. Acton James L. Foster Thomas W. Fox

Clerks:

Becky Bruckner

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Lancaster County

Legal Aid Services

Pennsylvania has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Lancaster County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Pennsylvania courts offer self-help centers with:

  • Divorce form packets

  • Filing instructions

  • Procedural information

  • Referrals to resources

Contact the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Pennsylvania may offer:

  • Free legal consultations

  • Reduced-fee attorney referrals

  • Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Lancaster County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Lancaster County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Lancaster County.

Benefits of Online Services:

  • Lancaster County-specific forms and filing instructions

  • Professional document preparation

  • Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees

  • Convenient online process

  • Support throughout your case

Best For:

  • Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree

  • Cases without complex assets or custody disputes

  • Couples able to cooperate on terms

  • People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Lancaster County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Lancaster County

Lancaster County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

  • Each parent's ability to care for children

  • Children's relationship with each parent

  • Stability of proposed living arrangements

  • Children's adjustment to home, school, community

  • Parents' willingness to cooperate

  • Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Lancaster County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Pennsylvania uses guidelines based on:

  • Both parents' incomes

  • Number of children

  • Parenting time allocation

  • Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Pennsylvania may require parents in Lancaster County to:

  • Complete parenting education classes

  • Attend mediation for custody disputes

  • Submit detailed parenting plans

  • Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Lancaster County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Pennsylvania requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Pennsylvania county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Pennsylvania's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Lancaster County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Lancaster County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Lancaster County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Lancaster County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Lancaster County?

Uncontested divorces in Lancaster County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Pennsylvania requires 90 days mutual consent waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Lancaster County?

Filing fees vary by Pennsylvania county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Lancaster County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Lancaster County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Pennsylvania's residency requirement (6 months), you can file in Lancaster County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Pennsylvania, you can request a default judgment from Lancaster County court.

How is property divided in Lancaster County?

Pennsylvania follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Lancaster County require separation before divorce?

Pennsylvania's laws determine separation requirements. 90 days mutual consent waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Lancaster County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Lancaster County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Lancaster County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Lancaster County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet Pennsylvania's residency requirement (6 months)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Lancaster County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Lancaster County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Lancaster County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Lancaster County's Court of Common Pleas.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Lancaster County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Pennsylvania family law attorney.

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

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Best

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Written By:

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Lancaster County Divorce Guide: Filing in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Lancaster County handles divorce cases through the Court of Common Pleas. Whether you live in Lancaster or another Lancaster County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Lancaster County.

Lancaster County Divorce at a Glance

County: Lancaster County
Primary City: Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Court Type: Court of Common Pleas
Residency Requirement: 6 months
Waiting Period: 90 days mutual consent

What Makes Lancaster County Unique

Every county in Pennsylvania follows the same state divorce laws, but Lancaster County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Lancaster County's Court of Common Pleas has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other Pennsylvania countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Lancaster County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Lancaster County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Lancaster County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Pennsylvania vary by county. Contact the Lancaster County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Pennsylvania Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

  • Service of process: $40-$150

  • Certified copies: $1-$5 per page

  • Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Pennsylvania courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Lancaster County

Attorney fees in Lancaster County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

  • Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour

  • Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour

  • Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

  • Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000

  • Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+

  • High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

  • Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000

  • Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Pennsylvania attorneys. Actual costs in Lancaster County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Lancaster County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Pennsylvania's residency requirement: 6 months

Step 2: Gather Documents

  • Marriage certificate (certified copy)

  • Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

  • Property records

  • Debt information

  • Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Pennsylvania requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Lancaster County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

  • Petition/Complaint for Divorce

  • Financial affidavits

  • Child custody forms (if applicable)

  • Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Lancaster County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Pennsylvania countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Pennsylvania law. Service options include:

  • Sheriff's department

  • Private process server

  • Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Pennsylvania may require:

  • Parenting classes (if children involved)

  • Financial disclosures

  • Mediation attempts

  • Waiting period: 90 days mutual consent

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Lancaster County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

  • Minimum: 90 days mutual consent (state-mandated waiting period)

  • Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree

  • Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

  • Minor disagreements: 4-8 months

  • Significant disputes: 8-14 months

  • Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Lancaster County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas

Lancaster County's divorce cases are handled by the Court of Common Pleas. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

  • Process divorce petitions

  • Conduct hearings and trials

  • Issue temporary orders

  • Approve settlement agreements

  • Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Lancaster County divorce cases.

Pennsylvania Divorce Court Locator

Lancaster County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas

Court Address:

50 N Duke

Lancaster,

PA

17608

Phone:

717-299-8282

Fax:

717-293-7210

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-5pm

Website:

http://www.co.lancaster.pa.us/

Clerks:

Katherine Wood-Jacobs

Court Name:

Lancaster Circuit Court

Court Address:

8265 Mary Ball Road

Lancaster,

VA

22503

Phone:

804-462-5611

Fax:

804-462-9978

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-4:30pm

Website:

http://www.lancova.com/

Clerks:

Diane H. Mumford

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

P.O. Box 1809

Lancaster,

SC

29721

Phone:

803-416-9799

Fax:

803-416-4088

Clerk Hours:

8:30am-5pm

Website:

https://www.mylancastersc.org/

Judges:

Coreen B. Khoury

Clerks:

Jeff Hammond

Court Name:

Lancaster County Court

Court Address:

575 S 10th St.

Lincoln,

NE

68508

Phone:

(402) 441-7291

Fax:

(402) 441-6056

Website:

http://lancaster.ne.gov/

Judges:

Holly J. Parsley Timothy C. Phillips Laurie J. Yardley Matthew L. Acton James L. Foster Thomas W. Fox

Clerks:

Becky Bruckner

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Lancaster County

Legal Aid Services

Pennsylvania has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Lancaster County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Pennsylvania courts offer self-help centers with:

  • Divorce form packets

  • Filing instructions

  • Procedural information

  • Referrals to resources

Contact the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Pennsylvania may offer:

  • Free legal consultations

  • Reduced-fee attorney referrals

  • Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Lancaster County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Lancaster County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Lancaster County.

Benefits of Online Services:

  • Lancaster County-specific forms and filing instructions

  • Professional document preparation

  • Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees

  • Convenient online process

  • Support throughout your case

Best For:

  • Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree

  • Cases without complex assets or custody disputes

  • Couples able to cooperate on terms

  • People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Lancaster County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Lancaster County

Lancaster County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

  • Each parent's ability to care for children

  • Children's relationship with each parent

  • Stability of proposed living arrangements

  • Children's adjustment to home, school, community

  • Parents' willingness to cooperate

  • Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Lancaster County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Pennsylvania uses guidelines based on:

  • Both parents' incomes

  • Number of children

  • Parenting time allocation

  • Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Pennsylvania may require parents in Lancaster County to:

  • Complete parenting education classes

  • Attend mediation for custody disputes

  • Submit detailed parenting plans

  • Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Lancaster County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Pennsylvania requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Pennsylvania county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Pennsylvania's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Lancaster County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Lancaster County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Lancaster County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Lancaster County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Lancaster County?

Uncontested divorces in Lancaster County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Pennsylvania requires 90 days mutual consent waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Lancaster County?

Filing fees vary by Pennsylvania county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Lancaster County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Lancaster County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Pennsylvania's residency requirement (6 months), you can file in Lancaster County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Pennsylvania, you can request a default judgment from Lancaster County court.

How is property divided in Lancaster County?

Pennsylvania follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Lancaster County require separation before divorce?

Pennsylvania's laws determine separation requirements. 90 days mutual consent waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Lancaster County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Lancaster County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Lancaster County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Lancaster County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet Pennsylvania's residency requirement (6 months)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Lancaster County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Lancaster County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Lancaster County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Lancaster County's Court of Common Pleas.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Lancaster County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Pennsylvania family law attorney.

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

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Clearfield County Divorce Guide: Clearfield, Pennsylvania Filing

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Erie County Divorce Guide: Erie, Pennsylvania Filing

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Forest County Divorce Guide: Tionesta, Pennsylvania Filing

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