However, they choose not to file a divorce decree with the court.

Instead, they may each remain obligated under the separation agreement for an indefinite period of time, subject to future modifications..

Unlike child support, in Pennsylvania there is no set formula for calculating post-divorce alimony payments. More on alimony in PAIf a choice is made to litigate your divorce matter in court, the Pennsylvania Support Guidelines would apply.

Rather, whether or not to award post-divorce alimony lies within the exclusive discretion of the court and based on 17 different factors that it can consider in the Pennsylvania alimony statute (23Pa. The guidelines provide a formula-based calculation for spousal support or alimony pendente lite (APL) which only applies until the final resolution of your matter. However, they are not bound by the numbers their divorce mediator calculates, but are instead encouraged to negotiate support or alimony amounts that are most fair and that work best for their needs and respective budgets, and to also seek the advice of independent outside counsel before agreeing to any child support amount.

This option is generally more expensive than divorce mediation.

Contrary to popular belief, the concept of a legal separation does not exist in Pennsylvania.

You can also call your PA county courthouse and they can refer you to legal aid.

The court should evaluate each case separately on its own merits in deciding whether to award a sum of alimony and its duration.A divorce judge is then assigned to issue a final divorce decree.Similarly, in a separation agreement, the parties have a legally-binding agreement that settles all their affairs.If both you and your spouse are in agreement that you want a divorce, then you have an uncontested divorce.Before you actually file for divorce in PA, consider whether you are both amicable enough to mediate your divorce, or whether you have anything that might require resolution through a mediation process.