Every county in Pennsylvania operates under the state’s divorce code and the rules of civil procedure, but within these confines, each county implements its own local rules. As a result, primary issues such as the interpretation of the law and litigation procedures can vary significantly from county to county. This makes working closely with our experienced Franklin County family law attorneys at JSDC Law Offices the surest way to protect your rights throughout the process.

Family Law Cases in Franklin County

Family law cases in Franklin County are heard at the Court of Common Pleas at the Franklin County Judicial Center. Each case is unique, but common family law cases fall into the following categories:

• Divorce and terms of divorce, such as dividing property, legal and physical custody, child support, and alimony
• Post-divorce modifications
• Child custody and child support between parents who were never married
• Relocation
• Grandparents’ rights
• Adoption

Divorce and Related Terms

Most divorces in Franklin County are no-fault, which means they are based on the marriage being irretrievably broken. The state also awards fault-based divorces that are based on grounds like adultery, cruelty, and desertion, but the spouse who claims the other’s fault has the burden of proving it. It’s important to note that specific divorce terms can be directly affected in a fault-based case.

The vast majority of divorces in Franklin County and throughout Pennsylvania are also uncontested. This means couples can resolve each term together, without needing court intervention. Uncontested divorces are often less expensive, faster, and less contentious, while also providing greater privacy, which encourages many couples to engage in open, collaborative negotiations.

Grandparents’ Rights

In Pennsylvania, grandparents do not have any automatic rights to visit their grandchildren. Only if they can establish legal standing and demonstrate that spending time with their grandchildren is in the children’s best interests will visitation be awarded. To proceed with a visitation case, one of the following must apply:

• One of the grandchildren’s parents is deceased.
• The grandchildren’s parents’ marriage has been dissolved, or the parents have been separated for at least six months.
• The grandparents had their grandchildren live with them for at least 12 months in a row. They must also file for visitation within six months of the children leaving their home.

Adoption

The adoption process in PA can feel overwhelming, as it involves legal complexities and passing state and FBI background checks. Having skilled legal guidance by your side can make the journey smoother and give you peace of mind.

Our Experienced Franklin County Family Law Lawyers Can Help

Our trusted Franklin County family law attorneys at JSDC Law Offices are dedicated to skillfully guiding our clients through the legal process as effectively and efficiently as possible. The outcome of your case is important, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call our firm at 717-520-4400 for more information today.