What counts as a substantial change in circumstances in Pennsylvania?

A substantial change is one that is material, continuing, and was not anticipated when the order was entered. Examples include involuntary job loss, a significant raise, long-term disability, retirement, a parent's relocation, remarriage or cohabitation by an alimony recipient, or a meaningful shift in a child's needs. Short-term or voluntary changes are usually not enough.

How long do I have to challenge a Pennsylvania divorce decree for fraud?

Under 23 Pa.C.S. § 3332, a motion to open a decree based on intrinsic fraud or new evidence must be filed within 30 days, the same window as a standard appeal under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5505. A motion to vacate based on extrinsic fraud, lack of jurisdiction, or a fatal defect must be filed within five years of the final decree.

Can I modify property division after a Pennsylvania divorce is finalized?

Property division is generally final once a Pennsylvania divorce decree is entered. The court will only revisit property in narrow situations, such as proof that a spouse concealed assets, undervalued property, or procured the agreement through fraud, duress, or misrepresentation. The five-year window under 23 Pa.C.S. § 3332 still applies.

Do I need a court order to change child support or custody if my ex agrees?

Yes. The existing court order remains in force until a judge approves a new one. Parents can negotiate the terms together, but the agreement must be filed and adopted by the Allegheny County Family Division or the appropriate county court. Otherwise, the original order is the only one the court will enforce.

How long does it take to modify a divorce order in Pittsburgh?

Timelines depend on the type of modification and the county. Uncontested modifications can move quickly, sometimes within a few months. Contested modifications, particularly custody matters that require a conciliation conference and a hearing, often take longer. Filing well-organized documentation and clear evidence helps move the case forward.

Family Law Blog | Pittsburgh Legal Insights

Posted: May 11, 2026

When To Consider Modifying Your Divorce

If circumstances have changed in your life or in your former spouse’s life, you might want to consider modifying your divorce decree to reflect the update. Pennsylvania family courts allow modifications to certain parts of a divorce order, but the…

Posted: May 7, 2026

Can You Modify a Child Custody Agreement in Pennsylvania?

Life does not always go the way you planned it. The fact that you have a child custody agreement is evidence of the fact that unexpected situations can arise at any point in your life. This remains true even after…

Posted: April 25, 2026

Can Spousal Support be Modified After a Divorce?

After a Pennsylvania divorce, an alimony order can feel like a fixed obligation. In many cases, however, the amount or duration of alimony can change when life circumstances change. Pennsylvania law gives both parties a path to ask the court…

Posted: April 14, 2026

How Do I Get Child Support Increased?

Pennsylvania law allows for modification of a child support order under certain conditions. Because any modification, increase or decrease, substantially impacts both parents and the children involved, family courts take these requests seriously. When you need an increase in child…

Posted: April 1, 2026

Is It Worth It to Get a Divorce Lawyer?

A divorce can be stressful and expensive. You might think you can save money by doing it yourself and not hiring an attorney. In most situations, though, hiring an experienced divorce lawyer leaves you better off in the long run….

Posted: January 16, 2026

How to Tell Your Kids About Your Divorce

Getting a divorce can be a challenging decision, and when you have children, it can be one of the most difficult conversations you’ll have as a parent. How you share this life-changing news can significantly affect your children and shape…

Posted: December 5, 2025

Acts of Adultery might Affect Your Divorce Case – Learn How

Even though Pennsylvania is a “no-fault” divorce state, you may still be seeking a “grounds” to file for divorce. If your partner commits adultery and cheats on you, you can list that as your reason for seeking to end your…

Posted: December 2, 2025

7 Tips to Help You Get Through a Divorce

Going through a divorce can be one of the most emotionally challenging experiences in life. If you’re navigating a divorce in Pittsburgh, following these seven tips can help you manage stress, protect your interests, and make the process smoother for…

Posted: October 6, 2025

What Should I Do if My Ex Violates Our Custody Agreement?

If your ex isn’t following your custody agreement, it can create serious stress and confusion. Missed drop-offs, schedule changes without notice, or refusal to return your child can all disrupt your life and your child’s well-being. In Pennsylvania, custody orders…

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