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 Archives | Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC

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: 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: November 25, 2024

How to End a Common-Law Marriage in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, common-law marriage is a unique legal concept that continues to affect some couples even though the state no longer allows new common-law marriages. Understanding the legal steps and implications is crucial if your relationship qualifies as a common-law…

Posted: October 31, 2024

Do Common Law Spouses Have the Same Rights as Married Couples in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, many couples live together and consider themselves life partners without legally marrying. This type of arrangement is often referred to as “common law marriage.” However, unlike in other states, Pennsylvania does not grant legal recognition to new common-law…

Posted: November 8, 2022

Is it Time to Reconsider Our Parenting Plan?

During divorce proceedings, the court makes a custody agreement to create the best living situation for the children. They base their decision on several factors, including the parents’ incomes, housing, and more, so that the children can get the best…

Posted: October 25, 2022

My Spouse Lied While Drafting a Prenup. What Now?

While prenuptial agreements are something we hear about in TV shows and movies, they are genuine legal documents. Not only do they protect assets, but they also protect spouses from being taken advantage of during a divorce. However, for them…

Posted: October 3, 2019

Deciding Between Legal Separation and Divorce: Which Is Right for You?

When a marriage is broken, divorce or legal separation are pathways to creating a resolution. There are pros and cons to both options; finding out about each process is important before choosing a direction. Understanding Legal Separation A legal separation…

Posted: September 25, 2019

Estate Planning After a Divorce

Ending a marriage a difficult process and can leave you feeling completely drained. Once your divorce is finalized, however, you need to then turn your attention to estate planning. You need to plan how your assets will be distributed, and…

Posted: August 30, 2019

How Does Mental Health Affect My Pittsburgh Family Law Case?

Your mental health is every bit as important as your physical well-being, and we’re fortunate to live in a time when there are treatments and therapies that address these issues. Still, no matter how diligent and responsible you are in…

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