Can I get divorced without a lawyer?

Many uncontested divorces are handled pro se. If there are contested assets, support disputes, or custody conflict, consider consulting an attorney.

What is the difference between a petition and a response?

The petition starts the case (you are the petitioner). The response is what you file if your spouse filed first and served you.

Does this cover custody?

It includes a custody framework, and a dedicated custody-agreement generator is available for parenting plans and schedules.

Pennsylvania Divorce Forms

Start or respond to a divorce with court-ready petition and response documents.

Start your Pennsylvania divorce forms

Pennsylvania is already picked for you. Free preview - $9 to download the court-ready PDF.

An uncontested or simple divorce often does not require a lawyer. This tool drafts the Petition for Dissolution, the Response, and a marital settlement framework covering property division and, where relevant, custody.

Divorce in Pennsylvania: what the official sources say

Court: Court of Common Pleas

At least one spouse must have been a bona fide Pennsylvania resident for at least 6 months right before filing. source
For a no-fault divorce where separation began on or after Dec. 5, 2016, you must live separate and apart for one year before filing your complaint. source

Official Pennsylvania forms and instructions

Divorce proceedings - representing yourself

Checked against the official sources on 2026-09-10. Court rules change, so confirm them before you file.

Before you file in Pennsylvania, confirm

How long you must live in Pennsylvania before you can file
Whether Pennsylvania has a waiting period before a divorce can be final
Which official Pennsylvania forms must be filed with your petition
How your spouse must be served, and the filing fee or fee waiver

The official Pennsylvania court site below has the current answers.

Documents you can generate

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Response to a petition you were served with
Property division and settlement framework
Formatted for your state family court

Official resources and free legal help

Pro Se Legal Docs is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. These templates help you prepare your own filing; they do not replace advice from a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get divorced without a lawyer?: Many uncontested divorces are handled pro se. If there are contested assets, support disputes, or custody conflict, consider consulting an attorney.
What is the difference between a petition and a response?: The petition starts the case (you are the petitioner). The response is what you file if your spouse filed first and served you.
Does this cover custody?: It includes a custody framework, and a dedicated custody-agreement generator is available for parenting plans and schedules.

Other Pennsylvania forms

Eviction Defense Small Claims Debt Lawsuit Defense Domestic Violence Restraining Order Custody Agreement Unpaid Wage Claim Civil Harassment Restraining Order Bankruptcy Schedule

Divorce forms for every state

Ready to prepare your Pennsylvania divorce forms?

Start now

This is a self-help document generator, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court rules and filing requirements in Pennsylvania can change - confirm specifics with your local court clerk or a licensed attorney.