Pennsylvania offers two main no-fault divorce paths for couples seeking a DIY approach. Whether you choose the mutual consent route with its 90-day waiting period or the one-year separation path, the state provides official self-help packets and standardized forms. This guide covers residency requirements, filing procedures, county e-filing options, and the step-by-step process to obtain your decree.
Mutual Consent Divorce (90-Day Path)
The fastest DIY option in Pennsylvania is the mutual consent divorce under 23 Pa.C.S. § 3301(c)(1). Both spouses must agree the marriage is irretrievably broken and sign Affidavits of Consent after a 90-day waiting period from service of the Complaint.
Key requirements for mutual consent:
- Both spouses agree on all issues (property, support, custody if applicable)
- Wait 90 days after service before signing Affidavits of Consent
- File signed affidavits within 30 days of signing
- Serve Notice of Intention to File Praecipe (or both sign waivers)
- Wait 20 days after notice, then file Praecipe to Transmit Record
Most uncontested Pennsylvania divorces using this path finalize in 4-6 months when paperwork is complete and error-free.
One-Year Separation Path
If one spouse won't sign consent documents, Pennsylvania offers divorce based on one year of separation under § 3301(d). You must have lived "separate and apart" for at least one year before filing the required affidavit.
Pennsylvania defines "separate and apart" as cessation of cohabitation—you don't need separate homes. Once the separation period has elapsed, file the § 3301(d) Affidavit and serve your spouse with a blank Counter-Affidavit. If they don't contest within 20 days, proceed with the Notice of Intention and Praecipe.
Official Self-Help Forms
The Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System provides free self-help divorce packets through the UJS Divorce Proceedings page. Packets include:
- Complaint with Notice to Defend
- Affidavit of Consent forms
- § 3301(d) Affidavit and Counter-Affidavit
- Notice of Intention to File Praecipe
- Praecipe to Transmit Record
- Waiver forms
Download the complete packet for your situation (§ 3301(c)(1), § 3301(c)(2), or § 3301(d)) and follow the included instructions.
County E-Filing Options
Pennsylvania has no single statewide e-filing system. Each county Prothonotary sets its own e-filing rules. For example, Allegheny County mandates e-filing for attorneys but allows self-represented filers to file in person.
Check your county's Prothonotary or Office of Judicial Records website for e-filing availability and instructions before you file.
Residency Requirements
Under 23 Pa.C.S. § 3104(b), at least one spouse must have been a bona fide Pennsylvania resident for six months immediately before filing. This requirement is jurisdictional and must be stated in your Complaint.
Filing Fees
Filing fees vary by county. Examples for 2025:
- Franklin County: $167.50 (Divorce Complaint)
- Allegheny County: $190.75 (Divorce Complaint) + $20 (Praecipe to Transmit)
Additional costs may include service fees ($0-$125 depending on method), copies, and certified decree fees. Total out-of-pocket for a simple uncontested case typically runs $250-$400 when filing pro se.
Timeline Overview
For a complete breakdown of key milestones, see our Pennsylvania divorce timeline. The minimum timeline for mutual consent divorces:
- Day 0: File and serve Complaint
- Day 90+: Both sign Affidavits of Consent
- Day 110+: Serve Notice of Intention (20-day wait)
- Day 130+: File Praecipe to Transmit Record
- Day 150+: Court enters decree
Estimate Your Pennsylvania Divorce Costs
Use our calculator to estimate your total Pennsylvania divorce costs. For a complete document checklist, see our Pennsylvania divorce filing checklist.
Divorce Cost Calculator
Get a personalized estimate of your potential divorce costs based on your situation and location
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Significant disagreements requiring legal help
Child custody/support decisions needed
You've agreed how to divide property
Disclaimer: These estimates are based on national averages and research data. Actual costs may vary significantly. This calculator is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance.
Legal Disclaimer
This article provides general information about Pennsylvania DIY divorce options and is not legal advice. Pro se divorce is best suited for truly uncontested cases without complex property or custody issues. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Pennsylvania family law attorney. Laws, fees, and court rules may change; verify current requirements with your county Prothonotary.
