Abington Divorce Lawyer

Are You in Need of an Abington, Pennsylvania, Divorce Lawyer?

Divorce is never easy, even when both sides are ready to move on. This complex process requires careful planning to protect everyone, especially if there are children involved.

At the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., our specialized divorce lawyer offers necessary guidance and legal support to clients facing divorce in Abington.

Why Choose Us Over Other Divorce Attorneys in Abington

Firm founder and lead attorney Sheryl R. Rentz has been helping families in Abington for over 30 years. She uses her keen understanding of the law to provide sound advice and legal assistance to our clients.

The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C. | Divorce Law Firm in Abington

The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., has a Perfect 10.0 AVVO rating.
Sheryl R. Rentz was selected as a Top Attorney by Suburban Life Magazine.
Sheryl R. Rentz is a committee member of the Montgomery Child Advocacy Project (MCAP).
Sheryl R. Rentz has served as Secretary and Co-chair of the Montgomery Bar Association (MBA).
Sheryl R. Rentz has been serving the local community for over 30 years.

Call (610) 645-0100 today to schedule a FREE case review with Sheryl R. Rentz, an experienced divorce and family law lawyer of over 30 years.

Requirements and Grounds for Divorce in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the divorce process begins when one spouse files the necessary paperwork. The couple must be separated for at least 90 days before filing. Separation does not always mean living in different homes—it can mean living separately within the same house, provided there's a clear intent to separate.

Pennsylvania is a no-fault state when it comes to divorce. This means neither spouse has to prove that the other one did something wrong to cause the end of the marriage. Irreconcilable differences is also sufficient grounds for divorce, meaning the couple has fundamental issues that cannot be resolved.

Contested Vs. Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is when both parties agree on all key issues, such as property division, child custody, and support. This process is typically faster and less stressful than a contested divorce. The latter happens when spouses cannot agree on one or more issues, requiring court intervention. Contested divorces often arise from disagreements over significant issues, such as:

Child custody disagreements can be another source of contention, especially when both parents seek primary custody.
Financial disputes over alimony or spousal support can also lead to prolonged court battles.
Emotional factors, such as infidelity or lack of communication, often exacerbate these disputes.

Why You Should Avoid Filing for Divorce Yourself

Handling a divorce without consulting an Abington divorce and family law firm might seem like a good way to save money. But DIY divorce can be risky, especially when you consider what's at stake—your financial future and the well-being of your children.

Filing Deadlines and Other requirements

One of the biggest risks of a DIY divorce is missing filing deadlines. Courts have strict deadlines for submitting documents, and missing them can result in delays or even case dismissals.

Financial impact: Missing deadlines can increase costs, as you might need to re-file or pay additional court fees.
Legal consequences: A missed deadline might mean losing the opportunity to present your case effectively.
Time delays: Missing a deadline can set back the divorce process by weeks or even months.

Seeking a Fair Settlement

Achieving a fair settlement is essential for securing the necessary resources to move forward with your life. That's why it's so important to find a divorce attorney in Abington who can advise you on the following matters:

Asset distribution
Asset valuation
Hidden assets
Long-term financial planning
Spousal and child support
Tax laws

The Importance of Objectivity in Divorce

Personal attachments can cloud judgment, leading to impulsive decisions. This could push a spouse to make decisions based on anger or sadness rather than logic or fairness. Emotional decision-making can also increase stress, making the process even more challenging.

The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., can provide legal support during this stressful time. Call (610) 645-0100 for objective guidance.

Major Factors to Consider Before Filing Divorce

Child Custody

Child custody refers to the rights of parents to care for their child. It's important to create a custody plan that provides a stable and supportive environment for your child. On the other hand, joint custody is an arrangement where both parents share responsibilities. Sole custody may also be granted, where one parent is responsible.

Spousal Support and Child Support Arrangements

Spousal support (alimony) involves one spouse providing financial assistance to the other after the divorce. The court considers several factors when determining the amount of support a spouse is entitled to receive, including the length of the marriage, each spouse's income, and their financial needs.

Child support includes costs related to education, healthcare, and daily living expenses. Unpaid child support can lead to legal consequences.

High-Net-Worth Divorces

High-net-worth divorces present unique challenges, as these cases often involve businesses, investments, and properties. But the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., has considerable experience in high-net-worth divorce cases.

A high-net-worth divorce often requires a collaborative approach involving financial advisors and accountants. Our Montgomery County divorce law firm can assist with asset valuations to help ensure equitable distribution.

Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

Domestic violence is a serious concern in divorce cases. If you're facing abuse, it's crucial to seek legal assistance right away. A restraining order, for example, is a legal tool that protects individuals from harassment or harm. If you face threats or abuse, obtaining a restraining order can be crucial.

You'll want to follow these steps:

File a petition: Visit your local courthouse to file a petition detailing why you need protection.
Attend a hearing: A judge will review your case and decide whether to grant the order.
Follow the order's terms: Ensure you understand and comply with the order's conditions to maintain legal protection.

Pet custody

Pets are often considered family members, making pet custody a challenging issue during divorce. Pet custody agreements outline how pets will be cared for post-divorce, focusing on their well-being.

Determine custodial arrangements: Decide whether one party will have sole custody or if there will be a shared arrangement.
Outline responsibilities: Specify who will handle pet-related expenses and daily care duties.
Consider the pet's best interests: Focus on maintaining a stable environment for the pet, minimizing disruptions and stress.
Impact on children: It's advisable to consider the relationship your children have developed with the pet.

Prenuptial Agreements

Prenuptial agreements outline how assets will be divided if a marriage ends in divorce. These contracts are designed to protect individual assets and clarify financial expectations. They may address the following issues:

Define asset division: Clearly outline how assets, including property and debts, will be divided.
Inheritances and businesses: Ensure personal assets remain protected and separate from marital property.
Minimize conflicts: By setting clear terms in advance, prenuptial agreements reduce disputes and streamline the divorce process.

The Divorce Process in Pennsylvania

The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., assist clients with necessary procedures. This may include:

Filing for Divorce
Service of Process
Responding to a Divorce Filing
Discovery Phase
Negotiation and Settlement
Trial

Filing for Divorce

Filing for divorce is the first official step in ending a marriage. The spouse who initiates the process by filing for divorce is referred to as the plaintiff.

Service of Process

Serving papers ensures that the other party has been notified of the divorce proceedings. These documents can be served in person or by certified mail.

Response to a Divorce Filing

In Pennsylvania, a spouse who receives divorce papers has 20 days to respond. If you have received divorce papers, you'll want to:

Review the documents: Carefully read the complaint and understand the requests being made.
File an answer: Respond to each point in the complaint, agreeing or disagreeing with the statements.
Talk to an attorney: Your divorce lawyer can advise on the best strategy for responding to the filing.

Discovery Phase

The discovery phase involves gathering evidence that's relevant to the divorce case. It ensures both parties have access to the necessary information to proceed with the divorce process.

Depositions: Witnesses provide sworn testimony outside of court.
Interrogatories: Written questions that must be answered by the other party.
Document requests: Collecting financial statements, emails, and other pertinent documents.

Negotiation and Settlement

Settlement negotiation is where both parties work to reach an agreement without going to trial. Topics that may be covered include:

Child custody and support: Deciding on custody arrangements and financial support for children.
Division of assets: Agreeing on how to divide property, investments, and debts.
Spousal support: Determining if one spouse will provide financial support to the other.

Trial

If settlement negotiations fail to produce a mutually satisfying agreement, preparing for a trial becomes necessary. During a divorce trial, both parties present their case before a judge, who will then make a decision based on the evidence and arguments presented.

Here's a look at the trial process:

Opening statements: Each party outlines its case and what it aims to prove.
Presentation of evidence: Both sides present documents, witness testimonies, and other evidence.
Closing arguments: Final summaries of each party's position are made.

Is Mediation an Option for Your Divorce?

Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps facilitate discussions and resolves disputes. It may lead to a satisfactory outcome for both parties.

Key benefits of mediation include:

Cost-effectiveness: Mediation is generally less expensive than a court trial.
Confidentiality: Unlike court proceedings, mediation is private, keeping personal matters out of the public record.
Control over outcomes: Couples have more say in the final agreement, leading to customized solutions.
Preserved relationships: The cooperative nature of mediation helps maintain civil relationships, which is beneficial when children are involved.

How Is Property Divided in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, property division follows the principle of equitable distribution. This means that assets are divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Equitable distribution is based on factors such as:

Length of marriage
Contributions to marital property
Standard of living during the marriage
Economic circumstances of each spouse

Common Divorce Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting too long to file
Not seeking legal advice
Lack of communication
Resuming intimate relations
Accepting an unfair agreement
Fighting over insignificant matters
Hiding assets
Falling behind on payments
Treating your children like adults
Failing to consider estate planning and taxes

Some of the Family Law Services We Provide in Abington

Enforcing of Agreements
Annulment
Arbitration
Collaborative Law & Mediation
Military Divorce
Complex/High-Asset Divorce
Pre-Marital Agreements
Domestic Violence
Same-Sex Family Law
Paternity
Adoption
Post-Decree Modifications
Child Custody
Relocations
Child Support
Stepparents' Rights
Grandparents' Rights
Surrogacy
Mediation
Visitation
Parental Alienation

What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

"This Was a Painless and Quick Divorce Process" - Sharon Robbins (5-Star Google Review)

Sheryl is amazing! She responds timely to emails and [is] extremely responsive to phone calls and text messages. This was a painless and quick divorce process. I highly recommend her!

"After Almost 2 Years of Battling […] She Helped Me Keep Custody" - Laura W. (5-Star Yelp Review)

Sheryl is the BOMB!!! I had a high-conflict custody from hell. Sheryl got me custody back after almost 2 years of battling! She helped me keep custody and negotiate peace for our family. Sheryl is a family lawyer!

"She Made the Divorce Process As Simple As Possible" - Heather Shupp White (5-Star Facebook Review)

Sheryl and her staff were caring and concise. She made the divorce process as simple as possible for both parties involved while making sure that I was protected. She was readily available at all times and extremely knowledgeable. Divorce is scary for a working, new mom and she made it manageable. I can't thank her enough.

Other Areas We Serve in Pennsylvania

A Compassionate Divorce and Family Lawyer

Call the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., at (610) 645-0100 to experience a smooth and painless divorce process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know if My Spouse Is Hiding Assets?

Look for unusual banking activity—such as unexplained withdrawals or transferring assets to family members—and note if your spouse is being secretive about financial matters. The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., works with forensic accountants to locate hidden assets.

What Are the Grounds for Divorce in Abington, Pennsylvania?

Because Pennsylvania is a no-fault divorce state, irreconcilable differences is adequate grounds for seeking a divorce.

How Long Will My Divorce Take?

The time frame for the divorce process ranges from 90 days to over a year. A contested divorce will often take longer than an uncontested divorce.

Can I Get a Divorce Without Hiring an Attorney?

Yes, you can file for divorce on your own, but it's a complex process. A family law and divorce law firm like the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C., can help you protect your financial assets and develop a workable custody arrangement for your kids.

How Is Marital Property Divided in Pennsylvania?

The state's equitable distribution law means several factors are taken into consideration to determine a fair distribution of marital assets. It is not a simple 50/50 split as it would be in a state with equal distribution laws.

We know your problems are unique & special.
Call us, we will listen.
(610) 645-0100

Meet Attorney
Sheryl Rentz

Meet Sheryl Rentz