Dauphin County Divorce Court Address Information
| Location | Contact Information | Operating Hours | Visitor Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas | 101 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101 Phone: (717) 780-6520 | 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday |
|
Eligibility and Dauphin County Residency Requirements
In Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, to file for divorce, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months and cite an “irretrievably broken” marriage using the no-fault standard.
The Waiting Period and Residency Rules
In Dauphin County, PA, a divorce has a waiting period: 90 days if both parties agree, two years if contested. At least one spouse must have lived in Pennsylvania for six months before filing. The clock starts ticking once the divorce complaint is filed and served.
How to File for Divorce in Dauphin County: Step-by-Step
Filing for divorce in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, begins the legal process to officially end a marriage and resolve issues like property division and child custody. Familiarity with the county’s legal timeline is essential, as it dictates the steps from preparation to filing. Couples must gather required documents and meet criteria before submitting paperwork to the court clerk or online.
Step 1: Preparing Dauphin County Divorce Forms
To file for divorce in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, start by completing the necessary forms. The key document is the Complaint for Divorce, stating the grounds and any claims for relief. You’ll also need a Notice to Defend and a Verification form to proceed legally and confirm the information under oath. If children are involved, include a Parenting Plan detailing custody, visitation, and responsibilities to prioritize their best interests. Additional documents like Income and Expense Statements or Marital Property Statements may be required for financial and asset considerations.
What Are My Options for Filing for Divorce?
1. Online Divorce Service (Best Option – DivorceCanBeSimple.com)
The simplest and cheapest way is through an online divorce service like DivorceCanBeSimple.com. Their step-by-step system fills out your required forms based on a few simple questions to help you avoid mistakes. Once finished, just download and file your papers with the court to get started immediately. This is the ideal path for couples who agree on all terms and want to minimize their legal costs.
2. Divorce With a Lawyer
If you and your spouse cannot agree on the terms of your divorce, hiring a lawyer is the safest way to ensure a fair outcome. If you have a complicated financial situation, such as a shared business or multiple properties, a lawyer’s expertise can prevent costly mistakes. A lawyer can explain your rights, handle complex situations like when you disagree about property, child custody, or support, and represent you in court. To find one, try browsing websites like Avvo.com or FindLaw.com, where you can read reviews and compare local attorneys.
3. Filing Independently (Pro Se)
You have the right to file for divorce without an attorney. While this minimizes legal fees, it requires a high level of attention to detail and a commitment to researching “no-fault” laws of the state you reside in. If you choose this path, be sure to verify your paperwork with the Clerk before your final hearing to ensure your decree is not delayed.
Step 2: Filing Fees and Dauphin Clerk’s Office Procedures
In 2026, filing for divorce in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, costs about $350. You can pay with cash, money orders, or credit/debit cards, but no personal checks. If you can’t afford it, apply for a fee waiver by submitting a “Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis” with your financial details to the Clerk’s Office. A judge will review it to decide if you qualify.
Step 3: Service of Process and Proof of Service
In Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, divorce papers must be served to the respondent according to legal requirements. A neutral third party aged 18 or older, or a process server, delivers the documents. The server then files a Proof of Personal Service affidavit with the court, confirming the delivery details. This ensures the respondent is officially notified so the divorce can move forward.
Requirements for Parents
In Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, divorcing parents with children under 18 must attend a mandatory parenting education program. This course, aimed at understanding divorce’s impact on children and promoting effective co-parenting, must be completed through a state-approved vendor to meet county standards. Parents typically have a set timeframe to complete the course after filing for divorce, and they must provide proof of attendance to advance the proceedings.
Finalizing Your Case in Dauphin County Court
To finalize an uncontested divorce in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, submit a Notice to Defend and Divorce Complaint. After a 90-day waiting period, file an Affidavit of Consent from both parties. Then, submit the Praecipe to Transmit Record and other necessary documents, like the Final Decree of Divorce. After court review, schedule the final hearing by contacting the court administrator.
The Divorce-Courts Team is a dedicated group of researchers providing up-to-date courthouse locations and step-by-step guides to help individuals navigate the divorce process with clarity and confidence. We transform intimidating legal procedures into accessible, actionable information for every county across the country.