Montgomery County Divorce Attorney
Over 100 Combined Years of Experience Guiding Divorce Decisions
At Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC, we understand that every person’s story is different and that what is right for one person won’t necessarily be right for another. Our practice focuses on divorce and family law, and our attorneys bring more than 100 combined years of experience to matters involving property, support, custody, and other family concerns. We assess where you are in the divorce process, the issues requiring attention, and the goals that should guide your legal strategy.
Our attorneys handle high-asset divorces, complex property division, child custody, child support, and alimony matters throughout Montgomery County. We can pursue negotiated solutions through alternative dispute resolution services or prepare for litigation when court intervention becomes necessary. This balanced approach gives you practical options based on your finances, family circumstances, and position in the case.
Call (215) 544-3974 or contact our divorce lawyer in Montgomery County online to get started on your divorce journey.
How Do I File for Divorce in Pennsylvania?
Starting a Pennsylvania divorce involves more than selecting a ground and submitting a complaint. Our attorneys can explain the residency, filing, service, and documentation requirements that apply to your circumstances in Montgomery County.
Pennsylvania recognizes several grounds for divorce, including:
- Mutual consent: Both spouses agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken. The required consent affidavits generally can’t be filed until at least 90 days after the action begins. Learn about Mutual consent.
- Separation-based divorce: One spouse asserts that the marriage is irretrievably broken after the parties have lived separate and apart for at least one year.
- Fault-based divorce: One spouse alleges a legally recognized ground such as adultery.
At least one spouse generally must have been a bona fide Pennsylvania resident for the six months immediately before filing. The one-year separation period is a ground for a particular type of divorce, not a universal prerequisite for filing every divorce action.
The complaint must also be properly served, and proof of service may be required before the court can act. Financial claims need careful attention at this stage because equitable distribution, alimony, and related matters may remain unresolved even when the parties agree that the marriage should end. We help clients identify the claims that belong in the case and prepare for the procedures used by the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas.
Vigorously Representing Clients to Achieve Their Goals
Former Clients Say It Best
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"Highly experienced, client-focused and efficient service"
I appreciated David Draganosky’s informed guidance and willingness to move forward diligently, which set the stage for a favorable resolution. Your firm’s reputation for highly experienced, client-focused and efficient service is well-deserved.
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I was wary about my rights as a father with my children and concerned about having enough time with them during the week and for holidays and breaks from school. Your help in hammering out a very detailed and fair custody agreement was appreciated more tha- Former Client
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Lori Shemtob and her associates were the perfect choice. Lori has the perfect demeanor to defuse any volatile situation.- Former Client
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Cynthia’s practical knowledge of negotiation and the law helped me in a tense situation where my ex-husband did not want me to take the kids with me and then refused to pay any support.- Former Client
Preparing for Your Initial Divorce Consultation
At our initial consultation, we review your income, assets, debts, and the legal issues affecting you and your family. We also discuss where you are in the separation or divorce process, your immediate concerns, and the decisions that may require attention. This assessment allows us to provide candid information about Pennsylvania law and the options available under your circumstances.
Financial statements, tax returns, account records, property information, debt records, and parenting details may be useful when they’re available. You don’t need to resolve every question before contacting us. The consultation is an opportunity to identify missing information and determine which issues should be addressed first.
You can learn how Pennsylvania approaches property division, support, and alimony issues. We can also discuss child custody and child support when those issues apply to your divorce. Our practice regularly represents both men and women in divorces, including matters involving high-value assets and complex property questions.
Negotiation, Alternative Dispute Resolution & Litigation
We resolve many cases through negotiation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution. Depending on the circumstances, those options may include mediation, arbitration, or collaborative law.
A negotiated resolution can give spouses greater control over the terms they accept. When settlement isn’t appropriate or the parties can’t resolve every issue, we’re prepared to litigate to protect our clients’ rights. Our strategy accounts for the issues in dispute, financial complexity, parenting concerns, safety considerations, and each client’s goals.
Large-Firm Experience with Boutique Attention
At Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC, our attorneys concentrate on divorce and family law matters while combining large-firm experience with the personal attention of a boutique practice. Founding partner Lori K. Shemtob is a named Pennsylvania Super Lawyer and a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
We believe your divorce should be handled carefully, with clear explanations and respect for everyone involved. Our attorneys work to create an environment where clients feel safe, heard, and prepared to make informed decisions about their finances, families, and futures.
Discuss Your Montgomery County Divorce With Our Attorneys
A consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your circumstances, legal priorities, financial issues, and parenting concerns. We can assess the information available and explain possible next steps without promising a result before understanding the facts.
Call (215) 544-3974 to request a consultation with our divorce attorneys.
Commonly Asked Questions
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-544-3974 today!
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What is an uncontested divorce and how does it work?
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, including property division, child custody, and support arrangements. The absence of disputes allows for a more amicable process, reducing emotional strain and legal costs.
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How long does the uncontested divorce process take?
The duration of an uncontested divorce can vary, but it typically takes around 3 to 6 months from the time the paperwork is filed until the divorce is finalized. This timeline can be shorter if both parties are cooperative and all necessary documents are submitted promptly.
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What should I prepare before meeting with a divorce lawyer?
Before meeting with a divorce lawyer, it's essential to gather relevant documents to facilitate a productive discussion. This includes financial records such as bank statements, tax returns, and information about assets and debts. Additionally, consider any agreements regarding child custody and support if applicable. We also recommend preparing a list of questions or concerns you may have about the divorce process.
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What should I prepare before meeting with a divorce lawyer?
Before meeting with a divorce lawyer, it's essential to gather relevant documents to facilitate a productive discussion. This includes financial records such as bank statements, tax returns, and information about assets and debts. Additionally, consider any agreements regarding child custody and support if applicable. We also recommend preparing a list of questions or concerns you may have about the divorce process.
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Can I modify the terms of an uncontested divorce after it is finalized?Yes, it is possible to modify the terms of an uncontested divorce after it has been finalized, but it typically requires a legal process. In Pennsylvania, changes to child custody, support, or alimony can be requested through the court if there is a significant change in circumstances.
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What are the benefits of hiring a divorce lawyer?
Hiring a divorce lawyer offers numerous benefits when navigating the complexities of divorce proceedings. Firstly, a divorce lawyer provides seasoned legal advice tailored to the individual's specific situation. This means that they can advocate for your rights and interests. They are skilled in negotiating settlements and can help pursue a fair division of assets and an amicable agreement on child custody arrangements. Additionally, having a lawyer can reduce the emotional stress of managing legal paperwork and timelines, allowing individuals to focus on healing and moving forward.
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What should I prepare before meeting with a divorce lawyer in Montgomery County?
Before meeting with a divorce lawyer, it's essential to gather relevant documents and information to facilitate a productive discussion. This includes financial records such as bank statements, tax returns, and information about assets and debts. Additionally, consider any agreements regarding child custody and support if applicable. At Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC, we recommend preparing a list of questions or concerns you may have about the divorce process. This preparation will help us understand your situation better and tailor our advice to your specific needs.
Meet the Team
Reputable & Trusted Family Law Attorneys
