Attorney Laputka, left, discusses a case with Attorney McNelis.

During this time, you need someone who understands what you are going through and can advise you of what is best for you and your loved ones. You need a lawyer you can trust, like Attorneys Theodore Laputka and Stephen Rhoades of the McNelis Law Offices.

“Every divorce is a personal matter requiring guidance, compassion and the understanding that, while it might not seem like it, life will go on afterwards,” said Atty. Laputka, who has 34 years of experience in divorce and child custody cases. “It’s important to have someone on your side who understands the law and will be there when you need them.”

Atty. Rhoades, who also practices family law, echoed the same beliefs.

“Divorce is never easy, no matter what the circumstances. It’s an emotionally and mentally challenging time for everyone involved. It’s important to have someone on your side who will listen to you and offer you the counsel you need,” Atty. Rhoades said.

Because divorce is a difficult experience, it is important to have an attorney trained in divorce law in Pennsylvania. That’s where the advice of Attorneys Laputka and Rhoades come in.

There are numerous reasons why a couple may decide to end their marriage. These reasons are referred to as “grounds” for the divorce.

In Pennsylvania, a divorce may be granted using either “fault” or “no-fault” as the grounds.

Seeking a divorce on the grounds of fault means that there is a specific reason why the marriage should be terminated. Fault grounds include adultery; bigamy; imprisonment for two or more years; willful desertion for one year; cruel and inhuman treatment endangering the life of the spouse; and personal indignities.

Pursuing a divorce on the grounds of no-fault implies that, while no specific incident has occurred as mentioned above, the marriage has deteriorated beyond repair. No-Fault grounds are defined as either “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage with the spouses living separate and apart for two years;” or “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage and the spouses have both filed affidavits they consent to the divorce with the spouses no longer living together for a period of at least 90 days.”

The most important step you can take when considering a divorce is to contact a family law specialist. An attorney with a practice that specializes in divorce and family law can prove invaluable when you are ready to take the next step.