Take Control of Your Custody Battle: Win Sole Custody of Your Child in Pennsylvania
Welcome to the Law Office of Maureen C. Repetto. We understand the importance of protecting the best interests of your child and the stress of navigating the legal system. If you are considering filing for sole custody of your child in Pennsylvania, our experienced child custody lawyers will work with you to ensure that your case is handled with care and attention to detail.
Filing for sole custody can be a complex and overwhelming process, but with the right guidance and understanding of the requirements and steps involved, it can be navigated successfully. In this article, we will provide an overview of the process of filing for sole custody in Pennsylvania and the steps you need to take to do so successfully. So, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case. We are here to help you through this difficult time.
How do I file for sole custody of my child in Pennsylvania?
The first step in filing for sole custody is deciding whether to e-file. Many Pennsylvania counties allow for electronic filing, including Cumberland County, Lancaster County, Lehigh County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County. Some counties, such as Lehigh, even require e-filing.
Once you have decided on e-filing or physical filing, you will need to fill out the necessary paperwork. This includes forms such as the Complaint for Custody, Confidential Information Form, Certificate of Compliance, Criminal Record/Abuse History Verification Form, Notice to Defend, and Scheduling Order. Additionally, if you cannot afford the filing fees, you can complete a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis to ask the court to waive them. It’s important to check with your county court if it has unique forms or procedures.
After completing the paperwork, you will need to finalize it. If you completed the forms online, you can proceed to the next step. If you completed physical forms, you will need to sign the verification section of the complaint in front of a notary. After that, you will need to make copies of the forms, and in some counties, such as Philadelphia, you will need to include a stamped envelope with the defendant’s last known address.
The final step in the process is opening your case. This involves paying a fee between $57 and $300, depending on your county. You may pay less if you already have a divorce or separation case open. E-filing may also bring an additional fee.
It’s important to keep in mind that each case is unique and the process may vary depending on the county you are in. It’s always best to consult with a divorce lawyer or check with your local court for specific instructions and guidance on how to file for sole custody in your area.
Additionally, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the type of custody you are seeking, whether it’s sole or joint, physical or legal, as each type of custody has different implications and requirements.
Why You Should Consider the Law Office of Maureen C. Repetto for Your Custody Case
Overall, filing for sole custody of your child in Pennsylvania can be a complex and overwhelming process. However, with the right guidance and understanding of the requirements and steps involved, it can be navigated successfully. If you are considering filing for sole custody, we highly recommend seeking the help of a divorce lawyer.
At the Law Office of Maureen C. Repetto, we understand the importance of protecting the best interests of your child and the stress of navigating the legal system. Our experienced attorneys will work with you to ensure that your case is handled with care and attention to detail. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case. We are here to help you through this difficult time.