Faster Divorces Available Thanks to Act 102

12 Oct 2025, by Postali Content in Divorce

Written by Timothy Czekaj

One of the most challenging aspects of a divorce is the length of the legal process. Many people begin the divorce process assuming it will be over in a few months, especially if they believe they have few assets or expect minimal disagreement. Unfortunately, many divorces take far longer, particularly when spouses disagree on ending the marriage or resolving major issues such as property division or custody.

However, a recent Pennsylvania law, Act 102, has helped shorten the timeline for certain no-fault divorces. If you are pursuing a unilateral no-fault divorce, you may only need to wait one year before moving forward more quickly.

To learn how long your divorce might take based on your specific situation, contact the experienced Pennsylvania divorce attorney at Czekaj Law, LLC by calling (717) 275-9770 .

What Is Act 102 in Pennsylvania?

Before Act 102 became law, the waiting period for a unilateral no-fault divorce, a divorce filed without the spouse’s consent, was two years. This meant spouses had to live “separate and apart” for at least two years before the court would consider the marriage irreparably broken.

How Act 102 Changed the Timeline

Under Act 102, the waiting period is now only one year. This major change allows individuals whose spouses refuse to consent to the divorce to move the process forward more quickly.

Why the Change Matters

You no longer need a two-year separation to prove the marriage is over.
A 12-month separation is sufficient to demonstrate irretrievable breakdown.
It significantly reduces delays caused by an uncooperative spouse.

If you believe your spouse will not sign divorce paperwork, this law provides a much faster path to legally ending the marriage.

Fulfilling the Required Waiting Period

If you are ready to begin the legal process of obtaining a divorce from your spouse, contact an experienced Pennsylvania divorce attorney at Czekaj Law, LLC right away. There are three primary types of divorce in Pennsylvania:

Mutual no-fault
Unilateral no-fault and
Fault-based divorce

If you and your spouse agree to the divorce, it can be finalized after a minimum of three months, depending on the speed at which you resolve all of the various issues, such as child custody, child support, property division, and alimony. However, if you file for divorce and your spouse refuses to consent, you will have to complete a minimum one-year separation.

Under the law, you must be able to prove that you have lived separate and apart from your spouse during this entire year. You can complete this requirement while living under the same roof; however, most people choose to live in separate homes.

Actions That Demonstrate Separation

Wherever you and your spouse live, you both must stop acting as if you are married to fulfill the waiting requirement. This typically includes:

Having independent sleeping areas
Refraining from sexual or intimate conduct
Not sharing meals
Separating your household duties and chores
Separating your parenting duties as is appropriate and in the best interest of your children
Separating your finances as much as possible
Living an independent life outside of the marriage

Let Our Perry County Divorce Attorney Guide You Through the Process

Deciding that your marriage is over is never easy. Even when you’re emotionally ready to move forward, the legal steps can feel overwhelming. At Czekaj Law, LLC, we understand that you need both straightforward legal guidance and compassionate support during this transition.

How We Support You

Clear Explanation of Your Rights: We help you understand your legal options, obligations, and the likely timeline of your divorce.
Guidance Through Every Step: You’ll receive support navigating issues such as property division, support, custody, and the separation requirement under Act 102.
A Focus on Efficient Resolution: Our goal is to move your case forward as quickly and smoothly as possible, while protecting your long-term interests.

Speak With a Pennsylvania Divorce Lawyer Today

At Czekaj Law, LLC, we understand that you need both objective legal information and compassionate help during this time. We will explain your options, rights, and responsibilities regarding divorce while gently helping you understand what to expect in the coming months and years. Our goal will be to help you through this process as quickly and smoothly as possible.