Best Marriage Lawyers in Pittsburgh

About Marriage Law in Pittsburgh, United States:

Marriage law in Pittsburgh, United States governs the legal union between two individuals. It covers aspects such as obtaining a marriage license, requirements for a valid marriage, rights and responsibilities of married couples, and procedures for divorce or annulment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

You may need a lawyer for various reasons related to marriage, such as prenuptial agreements, divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, property division, spousal support, and adoption. A lawyer can provide legal advice, represent you in court, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Local Laws Overview:

In Pittsburgh, United States, couples must obtain a marriage license from the County Clerk's Office before getting married. There are specific requirements for a valid marriage, including age, consent, and capacity. Pennsylvania also recognizes common-law marriages under certain conditions. In case of divorce, Pennsylvania is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the legal requirements for getting married in Pittsburgh?

To get married in Pittsburgh, you must be of legal age (18 years old), obtain a marriage license, and have the consent of both parties if underage.

2. Can I enter into a prenuptial agreement before getting married?

Yes, you can enter into a prenuptial agreement in Pittsburgh to protect your assets in case of divorce.

3. How is property divided in a divorce in Pittsburgh?

Property is divided equitably in Pittsburgh, which means it is divided fairly but not necessarily equally between spouses.

4. What are my rights regarding child custody in Pittsburgh?

In cases of divorce or separation, the court will determine child custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as parental fitness and the child's preference.

5. How can a lawyer help me with my marriage-related legal issues?

A lawyer can provide legal advice, represent you in court, negotiate settlements, draft legal documents, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

6. How can I dissolve a common-law marriage in Pittsburgh?

You must prove the existence of a common-law marriage by meeting certain criteria, such as cohabitation, holding yourselves out as married, and mutual consent to be married. You can then dissolve the common-law marriage through divorce proceedings.

7. What is the process for obtaining a marriage license in Pittsburgh?

To obtain a marriage license in Pittsburgh, you must apply at the County Clerk's Office, pay the required fee, provide identification and other documentation, and wait for the license to be issued.

8. Can same-sex couples legally marry in Pittsburgh?

Yes, same-sex marriage is legal in Pittsburgh, as it is recognized nationwide following the Supreme Court's ruling in 2015.

9. How can I protect my assets in case of divorce?

You can protect your assets by entering into a prenuptial agreement before getting married, which specifies how assets will be divided in case of divorce.

10. What are the grounds for divorce in Pittsburgh?

In Pittsburgh, divorce can be granted based on fault grounds such as adultery, abandonment, cruelty, or imprisonment, or no-fault grounds such as irreconcilable differences or living separately for a certain period of time.

Additional Resources:

For more information on marriage law in Pittsburgh, you can contact the County Clerk's Office or seek advice from local family law attorneys or legal aid organizations.

Next Steps:

If you are in need of legal assistance regarding marriage-related issues in Pittsburgh, consider consulting with a reputable family law attorney who can provide you with personalized advice and representation to protect your rights and interests.