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Harrisburg Separation Lawyers

Providing Caring & Capable Representation

Many clients who come to us are seeking a legal separation as an initial step before a divorce. In Pennsylvania, divorce and separation laws are very different from other states’. Physical separation alone is not a sufficient requirement here in Pennsylvania.

At Shaffer & Engle, we understand that these laws can be very confusing, especially during such a stressful time in your life. Our Harrisburg separation attorneys are here to support you and provide you with the sound legal guidance you deserve.

Reach out to us today at (717) 268-4287 to schedule a confidential consultation with our Harrisburg separation attorneys.

Requirements for Legal Separation in Dauphin County

The term "separate and apart" is intended to require a clear intention to separate at the beginning of the physical separation. Under statute and case law, a separation requires that one or both parties must express an intention to separate, and you and your spouse must not cohabitate.

The party who wants to separate must clearly communicate to the other party that the physical separation is an intention to end the marriage. This is to prevent any other times spent apart being confused with the intent to separate or divorce. It is important to understand that the court may consider a number of factors regarding whether you and your spouse are really living separately (or apart under the same roof).

The factors that may be considered include:

  • If the spouses live in separate bedrooms
  • Whether the spouses are eating separately
  • Whether the wife provides domestic services
  • If there are any social activities they do together
  • If there is any communication between the spouses
  • If there any sexual relationship between the spouses

Seek Clarity about Separation

At Shaffer & Engle, our Harrisburg separation lawyers know that legal separation and the laws in Pennsylvania can be confusing. We can help answer your questions and guide you every step of the way through the separation process. You can also rely on us to assist you with drafting a separation agreement between you and your spouse to identify the duties and responsibilities each party has.

To make an appointment or to learn how our firm can protect you, call us at (717) 268-4287. We serve clients throughout Dauphin County.

What Our
clients Have to Say

  • He treats you with respect, has a great personality, keeps you informed, makes you feel comfortable, and takes time to answer any questions.

    “Hired the Law Office to handle the new Adam Walsh Act law going into effect December 20, 2012. State of PA and State Police was requiring that I register under the new law. Not only required to register but also changing my Tier level from Tier 1 to Tier Pending. Originally was required to register as a Tier 1 for 10 years but under the new law they were requiring to register for life. Attorney Engle took the case and fought from the day he was hired until the case was resolved. This is the only Law Firm I have dealt with that work diligently and kept us well informed throughout the case. Our case Won on two levels: 1. I am no longer required to register under the new Adam Walsh Act. 2. Successfully removed my name from the Sex Offender Registry. I am no longer listed on State or Federal Megan Law web site. I have worked with several Law firms over the past 10 years and Attorney Engle is the best Attorney. He treats you with respect, has a great personality, keeps you informed, makes you feel comfortable, and takes time to answer any questions. He fought for my rights where not too many attorneys out there will. AND he WON our case against the State Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Police. I will recommend this Law Firm to anyone that need legal representation no matter what the case might be. Big or small this is the law firm you want to hire. I cannot nor can anyone predict the same outcome but they will fight for your best interest.”

    Former client

  • Mr. Engle took my matter as if it were his own and followed through to the end.

    “I contacted Mr. Engle back in August. My custody case had originated in Delaware in 2013 and was the final hearing was held in May of 2015. After the other party objected DE having jurisdiction, he took matters into his own hands and got PA involved - where he lives. In a panic I called Mr. Engle after being referred to him by my DE attorney. Even though I wasn't a client and I did not have an appointment scheduled, Mr Engle took the time out to hear the background information, calm me down and come to, what I thought, was a good conclusion. Fast forward 4 months later and every email, phone call and frantic visit to his office was greeted with kindness and patience...and if he was unavailable, his staff showed the same warm professionalism. I could be sure that I would hear back from him within the same business day - sometimes even on his downtime after hours - or first thing in the morning. Mr. Engle took my matter as if it were his own and followed through to the end. I would not hesitate to call on Mr. Engle again if the occasion ever arose.”

    Rebekah

  • His knowledge and planning has delivered desired results.

    “Jeff's advice is accurate. His knowledge and planning has delivered desired results. His responses and communications are above expectations. Everyone at Shaffer and Engle law are very helpful. I am glad to have met Jeff and his team. Thanks for your Help.”

    Curtis

  • Jeff provided us with clear advice and immediate responses to my multitude of questions and concerns.

    “Jeff provided us with clear advice and immediate responses to my multitude of questions and concerns. We are grateful our case is finally settled and would certainly recommend him.”

    Former Client

  • He took the time to explain the process, understand the facts of my case and provide suggestions like retaining a private investigator.

    “I came to Shaffer & Engle Law Offices searching for hope after I entered a plea in my criminal case. I had a false allegation filed against me for a sexual offense that I did not commit. I was involved with another lawyer for 2 ½ years, when it came down to day before court we felt he was not prepared to represent me. I either took the plea of "Nolo Contendere" or went to jail the day of the trial. I felt trapped. I had this allegation against me and I was innocent. I met with the Attorney Engle. He took the time to explain the process, understand the facts of my case and provide suggestions like retaining a private investigator. He offered to represent me and quickly moved to withdraw my guilty plea. That was granted by the court and we proceeded to prepare for trial. They uncovered many things that our other lawyer did not bother to investigate. They met with character witnesses after hours to make sure my defense would be solid. Long story short, the DA in my case withdrew the charges. I went from a convicted man to completely being vindicated. Shaffer and Engle Law Offices also were able to assist me in another matter relating to the criminal case, but in civil court. The same results, all charges were dismissed. I appreciate the work they did, their prompt service, care and attention they showed to me and my family. I found their services to be affordable when compared to what they did for me. I would highly recommend them for anyone charged with a crime that they did not do.”

    JH