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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

  • Mr. Engle was able to explain the laws in PA and got the job done in days.

    “I am an attorney in the state of Washington. I have a family law client who was in desperate need of legal assistance in PA. The case against him was affecting his ability to work. Mr. Engle contacted me as soon as my email was received and helped my client. Mr. Engle was able to explain the laws in PA and got the job done in days. I have never encountered another attorney as eager to help and get the job done. I would highly recommend Mr. Engle to anyone.”

    Pamela

  • He follows up with his clients quickly so you are at ease knowing what the status of your situation is.

    “I can’t begin to say how great Mr. Engle was on SUPER short notice. I’m from out of state and I have to say he was quick to respond and had answers to my questions. It was an INCREDIBLE relief to have him in my corner, I can’t tell you how invaluable that is. He follows up with his clients quickly so you are at ease knowing what the status of your situation is. You are in fantastic and capable hands with Mr. Engle.”

    Jessie C.

  • Your firm was truly a blessing to me and I would recommend anybody needing legal assistance to seek the best with Shaffer and Engle Law Firm.

    “Thank you Jeff Engle and staff for all the hard work on my case. I was very pleased with the service that was provided to me as well as the outcome. Your firm was truly a blessing to me and I would recommend anybody needing legal assistance to seek the best with Shaffer and Engle Law Firm.”

    T.B.

  • You believed in me and gave me the courage to tell the jury my side of the story

    “I can't thank you enough for giving me my life back! Everyone told me I should just plead guilty but I knew I didn't do what they said I did. You believed in me and gave me the courage to tell the jury my side of the story and explain why I signed a confession when I never committed that crime. I was very scared during the trial but I felt good knowing you believed in me. I am a free man today because of you. God bless you.”

    S.G.

  • Very thankful to all of them

    “Working through legal issues can be stressful to say the least. The Firm of Shaffer & Engle was experienced, communicative, thorough and kind. Very thankful to all of them and glad to have had the pleasure to work with such a great team.”

    T.P.