With the development of no-fault, uncontested divorce has come the notion that it's become too easy to get divorced. But experienced family law attorneys in Pennsylvania know that's not true. So do the courts who oversee the final decisions in the case. The mere availability of simple divorce does not mean there's no possibility of unforeseen glitches.

Even though every divorce is different, there are common aspects that tend to apply across the board. One of these specifically deals with the difficulty and necessity of a couple developing a plan for parenting when minor children are involved. The challenge this effort presents was raised recently by a family court judge in another state.

As she wisely notes, the breakup of the marriage creates huge tensions. Often the reality that costs are being doubled because of the split of households comes as a surprise. The situation around school for the children - where they will go, which parent will be responsible for what, when -- can cause major emotional eruptions. Sometimes all the plans can break down in the face of unexpected developments, especially at back-to-school time. And, the judge observes, that can mean more negotiating, more legal involvement, and added legal expense.

She says that the truth of the matter is that communications between parents is critical. She advises couples to be thorough and pragmatic about assessing just what the impact is going to be on the family in terms of money, housing, utilities, school and, if appropriate, tuitions. And she says children should be allowed to have a seat at the table in the planning process.

What this all goes to point out is that while the processes for seeking and obtaining a no-fault divorce have been streamlined, it doesn't mean they are not without their possible hitches. Avoiding them is part of the experienced attorney can deliver, possibly helping avoid undue expense.

Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch, "Judge says parents must talk before, even more after, divorce," Janice Denham, Aug. 30, 2011