Who Gets the Pet in a Pennsylvania Divorce Action?

Pets have become family in our households, so what happens to pets in the event of a divorce?  Many parties often ask this question.

Pa. C.S.A. Section 3502 sets the guidelines for distribution of property as opposed to custody or visitation, which considers pet as personal property.  Since a dog or cat has been declared to be similar to a table or lamp, unfortunately, that is the section to which the court will look when there is a conflict over pet “ownership.” It is not that the courts are unwilling to consider the custody and visitation arrangements, but, unfortunately, the legislature has not given the courts authority to do so.

To read more the article, click here.

Schedule Consultation

    The information found on our website are provided for informational use only and are in no way intended to constitute legal advice. Receipt of any information on our website does not create an attorney-client relationship. Therefore, you should not act or rely upon any information found on this website or otherwise without seeking the advice of an attorney. Family Law Corp. is a private law firm and is not affiliated with any charitable legal services or governmental organization. *No aspect of the above mentioned awards or honors have been approved by the Supreme Court of PA/NJ. Serving Pennsylvania, Philadelphia County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Bucks County, Norristown, Villanova, Ardmore, Bryn Mawr, Paoli, Radnor, King of Prussia, Lafayette Hill, Wayne, Manayunk, Morton, Upper Darby, Drexel Hill, Roxborough, Haverford, Springfield, Havertown, Greater Philadelphia Counties.