Philadelphia Family Law Lawyer
Few moments in life are as exhausting as navigating the end of a marriage or a custody battle, and unlike a 4th-and-goal at Lincoln Financial Field, there’s no playbook to tell you what comes next. From arguments over assets to the middle-of-the-night worry over your kids, the uncertainty can feel like a punch from Rocky. But this is Philadelphia: we don’t back down when things get tough, and you don’t have to face this fight alone. Whether you’re trying to protect your finances, divide up a family business, or figure out who gets the kids on Sunday game days, having the right team in your corner makes all the difference.
When your life is undergoing a seismic shift, you have every right to fight for your future, your peace of mind, and your bond with your children. At Graff & Associates, our family law attorneys bring true Philly grit, sharp legal strategy, and deep compassion to every case. We know the local courts inside and out, and we’re ready to stand by your side and secure the fresh start you deserve.
Our family law practice areas
The attorneys at Graff & Associates have decades of experience guiding families through difficult transitions with clarity and compassion. These are just a few of the many types of cases we handle regularly.
Divorce
Ending a marriage is rarely simple, whether it’s amicable or hotly contested. Our attorneys help clients navigate every step of the divorce process – from filing and negotiation to trial when necessary – while protecting their rights and working toward a resolution that lets them move forward with confidence.
Child custody and support
Nothing matters more than your children. We help parents establish custody and visitation arrangements that serve their children’s best interests, and we work to secure fair child support so that your kids have the stability and resources they need. When circumstances change, we also help clients modify existing custody and support orders.
Property and asset division
Dividing a lifetime of shared assets and debts is one of the most contentious parts of any divorce. Philadelphia follows the principle of equitable distribution, and our attorneys fight to ensure that marital property, including homes, retirement accounts, businesses, and investments, is divided fairly and that your financial future is protected.
Protection from abuse (PFA)
Your safety and the safety of your family come first. If you or your children are facing threats, harassment, or domestic violence, our attorneys can help you obtain a Protection from Abuse order quickly and stand by your side throughout the process to keep you protected.
Our family law practice areas
The attorneys at Graff & Associates have decades of experience guiding families through difficult transitions with clarity and compassion. These are just a few of the many types of cases we handle regularly.
Divorce
Ending a marriage is rarely simple, whether it’s amicable or hotly contested. Our attorneys help clients navigate every step of the divorce process — from filing and negotiation to trial when necessary — while protecting their rights and working toward a resolution that lets them move forward with confidence.
Child custody and support
Nothing matters more than your children. We help parents establish custody and visitation arrangements that serve their children’s best interests, and we work to secure fair child support so that your kids have the stability and resources they need. When circumstances change, we also help clients modify existing custody and support orders.
Property and asset division
Dividing a lifetime of shared assets and debts is one of the most contentious parts of any divorce. Pennsylvania follows the principle of equitable distribution, and our attorneys fight to ensure that marital property, including homes, retirement accounts, businesses, and investments, is divided fairly and that your financial future is protected.
Protection from abuse (PFA)
Your safety and the safety of your family come first. If you or your children are facing threats, harassment, or domestic violence, our attorneys can help you obtain a Protection from Abuse order quickly and stand by your side throughout the process to keep you protected.
If you’re searching for a Philadelphia family law lawyer, Graff & Associates knows both the law and the local landscape. Our team regularly handles cases before the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Family Division, at the Family Court building on Arch Street in Center City, and we understand how the city’s judges, custody masters, and family court procedures can shape the outcome of your case. From Center City to the Northeast, South Philadelphia to Chestnut Hill and Manayunk, we’re proud to help Philadelphia families protect what matters most. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions about Family Law in Philadelphia County
How long does a divorce take in Philly?
An uncontested, mutual-consent divorce in all areas of Pennsylvania can be finalized in as little as 90 days after both spouses sign the required consents, though the process often takes longer in practice. Contested divorces, where spouses disagree on property division, custody, or support, can take a year or more, depending on the complexity of the issues and the caseload of the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Family Division.
How is child custody decided in Philadelphia?
Pennsylvania courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child, weighing statutory factors such as each parent’s role in daily care, the child’s relationships, and the ability to provide a stable environment. There is no automatic preference for mothers or fathers. In Philadelphia, contested custody cases are often first heard by a custody master before proceeding to a judge, and parents are typically required to participate in a parenting education program.
How much does a family law attorney cost in Philadelphia?
The cost depends on the complexity of your case and whether it is contested. Many family law matters are billed at an hourly rate with an upfront retainer, while some straightforward services may be handled for a flat fee. At Graff & Associates, we discuss fees openly during your consultation so you understand your options before moving forward.
Where do I file for a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order in Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, PFA petitions are filed with the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas, and a temporary order may be granted the same day. You are not required to have a lawyer, but an attorney can help you present evidence, prepare for the final hearing, and make sure your order provides the protection you and your children need.
I had a most difficult and a complex case, requiring research and full understanding of the law and the involved personalities. We received a settlement of our case that exceeded our expectations
Don
I had an excellent experience with Graff & Associates Law Firm during my divorce process. From the very beginning, the team to include Leesa, Kate, and attorney Lindsay were professional , compassionate, and highly knowledgeable. They kept me informed every step of the process, answered all of my questions promptly, and truly made a difficult situation much less stressful. Leesa was the first contact/interaction I had with the law firm and the positive interaction is the reason why I chose Graff & Associates.
Denaire
Caren and her staff made a divorce easy !!!! I couldn’t ask for a better lawyer. It was easy, quick and painless. I highly recommend the whole staff. Grateful for her experience and expertise. Caren made a tough situation bearable.
Debbie