Though your spouse’s refusal to respond to your divorce petition can delay the divorce process, it will not prevent it completely. You can obtain a divorce without their signature, and a Pittsburgh contest divorce attorney can help along the way. However, there is no reason to pause your divorce or wait excessive periods of time for your spouse to sign divorce papers. That is, there are options and paths forward for divorce even when your spouse will not consent to the divorce or sign the divorce paperwork. You do not actually need your spouse's signature in order to get a divorce, although it can expedite things. If you want to get divorced without your spouse's consent, a no-fault divorce may be an easier option. Can I get a divorce if my spouse refuses to sign the divorce papers? You may have to fulfill a statutory waiting period to obtain a divorce, such as a one-year separation. In the State of New York, there are two options for obtaining a divorce without your spouse’s consent. However, there are certain circumstances under which a person is able to obtain a divorce without the consent of the other partner. That's because, in a no-fault divorce, the divorce papers do not name either of you as the party responsible for ending your marriage. Divorce without spouse’s address (yes, when you do not know the location of your spouse, the only option sometimes is to get a default judgment divorce) Divorce without spouse signature (again, it is true that in a default judgment divorce, your husband or wife will not need to sign your divorce papers) They are "no signature required" divorce and divorce by publication . In which case, the partner who wants to divorce may be able to get the divorce without the consent of the other. You Don’t Always Need Your Spouse’s Signature to Obtain a Divorce There is good news for married individuals in Pennsylvania who wish to end their marriage. A spouse's signature is only required in cases where both parties agree to the terms and conditions of the divorce. If your spouse does not cooperate or does not file an answer, Colorado court can grant you a default judgement, which could include granting your custody and property requests if they are reasonable. If your spouse does not agree to the divorce or refuses to sign the papers, there is another approach you can take.