A divorce decree is a legal document signed by the judge that officially terminates the marriage. The divorce decree typically includes the judge’s ruling on all matters related to the marriage and any minor children—including division of marital or community property, payment of marital or community debts, spousal support, child custody, child visitation, child support, any obligation to provide health insurance for minor children, and the payment of extracurricular expenses for minor children.

These determinations or rulings set forth in the divorce decree become legally enforceable obligations when the judge signs the divorce decree—and may be enforced by further legal action in the court if one or both of the former spouses fail to comply with the terms of the divorce decree.

In Pennsylvania, a divorce decree is the final legal document that officially ends a marriage. It is issued by a judge after all matters related to the divorce have been resolved, either through mutual agreement by the parties or by a court decision. The decree includes the division of marital property and debts, alimony (also known as spousal support), and if applicable, matters concerning child custody, visitation rights, child support, health insurance for minor children, and payment for extracurricular activities. Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the terms outlined become legally binding and enforceable. If either party fails to comply with the terms of the decree, the other party may take legal action to enforce the order. This could involve returning to court to seek enforcement, which may result in legal penalties for the non-compliant party, such as fines or even jail time for contempt of court.