The court, in furtherance of convenience or to avoid prejudice, may on its own motion or on motion of any party order a separate trial of any cause of action or claim or of any number of causes of action or claims.
Rule 1920.16.Severance of Actions and Claims.
Last verified June 30, 2026
In one sentenceRule 1920.16 lets the court order a separate trial of any cause of action or claim in a divorce case to promote convenience or avoid prejudice.
Full Text of Rule 1920.16
Plain-English Summary
A divorce can carry several claims that are best tried apart. This rule lets the court, on its own or a party's motion, order a separate trial of any cause of action or claim — the divorce itself, equitable division, alimony — to further convenience or avoid prejudice. Severance lets the court resolve the divorce while economic claims continue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the divorce be decided separately from the financial claims?
Yes. The court may sever and try separately any cause of action or claim.
Source & verification. Rule text, the Official Note, and the amendment
history are reproduced verbatim from the Pennsylvania Code, Title 231, the official compilation
of rules adopted by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Last verified June 30, 2026. ·
Official text
Also known as: sever divorce claimsseparate trial divorcebifurcate divorce