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Tennessee divorce law is very clear – equitable distribution of marital property does not mean equal distribution. Equal division describes awarding 50% to each spouse, also described as a 50/50 split. But it is not unusual for divisions (settlements and trial results) to be close to a 50/50 split.

To get a no-fault divorce in Tennessee, you need to state in the Petition for Divorce that “there are irreconcilable differences between the parties.” You and your spouse must have a written agreement as to property division, and child custody and support.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Divorce in Tennessee? In Tennessee, most divorces last two months to six months. But it could take 18 months or two years if the divorce is hotly contested or if the estate has complex assets which may need expert valuation. Divorce can take even longer in the rare case.

As in other states, Tennessee judges treat a petitioner and a defendant equally fairly. Therefore, officially, it makes no difference which spouse initiates a divorce. Yet, filing for divorce first in TN can bring several benefits that we will discuss below.

In Tennessee, uncontested divorce (known as a simplified or agreed divorce) is the most efficient and cost-effective option, often taking 60-90 days. You and your spouse must agree on all aspects of the divorce and not require the assistance of a judge in a court of law.

Tennessee law requires a mandatory waiting period, beginning when the complaint for divorce is filed, before a divorce can be granted for any reason. In cases where the parties have no children, the waiting period is sixty (60) days, and in cases with children the waiting period is ninety (90) days.

Each Tennessee county court charges a different filing fee, which generally falls into the $200-$400 range. In Knox County Chancery Court, the minimum filing fee for an Agreed (Uncontested) Divorce is $216.50.

Do I have to go to court for a Tennessee divorce? Not always. If the parties can reach an agreement on all issues, they will “settle.” A settlement can be reached between the parties by exchanging settlement agreements or at mediation. If a settlement is reached, only one spouse will go to court for the final hearing.

In Tennessee, uncontested divorce (known as a simplified or agreed divorce) is the most efficient and cost-effective option, often taking 60-90 days. You and your spouse must agree on all aspects of the divorce and not require the assistance of a judge in a court of law.

In limited circumstances, it is possible to get an “agreed divorce” in Tennessee without hiring an attorney. The Tennessee Supreme Court has approved divorce forms that, if properly completed, must be accepted by all Tennessee courts that hear divorce cases.