Going through a divorce can be a daunting experience. Along with the emotional and financial challenges it brings, there’s often uncertainty about the future — particularly when it comes to starting the legal process in family law court. If you’ve decided to end your marriage, it’s helpful to know what you can expect to happen next so you’re better prepared to make decisions and avoid stressful delays. While every situation is unique, here’s an overview of the general steps you’ll take to obtain a divorce in Tennessee.

What to Expect During Divorce Proceedings

1. Determining Grounds

First, you must decide on what grounds you’re seeking a divorce. Tennessee family law recognizes several legal grounds for terminating a union.

For an uncontested divorce, you may cite irreconcilable differences. If your divorce is contested, you must cite one of the approved fault-based grounds, such as adultery, abandonment, incarceration, cruel and inhuman treatment, and habitual substance abuse.

2. Filing the Complaint & Receiving a Response

Next, your lawyer will file a Complaint for Divorce with the appropriate court. This will initiate the divorce proceedings, and you and your spouse will both be given specific orders.

These might include not harassing or threatening the other party, disposing of or hiding marital property, or relocating minor children outside of the state.

Once the divorce petition is submitted, your spouse will be served and given 30 days to file an answer.

3. Attending a Parenting Seminar

Tennessee law requires parents of minor children to attend a four-hour, court-approved Parent Educational Seminar that discusses how to help kids cope with their feelings.

It also provides more details about the legal process and alternative dispute resolutions. After completing the class, you’ll receive a certificate to file with the court.

4. Negotiating a Settlement

If you’re pursuing an uncontested divorce, you and your spouse must agree on all the terms and conditions of your settlement. This means you’ll need to agree on a child custody and visitation arrangement, child support amount, and how to divide your assets and debts.

You may handle negotiations on your own or enter mediation to help resolve any conflicts you have.

5. Going to Trial

Finally, if you can’t agree or your divorce is contested, your case will go to court. It will be up to a judge to settle unresolved issues upon hearing evidence presented by both sides. Once they’ve made a ruling, a divorce decree will be granted.

 

Before you begin the process of ending your marriage, reach out to the family law attorneys at Looney, Looney & Chadwell, PLLC to explore your legal options. They’ll provide you with sound advice and invaluable guidance to help your divorce proceedings go as smoothly as possible. The firm has been representing Cumberland County, TN, residents for over 80 years and is qualified to fight for your rights through negotiations or litigation. Call (931) 484-7569 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online for more information on the family law services they provide.