Tennessee allows both no-fault (irreconcilable differences) and fault-based divorce. An uncontested, agreed divorce is faster and less expensive; a contested one goes through the court. Either way, a divorce resolves property and debt, a parenting plan and child support if you have children, and whether alimony applies. Jernigan Law guides Middle Tennessee families through all of it.
Contested vs. uncontested divorce
An uncontested divorce means you and your spouse agree on the major issues — property, debt, parenting, and support. It tends to be faster and less expensive. A contested divorce means you disagree on one or more of those, so the court may get involved. Many cases start out contested and settle along the way.
What a divorce actually resolves
Every divorce touches the same core questions: dividing property and debt, a parenting plan and child support if you have children, and whether alimony applies. We help you understand each one and push toward a resolution that protects what matters most to you.
Common questions
How long does a divorce take in Tennessee?
Tennessee imposes a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized, and the real timeline depends on whether the case is contested, whether children are involved, and the court's schedule. We'll give you a realistic estimate for your situation.
Do I have to prove fault?
No. Tennessee allows a no-fault divorce on grounds of irreconcilable differences when both spouses agree. Fault grounds exist and can matter in some cases, but many divorces proceed without proving wrongdoing.
Other practice areas
Serving these counties
This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship.