The decision to obtain a divorce can be difficult regardless of whether the two parties are in agreement to end the marriage. To feel more comfortable throughout the process of a divorce, it is important to have the resources and knowledge available to promote understanding, ease tension, and avoid unnecessary stress. Please continue reading to understand what can be expected when filing for a divorce in the State of Tennessee.
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce means that both parties are in agreement as to all the terms of the divorce. This agreement is placed in writing in a document called the “Marital Dissolution Agreement.” This agreement is signed and notarized by both parties and filed with the Court. If there are minor children a parenting plan also needs to be submitted to the Court along with a child support work sheet. This will lay out the days each parent exercises visitation, the amount of child support owed, and each parents rights and responsibilities. There is a mandatory waiting period of 60 days after the filing of the divorce complaint if there are no minor children, and 90 days if there are minor children. The Court also requires that divorcing parents complete a parenting skills class about the effects of divorce on children before a divorce can be finalized.
Hiring an experienced attorney will ensure that the necessary and correct information is placed into your agreement, and that the written agreement is actually what the parties intend to do. Drafting clearly written documents, free of ambiguity, will alleviate potential stress down the road should there be any dispute as to either party’s intent. This will allow you a fresh start without having to worry about whether you missed anything.
Click here for more information on Contested Divorces or Divorce in general.