Uncontested Divorce in Tennessee: The Basics

What is an uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce is one where both spouses agree to the divorce and to all of its terms, without a trial. In Tennessee the grounds are irreconcilable differences — a “no-fault” divorce. You both agree the marriage can’t be saved, and neither of you has to prove the other did anything wrong.

If you can’t agree on everything, the divorce is contested. Contested divorces involve court hearings and legal procedures, so they can’t be done online.

What is a Marital Dissolution Agreement?

A Marital Dissolution Agreement (MDA) is the written agreement that spells out the terms of your divorce. Tennessee requires one for an uncontested divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences. It usually covers:

• How your property is divided
• Who pays which debts
• Whether either spouse pays spousal support
• Restoring a former name, if wanted

Because everything is in writing, there’s no confusion later about what was agreed.

How are property and debts divided?

You and your spouse decide. The court will almost always approve the division in your agreement, as long as it’s fair and reasonable and nobody was pressured into it.

How long does it take?

Tennessee has a mandatory 60-day waiting period for couples without minor children, counted from the day the papers are filed. With our service the whole process usually takes less than 90 days from when the attorney receives your signed papers.