How to File for Divorce in Tennessee
Complete guide to Tennessee divorce process, forms, and requirements for 2025
Steps to File for Divorce in Tennessee
1
Meet Residency Requirements
One spouse must have been a Tennessee resident for at least 6 months before filing.
2
File the Complaint
File a Complaint for Divorce with the Circuit, Chancery, or General Sessions Court. TN allows no-fault (irreconcilable differences) or fault-based grounds.
3
Serve Your Spouse
Your spouse must be served with the complaint. They have 30 days to respond.
4
Complete Disclosures
Exchange financial disclosures including property, debts, and income.
5
Attend Hearings
Attend required hearings. Parenting class required if minor children.
6
Finalize After Waiting Period
Wait 60 days (no children) or 90 days (with children) before finalizing divorce.
Tennessee Divorce Requirements
Residency Requirement
6 Months
One spouse must have been a Tennessee resident for at least 6 months.
Waiting Period
60 or 90 Days
60 days without children, 90 days with minor children from filing.
Filing Fees
$300+
Filing fees vary by county. Generally $300-400. Fee waivers available.
Required Tennessee Divorce Forms
Complaint for Divorce
Primary form to initiate divorce
Summons
Notice to respondent
Financial Disclosure
Income and assets information
Permanent Parenting Plan
Required custody arrangement
Final Decree of Divorce
Final divorce judgment
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in Tennessee
Uncontested Divorce
- Both spouses agree
- Agreed divorce
- 60-90 day wait
- Submit Marital Dissolution Agreement
- Lower costs
- Faster process
Contested Divorce
- Spouses disagree
- Takes longer
- Discovery required
- Multiple hearings
- May need trial
- Higher costs
Important Things to Know
Tennessee follows equitable distribution and requires a Permanent Parenting Plan for divorces involving minor children. Parents must also complete a parenting education class.
Tennessee-Specific Considerations
- Tennessee is an equitable distribution state
- 60-day wait (no children) or 90-day wait (with children)
- 6-month residency requirement
- Parenting class required with children
- Permanent Parenting Plan mandatory
Ready to Start Your Tennessee Divorce?
Splitifi helps you navigate the divorce process with document preparation, expense tracking, and guided support.