Divorce Attorney in Shelby County, Tennessee

No matter the circumstances, facing a divorce is never easy. Issues such as property and asset division, child custody and support, moving, and more can be overwhelming. These decisions can have lasting effects; so if you're thinking about or already going through a divorce, you deserve to understand your rights and options. I'm here to help you take your next steps forward and help you make the best decisions for your future.

Do I Need an Attorney to Get a Divorce?

While it's legally possible to go through a divorce without an attorney, representing yourself (pro se) can be a challenge, especially if your spouse has legal representation. Dealing with court filings and legal proceedings without professional help can put you at way behind where you want to be. An experienced lawyer provides necessary guidance, protecting your rights and fighting for your best outcome

How I Can Help

I've dedicated my career to serving clients in Shelby County, Tennessee, and throughout the area. My practice is built on a foundation of trust, ethics, and an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for my clients. With a J.D. from the University of Richmond School of Law and an M.B.A. from the University of Memphis, I'm equipped to handle a broad spectrum of legal matters.

I firmly believe in empowering you and working to minimize or even eliminate any potential legal hurdles. When it comes to divorce cases, I'm your advocate, your counselor, and your guide. My approach is to work closely with you to understand your desired results and to develop a strategy tailored to your specific needs.

I'll fight for your rights, provide accurate representation, and ensure you never feel alone in your legal journey. Trust me to be by your side and help you overcome the legal challenges of divorce.

Divorce in Tennessee

In Tennessee, we have two main types of divorce: contested and uncontested. A contested divorce happens when spouses can't agree on crucial matters like property division, child custody, or alimony. These divorces often require litigation, making them more time-consuming and costly.

On the flip side, an uncontested divorce occurs when both parties reach an agreement on all aspects of the divorce. This process is generally faster, less expensive, and less stressful. Regardless of the type of divorce you're facing, I'm here to help you navigate the process and ensure your rights are protected.

Eligibility to File for Divorce in Tennessee

To file for divorce in Tennessee, which follows a fault-based divorce law, you or your spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months prior to filing.

You also need to file in the correct county, generally where you or your spouse live, or where you both lived when you decided to divorce.

Specific grounds for divorce also need to be established, but it doesn't have to be anything beyond "irreconcilable differences."

With the right legal guidance, you can approach this process with confidence and clarity.

The Divorce Process in Tennessee

The divorce process in Tennessee begins with the filing of a complaint for divorce in the appropriate county court. This legal document sets forth the grounds for divorce and the terms you are seeking, including property division, child custody, support, and alimony. Once filed, the non-filing spouse is served with the divorce papers and has the opportunity to respond.

If the divorce is uncontested, the process can move quickly with both parties working together to formalize a marital dissolution agreement. This agreement covers all aspects of the divorce and must be approved by the court.

In contested divorces, the process becomes more complex and may involve mediation, discovery – the exchange of information pertaining to the marriage – and court hearings. The court may issue temporary orders that outline responsibilities for both parties during the divorce process. If spouses are unable to agree, the case will go to trial, where a judge will make determinations on all disputed issues. After the court’s final decision, both parties must follow the terms. The duration and specific steps of your divorce process can vary widely depending on the individual circumstances and level of agreement between you and your spouse.

How Long Does a Divorce Take?

The duration of a divorce in Tennessee can vary widely. Factors such as the complexity of the issues at hand and the level of cooperation between the spouses can influence the timeline. On average, a divorce can take anywhere from several months to over a year to finalize. Having me by your side can help expedite the process and ensure your rights are safeguarded.

Divorce Attorney in Shelby County, Tennessee

If you're facing a divorce in Shelby County, Tennessee, remember that you don't have to go through this alone. With my extensive experience in family law and divorce cases, I can handle even the most complex situations. Take the first step towards a brighter future. Call me at (901) 265-2656 or email me at theresa.childress@gmail.com. Let's fight for this together, with resilience and confidence.