Chattanooga Divorce Attorney
Protecting Your Rights & Interests Throughout the Divorce Process in Chatanooga, TN
When facing the difficult decision to end a marriage, it's crucial to have the support and expertise of a compassionate and knowledgeable divorce lawyer by your side. At Speek, Turner, & Newkirk PLLC, we provide comprehensive family law services to meet the needs of our clients.
Whether you are going through a contested or uncontested divorce, our experienced Chattanooga divorce lawyers can help. We understand the legal complexities of divorce and can provide sound advice and guidance throughout the process.
Call (423) 799-3030 or fill out our online contact form today to learn how our firm can help you.
Tennessee Divorce Laws
Tennessee allows for both fault-based and no-fault divorces. The no-fault ground for divorce is "irreconcilable differences," which means that there has been a breakdown of the marital relationship with no hope of reconciliation. Fault-based grounds for divorce include adultery, abandonment, cruel treatment, drug/alcohol addiction, and inappropriate marital conduct.
To file for divorce in Tennessee, either you or your spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months prior to filing. Additionally, you or your spouse must have lived in the county where you plan to file for divorce for at least 90 days.
Tennessee has a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. If you have no minor children, the waiting period is 60 days from the date of filing. However, if you have minor children, the waiting period is 90 days.
Contested Divorce vs Uncontested Divorce
There are two main types of divorce: contested divorce and uncontested divorce. A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot reach an agreement on one or more significant matters related to their divorce (e.g., child custody, child support, property division, spousal support, etc.), while an uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses are in agreement on all significant issues related to their divorce.
In a contested divorce, the spouses typically need to go through a more formal legal process, involving court hearings and potentially a trial. Each spouse may hire their own attorney to represent their interests.
The court will ultimately decide on the contested issues if the spouses cannot reach a settlement through negotiation, mediation, or alternative dispute resolution methods. The court's decision will be legally binding.
In an uncontested divorce, the spouses can simplify the process by working together to create a settlement agreement that addresses all relevant matters. Once the settlement agreement is finalized, it is submitted to the court for approval. If the court finds the agreement fair and reasonable, it will issue a divorce decree, finalizing the divorce.
No matter what type of divorce you are involved in, having an experienced lawyer on your side can ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire process. An attorney can handle all the paperwork, meet all the deadlines, and obtain the most favorable outcome in your case.
Let Our Firm Help You Start a New Chapter in Life Today!
If you are looking for a Chattanooga divorce lawyer, look no further than Speek, Turner, & Newkirk PLLC. Our experienced legal team is here to provide you with the best possible legal advice and representation. We understand that divorce is a difficult process and we are here to help you through it.
Our Chattanooga divorce attorneys have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the legal process of divorce. We are committed to providing personalized legal advice and support throughout the entire process. We understand that divorce is a difficult and emotional process and we strive to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Contact us today for an initial consultation to discuss your divorce needs.
