An uncontested divorce, commonly referred to as an agreed divorce in Tennessee, can save you time and money. It can also reduce stress levels and make the transition easier especially when you share minor children. An agreed divorce where you and your spouse respectfully collaborate to create a solid co-parenting foundation can make a positive difference for your children.
Since the law does not require you to hire a divorce attorney, you may be tempted to skip consulting one for your uncontested divorce. However, you should always work with a reputable attorney no matter how simple your divorce may seem.
You Can Receive an Initial Evaluation of Your Case Before Starting the Process
If you are considering divorce, even an uncontested one, you should consult an attorney to discuss your case. This helps you understand all the requirements to pursue an agreed divorce in Tennessee, especially since the process is different whether you and your spouse share children.
In case you do not qualify for an uncontested divorce for any reason, like a current pregnancy, your lawyer can educate you on the contested divorce process and make recommendations to make the process as easy as possible for all parties involved.
In certain cases, your lawyer may recommend avoiding an uncontested divorce if there was a history of domestic violence or you suspect your spouse may be hiding assets.
Your Attorney Can Guide You Through the Process
Although a simpler process, an uncontested divorce still has residency requirements and specific paperwork to provide before you and your spouse can attend a hearing with a judge to obtain approval of your petition.
Understanding what forms to fill out and what deadlines to meet can streamline the process and help you secure the positive outcome you and your spouse are looking for.
Your Attorney Can Draft and Review Your Agreements
In an uncontested divorce, both parties must agree on all aspects of the termination of their marriage such as:
- Division and distribution of marital property, assets, and debts
- Spousal support
- Child physical and legal custody
- Visitation schedules
- Child support
Although you and your spouse may be well-meaning, having an attorney draft and/or review the proposed agreement you have reached can help protect your rights and interests. A divorce lawyer brings a detailed understanding of the law and can point out if they notice that part of an agreement is not beneficial for one of the spouses.
Your Lawyer Can Recommend Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods
If both spouses agree to enter an uncontested divorce but cannot agree on all aspects of the dissolution of marriage, your lawyer can recommend alternative dispute resolution methods to help you reach your goals outside of the courtroom.
Your lawyer may recommend mediation where a neutral third party helps you communicate with your spouse. If you would rather just meet with your spouse and your respective lawyers, collaborative law may be an appropriate fit for you.
If you realize that an uncontested divorce may not be adequate for your situation during the process, your attorney can also discuss what other options you have and how to change the terms of the divorce.
Choose Conner & Roberts, PLLC for Your Uncontested Divorce in Chattanooga
Our team has over 40 years of combined divorce and family law experience and we are committed to protecting your rights and future. Our priority is to help you reach a fair agreement that can set you up for success after your divorce. We offer free consultations to assess your situation and discuss what your options are and whether an uncontested divorce is appropriate for your specific needs and goals.
We can accompany you at every step of the divorce process and carefully draft and review agreements to help you secure a judge’s approval. You can expect compassionate and personalized representation and clear communication. Our attorneys work directly with our clients.
Contact Conner & Roberts, PLLC today at (423) 299-4489 to schedule a free consultation with one of our divorce attorneys in Chattanooga!