Free Divorce in Tennessee
Divorce can be emotionally and financially draining, but thankfully, in Tennessee, there are ways to reduce or even eliminate the costs associated with ending a marriage. At Hackett Law Firm, we help individuals navigate divorce—whether you’re seeking legal guidance, need help filing, or are looking for low-cost options. Here's everything you need to know if you're trying to get a free divorce in Tennessee.
Eligibility Criteria
Before pursuing a no-cost divorce, it’s important to understand if you qualify.
Residency Requirements
Tennessee law requires that at least one spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months before filing for divorce. The residency requirement is typically satisfied if the cause for divorce occurred in Tennessee.
Grounds for Divorce
Tennessee allows for both fault and no-fault divorce. For a no-cost route, most people file under irreconcilable differences (a no-fault ground), which makes the process easier and lowers legal fees. At Hackett Law, we can help you determine the most efficient way to go based on your situation.
Filing for Divorce
Knowing what paperwork is needed and what costs are involved can help you avoid unnecessary delays or expenses.
Required Forms
To file for divorce, you’ll need to complete specific forms, including:
Complaint for Divorce
Personal Information Sheet
Marital Dissolution Agreement (if uncontested)
We can help you prepare and file these documents the right way the first time to avoid rejections or added court costs.
Filing Fees
The court filing fees typically range from $200 to $400 to file for divorce. This fee covers the cost of processing your paperwork and starting the legal process. However, if you’re unable to afford this expense, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
To qualify for a waiver, you’ll need to demonstrate financial hardship, usually by submitting a form that details your income, expenses, and any public assistance you receive. If approved, the court may allow you to file your divorce paperwork without paying upfront fees.
Free Legal Resources
You don’t have to go through this process alone. Several organizations offer assistance at little to no cost:
Nonprofit Organizations
Groups like the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services (TALS) and local domestic violence shelters provide support for low-income individuals seeking divorce.
Legal Aid Services
Legal Aid of East Tennessee and other regional services offer free representation or guidance for qualifying residents. Hackett Law can help you go through these resources and find out what services might be available to you.
Mediation Options
Going to court isn’t the only way to settle a divorce. Mediation can be a much smoother and less stressful option. Instead of battling it out in front of a judge, you and your spouse work through your issues with the help of a neutral third party.
Benefits of Mediation
Mediation is usually faster and far less expensive than a drawn-out court case. It also encourages cooperation, which can make a big difference—especially if you’re co-parenting. Plus, you have more control over the outcome rather than leaving everything in the hands of a judge.
Finding a Mediator
Many courts offer free or income-based mediation programs, and there are also private mediators who charge reasonable rates. At Hackett Law, we can help you explore your options and connect you with a certified mediator who makes sense for your situation and your budget.
DIY Divorce Process
If your divorce is uncontested, you may be able to handle it yourself.
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather necessary documents
Complete the required court forms
File with your local circuit or chancery court
Serve your spouse
Attend final hearing (if needed)
Hackett Law can review your DIY paperwork before submission to ensure everything is complete and compliant with the law.
Common Pitfalls
Many people who try to file for divorce on their own end up missing important details—like how to fairly divide property or clearly outline custody arrangements. These oversights might not seem like a big deal at first but can lead to major headaches down the road. If you're considering a DIY divorce, it's a good idea to at least get some guidance upfront. A quick, affordable consultation can help you avoid common mistakes and make sure everything’s done right the first time.
Court Procedures
Once you’ve filed your divorce papers, there are a few important steps that need to happen before everything is finalized.
Court Appearance
In many uncontested cases—where both parties agree on the terms—you may only need to appear briefly in court. This is usually a quick session where the judge confirms everything is in order and asks a few basic questions.
Finalizing the Divorce
Tennessee law requires a 60- to 90-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized (depending on whether children are involved). After that, if everything is complete and accurate, the judge can issue a final divorce decree. It’s important to stay on top of deadlines and paperwork during this time. Having someone experienced walk you through the process—like the team here at Hackett Law—can help make sure everything goes smoothly and nothing gets overlooked.
Post-Divorce Matters
Even after the paperwork is filed, there are a few key issues that need to be sorted out before your divorce is complete—especially if kids or shared property are involved.
Child Custody Issues
In Tennessee, the court always puts the child’s best interests first. Whether your divorce is free, low-cost, or full-service, a comprehensive parenting plan is required. This plan outlines custody, visitation, decision-making, and more. It’s not something to take lightly, and Hackett Law can help you draft a plan that’s clear, fair, and court-approved.
Division of Assets
Dividing property, money, and debts isn’t just about who gets what—it’s about protecting your future. Even if you and your spouse agree on most things, it’s important to document everything properly. We can help you make sure the terms are fair, legally enforceable, and won’t come back to cause problems later.
Financial Considerations
Getting a divorce doesn’t have to drain your bank account.
Cost-Saving Tips
File jointly to avoid serving fees
Use simplified forms when possible
Apply for fee waivers
Managing Expenses
Hackett Law offers affordable flat-fee packages and payment plans to make legal help more accessible.
Support Systems
Don’t underestimate the importance of emotional and community support.
Emotional Support
Consider seeking support groups or counseling to help manage the emotional toll of divorce. A clear mind leads to better decisions.
Community Resources
Local churches, nonprofits, and government programs can offer temporary assistance with housing, food, and more during your transition. We can connect you with organizations that support our clients.
Conclusion
Getting a free or low-cost divorce in Tennessee is possible—but understanding and going through the process on your own can be overwhelming. From filing the right forms to handling custody, property, and court procedures, there are a lot of moving parts. That’s where the right legal support can make all the difference.
Our team is here to help you avoid costly mistakes, protect your rights, and move through the process with less stress. Whether you just need help understanding your options, preparing paperwork, or guiding you through mediation or court—we’ve got your back.
Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and discover the most affordable and effective path forward.