When both you and your spouse agree that you want to end your marriage, you can avoid expensive legal costs through an agreed divorce. However, you need more than just mutual agreement to file an agreed divorce in Tennessee.
Benefits of an agreed divorce
Agreed divorces in Tennessee are less expensive because there is less litigation involved. You aren’t required to consult with a lawyer when you get an agreed divorce. There are fewer court papers to fill out as well.
Who qualifies for an agreed divorce?
In order to file for an agreed divorce in Tennessee, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements. You can’t have children who are under the age of 18, disabled or in high school.
State law requires that you have residency in Tennessee at the time you agree with your spouse to divorce. If one of you has residency in Tennessee within the past six months, you can meet the residency requirement this way.
Couples who are receiving retirement benefits aren’t eligible for an agreed divorce. If you own buildings, land or a business together, then you don’t qualify for filing an agreed divorce either.
What about abuse?
A common question about agreed divorces is whether you can get an agreed divorce if you are in an abusive relationship. Tennessee permits agreed divorces in which abuse occurred as long as you meet all of the other eligibility criteria. You might want to work with a lawyer to protect yourself while negotiating a divorce agreement if you go this route. Negotiating one-on-one with your abuser could feel scary and intimidating.
You must agree on all aspects of your divorce, including the amount for alimony, in order to file an agreed divorce in Tennessee. If you have disagreements, you may want to consult with a lawyer or a mediator to negotiate an agreement.