Divorce is never easy, and one of the first questions many people ask is, “How long is this going to take?” In Tennessee, the length of the divorce process can vary widely based on several factors, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, the complexity of the issues involved, and how quickly both spouses are able to cooperate and reach agreements.

At the Law Offices of Crystal Etue, PLLC, we are committed to helping individuals across Middle Tennessee understand their legal options and navigate the divorce process with confidence and clarity.

Uncontested Divorce Timeline in Tennessee

An uncontested divorce is typically the quickest route. This occurs when both spouses agree on all key issues such as property division, child custody, and spousal support. In these cases, Tennessee law requires a mandatory waiting period before the court will finalize the divorce:

• 60 days if there are no minor children
• 90 days if the couple has minor children

These timeframes start after the initial complaint is filed. However, the actual time to finalize an uncontested divorce might be longer depending on court scheduling and how quickly the required documents are completed and filed.

Contested Divorce Timeline in Tennessee

A contested divorce, where the parties disagree on one or more issues, can take much longer—sometimes six months to over a year, or more in complex cases.

The process typically includes:

• Filing the complaint and serving the other spouse
• The other spouse responding to the complaint
• Discovery (the exchange of information)
• Motions, hearings, and possibly a trial

Factors like custody disputes, hidden assets, or emotional conflict can significantly prolong the proceedings.

Factors That Affect the Timeline

Several issues can influence how long your divorce may take in Tennessee:



• Level of cooperation between spouses
• Court scheduling and availability
• Whether mediation or settlement conferences are used
• The need for expert evaluations (e.g., custody or financial assessments)

Even in cases that begin as contested, working with an attorney can help encourage productive negotiation and settlement, potentially shortening the timeline.

Working With a Middle Tennessee Divorce Attorney

At the Law Offices of Crystal Etue, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming and uncertain divorce can feel. Our team works closely with clients to provide compassionate, thorough, and strategic representation every step of the way.

We help clients across Middle Tennessee understand their rights, meet all court requirements, and pursue a fair and timely resolution—whether through agreement or litigation.