How Much Does A Divorce Cost In Tn?

Introduction

Divorce is the act of dissolving a legal marriage. The divorce rate in the United States is roughly 2.9 per 1000, ranking it sixth in the world. Even though divorce is frowned upon in many nations, it is better to divorce than to suffer for the rest of your life. There are different grounds for divorce, and getting a divorce nowadays is relatively easier. Let’s know the answer to your question How Much Does A Divorce Cost In Tn?

Divorce is not just emotionally expensive but also costs a hefty amount to both sides, however, the cost of the divorce might vary from situation to situation and state to state. The cost of divorce in Tennessee could be somewhere from 10,000$ to 20,000$ depending on the aspects included in divorce like alimony or property issues or custody issues, Attorney fees, etc. However, if you have a good understanding and reasoning with the other party then the cost can be reduced or alternatives can be negotiated.

Types of Expenses in Divorce

1. Filing Fees in Tennessee- Filing Fee is like a court fee that one pays for the matter to be initiated once the filing fee is paid, the date for a hearing is given which usually is after 60-90 days of filing. During this 60 – 90 days period, it is recommended to negotiate with the other party about parenting plan, Alimony, Property division, well-being of a minor child, custody, etc. Filing fees vary from place to place anywhere between 250$ to 300$. Filing fees in Tennessee are between 184$ to 301$. 
2. Filing for Agreed Divorce- Agreed Divorce is the fastest and the cheapest option in Tennessee. Agreed divorce usually is for the cases where there are no minor children or property division involved. The idea of Agreed Divorce is that when there are no matters to discuss and decide upon, the paperwork involved in the process and less and easy. 
3. Attorney fees- The attorney fee varies depending on how experienced your lawyer is. If your divorce case involves important aspects like business separation, custody of a minor child, division of property, you will obviously hire a good lawyer and hence the attorney fee will increase. Hourly fees of an attorney can start from 200$ to 2000$. 
4. Court Report Fee- If your trial requires depositions before the judge then you will have to hire a court reporter. Court Reporters transcribe oral proceedings, depending on the case you might want a copy of the transcription which may cost an additional fee other than the hourly charges. The hourly charges can be anywhere between a couple 100 $ to 1000$.
5. Mediation Fees- Mediation is a process that allows the parties to work together to come to an amicable settlement or arrangement. In Tennessee, you are required to go through a mediation process before the final trial. The Mediator’s generally charge somewhere around 200$ to 500$ per hour, however, the mediators fee is to be paid by both the parties equally. 

Why does Uncontested Divorce cost more than Contested Divorce?

An Uncontested divorce is when the party does not wish to prove the wrongdoings of the other party and wants the process of divorce to end faster. In this case, even if the grounds of divorce are adultery, abuse, or desertion, the party decides to not bring these up and get the divorce as soon as possible. On the other hand, a contested divorce is when the party is keen to prove the fault of the other party, this process costs more because  the time and complexity of the case are more than a uncontested divorce, in simple words the more contested divorce will eventually have higher attorney fees.

Can One File for Divorce Without an Attorney?

There are no laws that stop individuals from filing for divorce themselves, so yes one can file for divorce without an attorney, however, divorce filing has complicated paperwork and forms and hence not a lot of people file for divorce without an attorney. When the case involves custody of a minor child, it is always recommended to have an attorney to present your case as a lawyer will be in a better position to explain your stance. Lawyers charge on hourly basis and hence if your case does not involve a minor child, one can always work on a flexible arrangement like hiring attorney for complicated paperwork and for advising.

Conclusion

Divorce and separation are not easy on either of the parties or even the children involved, but considering the bigger picture divorce is a better solution. One can always negotiate and have a consensus on everything before filing for divorce so that the process can be faster and cost efficient for both parties. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Is there any law regarding Adultery in Tennessee?

Answer. No, Adultery is not a crime in Tennessee.

2. Does it matter which party files for divorce?

Answer. No, it doesn’t matter which party files for divorce.