Knoxville Contested Divorce Attorney

Helping You Navigate the Complexities of Divorce

Divorce is a difficult process, and it can be even more challenging when you and your spouse cannot agree on the terms of your separation. In a contested divorce, the court will make the final decisions regarding your divorce settlement, including property division, child custody, and more. This can be a stressful and time-consuming process, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you can navigate the complexities of your divorce and work toward a favorable outcome.

At Jodi Loden, PLLC, we understand the challenges you are facing, and we are here to help. Our Knoxville contested divorce lawyer has over a decade of experience, and we can provide the compassionate and effective legal counsel you need during this difficult time. We will work with you to understand your unique situation and goals, and we will fight to protect your rights and best interests throughout the legal process.

Call (865) 424-7225 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our contested divorce attorney in Knoxville today.

What Is a Contested Divorce?

In Tennessee, a divorce is considered contested if the spouses cannot agree on one or more of the key issues in their divorce. These issues may include:

• Property division
• Alimony
• Child custody
• Child support

When a divorce is contested, the court will make the final decisions regarding these issues. This can be a lengthy and expensive process, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you can work toward a favorable outcome.

Contested Divorce Requirements in Tennessee

Contested divorces in Tennessee occur when spouses cannot reach an agreement on key issues, necessitating court intervention. Several requirements must be met to initiate a contested divorce:

• Residency: At least one spouse must have lived in Tennessee for six months preceding the filing. Residency requirements are critical to establishing the court's jurisdiction over the divorce proceedings.
• Grounds for Divorce: Tennessee recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. Fault grounds may include adultery, cruelty, abandonment, or substance abuse. Alternatively, couples can pursue a no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences, signaling an irreparable breakdown of the marriage.
• Filing the Complaint: The spouse initiating the divorce, known as the petitioner, files a complaint with the court, specifying the grounds for divorce and outlining their requests regarding property division, alimony, child custody, and support.
• Service of Process: After filing, the petitioner serves the other spouse, known as the respondent, with the divorce papers. The respondent then has a specified time to respond, either contesting or agreeing to the terms outlined in the complaint.
• Discovery Process: In the discovery process, both parties exchange information and documentation relevant to the divorce. Each spouse develops their case during this phase.
• Mediation and Settlement Attempts: It's common for courts to encourage mediation to facilitate a resolution. If an agreement is reached, the divorce can proceed as uncontested; otherwise, the case proceeds to trial.

Contested divorces are often complex and emotionally taxing. Seeking legal counsel from experienced Knoxville contested divorce attorneys is crucial to navigating the legal requirements, understanding rights and obligations, and building a strong case tailored to the unique circumstances of the marriage dissolution.

Call (865) 424-7225 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our contested divorce attorney in Knoxville today.