Uncontested Divorce Attorney in Clarksville

Serving Clients in Montgomery and Stewart Counties

Do you and your spouse need to end your marriage even though you are both on good terms? If you and your spouse are in agreement about all the major issues in your divorce, you may be able to get an uncontested divorce.

At Jeff Grimes & Associates, PLLC, our Clarksville uncontested divorce lawyers are well-versed in the divorce process and can guide you through it. Our attorneys provide our clients with the highest level of service possible. We offer an initial consultation so you can meet with us and decide if we are the right firm for you. Our office is conveniently located in downtown Clarksville, near the courthouse.

Call (931) 398-5308 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with our Clarksville uncontested divorce lawyers.

What Is Uncontested Divorce?

In a contested divorce, the spouses cannot agree on one or more of the divorce's major issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, or child support. In an uncontested divorce, on the other hand, the spouses agree on all the issues in their divorce.

Uncontested divorces are generally much quicker and less expensive than contested divorces because the parties do not have to go to court. In addition, the parties may be able to avoid the emotional turmoil that can come with a contested divorce.

At Jeff Grimes & Associates, PLLC, we can help you with all the issues in your uncontested divorce, including:

• Property division
• Alimony
• Child custody
• Child support

What Is the Uncontested Divorce Process?

The first step in an uncontested divorce is to ensure that you or your spouse meet the state's residency requirements. To file for divorce in Tennessee, at least one spouse must have resided in Tennessee for at least six months prior to filing for divorce.

Next, the spouses must ensure that the necessary documents have been filled out and properly prepared. These documents include:

• Complaint for Divorce: This document outlines the reasons for the divorce and discloses the basic information about a marriage. This information can include the date of marriage, the names of the spouses, and grounds for divorce.
• Marital Settlement Agreement: This document outlines the division of assets, child custody and support, and any other agreements made between the spouses. The agreement must be fair to both parties, and it must be submitted to the court for approval.
• Parenting Plan (where applicable): If there are children involved, this document outlines how custody, visitation, and child support will be handled.

After preparing the paperwork, it must be filed with the court. Applicable fees must be paid upon filing. Then the divorce papers will be sent to the non-filing spouse in a process known as "service of process." In uncontested divorces, the other spouse is usually cooperative, allowing for voluntary acceptance--making the service process fast and smooth.

After a state-mandated 60-day waiting period, your case will be heard by a judge. You and your spouse must appear at this court hearing where you may be asked to answer routine questions. Once the judge approves the divorce, the court will finalize the decree.

How Can an Attorney Help with an Uncontested Divorce?

Even in an uncontested divorce, the guidance of a skilled attorney can be invaluable. While the spouses may be in agreement on major issues, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and that the process runs smoothly can be challenging without professional assistance. An experienced attorney can help in several ways:

• Ensuring Legal Compliance: Divorce laws and requirements can be very intricate in the State of Tennessee. A knowledgeable attorney can ensure that all documents are properly prepared and that they comply with Tennessee's legal standards. This includes understanding and meeting residency requirements, and accurately completing the Complaint for Divorce, Marital Settlement Agreement, and Parenting Plan.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Without legal guidance, spouses might overlook important details or make errors in their documentation, leading to delays or even dismissal of their case. Attorneys can help avoid these pitfalls by meticulously reviewing all paperwork and ensuring all necessary details are included and correctly presented.
• Streamlining the Process: An attorney can efficiently handle the preparation and filing of documents, manage communication with the court, and assist with the service of process. This streamlining can save time and reduce stress for both parties.
• Providing Objective Advice: Even in an uncontested divorce, emotions can run high. An attorney provides a level-headed perspective, offering objective advice to ensure that both parties' interests are fairly represented. This is especially important in matters of property division, alimony, and child custody and support.
• Preparing You for Court: Though uncontested divorces tend to be less complicated, you and your spouse will still need to appear in court. An attorney can prepare you for this court hearing, advising you on what to expect helping to ensure a favorable outcome.

If you are considering an uncontested divorce, contact Jeff Grimes & Associates, PLLC today. Our experienced attorney is here to help you navigate the process with ease, providing the expertise and support you need for a smooth transition.

Contact us today at (931) 398-5308 to get started with your uncontested divorce.