How Long Does Divorce Take in Tennessee?

It depends entirely on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, and if contested, on how cooperative the other side is willing to be. Here is a realistic timeline for divorces filed in Shelby County, Tennessee.

Uncontested Divorce: 60 to 90 Days

Tennessee law requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the date of filing for divorces involving minor children. For divorces without minor children, the waiting period is also 60 days in most circumstances. If your MDA and Parenting Plan are drafted and signed before or immediately after filing, an uncontested divorce can be finalized in 60 to 90 days from the date the complaint is filed.

The actual timeline depends on the court’s docket and how quickly all paperwork is filed and processed. Shelby County courts are busy. Working with an attorney who files promptly and follows up on scheduling matters.

Contested Divorce: Six Months to Two Years

Contested divorces in Shelby County take longer, sometimes significantly longer. A case that involves disputed custody, a business valuation, or a significant asset dispute can easily run twelve to twenty-four months. The timeline is driven by the court’s scheduling, the complexity of the issues, the conduct of both parties, and whether the case settles before trial.

Most contested cases do settle, often at or after mediation, which is mandatory in Tennessee before a contested divorce can go to trial. The question is not usually whether a case will settle but when and on whose terms.

Factors That Slow Things Down

Discovery, meaning the formal exchange of financial records, depositions, and interrogatories, adds time and cost to any contested case. A spouse who is uncooperative, hiding assets, or litigating everything adds more. Experts such as business valuators, real estate appraisers, and vocational evaluators add time for scheduling and depositions.

What You Can Control

Respond promptly to your attorney. Gather financial documents early. Be honest about all assets and income. Make reasonable decisions. Parties who are organized, responsive, and focused on resolution consistently reach better outcomes faster and at lower cost than those who are not. For a cost breakdown, see our page on How Much Does Divorce Cost in Memphis.

William W. Jones IV is a Memphis family law attorney, Rule 31 Listed Family Mediator, and Super Lawyers selectee every consecutive year from 2014 through 2025. Licensed in Tennessee (BPR 022869) and Mississippi (BPR 100707), he practices at The Jones Law Firm, 5100 Poplar Ave, Suite 708, Memphis, TN 38137. Call (901) 761-5353 or visit midsouthdivorce.com.