Tennessee Divorce FAQ — Most Common Questions (2026)

Basics

How long do I have to live in Tennessee before I can file for divorce? One spouse must have been a Tennessee resident for at least 6 months before filing.

Where do I file? In the county where either spouse has lived for the past 6 months, or where the parties last lived together. File at the Circuit Court or Chancery Court — varies by county.

How do I know if I file at Circuit Court or Chancery Court? Call both courts in your county and ask which handles domestic relations/divorce. The answer varies by county.

What are the grounds for divorce in Tennessee? No-fault: "Irreconcilable differences" (requires a signed MDA). Fault: 15 grounds including inappropriate marital conduct, adultery, desertion, felony conviction, habitual substance abuse, and others.

What is the waiting period? 60 days from filing (no minor children) or 90 days from filing (with minor children). Starts from the filing date, not service.

The MDA

What is a Marital Dissolution Agreement (MDA)? A signed agreement between both spouses covering all property division, debt allocation, and spousal support. Required for irreconcilable differences divorces — no signed MDA means no no-fault divorce in Tennessee.

Does the MDA have to be signed before filing? Not necessarily before filing, but before the Decree is entered. Many couples draft it during the waiting period. Filing the Complaint starts the clock while you finalize the MDA.

What if my spouse won't sign the MDA? You cannot use irreconcilable differences. You must file on a fault ground and proceed through a contested process.

Children

What is the Permanent Parenting Plan (PPP)? Tennessee's required official statutory form for parenting arrangements when minor children are involved. It covers the residential schedule, decision-making authority, holiday schedule, and child support. Generic custody agreements are not accepted.

Is a parent education seminar required? Yes — both parents must complete it before the Decree is entered when minor children are involved.

How long does child support last? Until age 18, or until graduation from high school if the child is still in high school at 18 (not past age 19).

Alimony

What are Tennessee's alimony types?

  1. Alimony in futuro — long-term/permanent periodic payments; modifiable; ends on death or remarriage
  2. Alimony in solido — fixed lump sum; non-modifiable; does NOT end on remarriage
  3. Rehabilitative alimony — temporary; supports education/training toward self-sufficiency
  4. Transitional alimony — short-term adjustment; not modifiable

Does an MDA have to address alimony? Yes — either specify terms or include a clear mutual waiver.

Property

Does Tennessee split property 50/50? No. Tennessee uses equitable distribution — fair under the circumstances. Equal division is not required. Courts consider 13 factors.

How do I transfer the house title? A new deed must be prepared, signed, and recorded at the county Register of Deeds. The Decree alone does not transfer title.

Last reviewed: March 2026 | Tennessee divorce forms: tncourts.gov | MDA required for irreconcilable differences

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.