A Knoxville Divorce Lawyer You Can Rely On
Deciding to pursue a divorce can be an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. You may feel overwhelmed with questions and unsure of your next steps. When faced with this life-changing decision, you need dependable legal advice from an experienced Tennessee family law attorney who has handled a variety of divorce cases. That’s where the Law Office of Lisa Collins Werner in Knoxville can help.
The divorce process can be intimidating, but our team is here to guide you through each step. Led by attorney Lisa Collins Werner, who brings over 30 years of legal experience, we are equipped to help you achieve a divorce resolution that aligns with your needs and goals. Whether you’re pursuing an uncontested divorce, contested divorce litigation, collaborative divorce, or mediation, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Attorney Lisa Collins Werner has gone through the divorce process herself and understands firsthand how complex divorce can be, especially when children are involved. With her personalized approach, you’ll receive representation tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Understanding the Divorce Timeline in Tennessee
When filing for divorce in Tennessee, understanding the typical timeline can help set expectations and guide you through the process. With the support of a skilled Knoxville divorce attorney, you can stay informed and prepared for what lies ahead.
Several factors influence how long the divorce process will take, including:
- Filing the Complaint: The first step in the divorce process is filing the complaint with the appropriate court, officially initiating the proceedings.
- Mandatory Waiting Period: Under Tennessee law, a minimum 60-day waiting period is required before an initial divorce hearing. If children are involved, the waiting period extends to 90 days. This waiting period allows both parties to gather information and potentially resolve issues before a hearing.
- Uncontested Divorce: In an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on key issues such as property division, custody, and support, the process can be quicker—often completed within two to six months after the waiting period.
- Contested Divorce: A contested divorce takes longer, typically 12 months or more, as the parties cannot agree on major issues. This process often involves negotiations, mediation, and multiple court appearances.
- Discovery Phase: In contested divorces, both parties exchange relevant information during the discovery phase, which can lengthen the timeline but ensures fairness in the final agreement.
- Final Hearing: Once all disputes are resolved, a final hearing is held where the court will issue the divorce decree, officially ending the marriage.
An experienced divorce attorney can help navigate this process efficiently, providing guidance and representation throughout.
Common Issues in Tennessee Divorce Proceedings
As Knoxville divorce attorneys, we have extensive experience handling various complex issues in Tennessee divorces. Here are some potential challenges you may encounter:
- Property Division and Asset Valuation: Equitably distributing property, businesses, investments, and retirement accounts.
- Child Custody and Parenting Plans: Determining schedules, decision-making rights, and visitation arrangements.
- Alimony: Establishing appropriate monthly payments based on income, marriage length, and standard of living.
- Hidden Assets: Identifying undisclosed financial assets through thorough investigation.
- Military Divorce: Addressing service member rights, benefits, and deployment considerations.
- High-Net-Worth Divorce: Analyzing business valuations, tax implications, and complex financial portfolios.
Your attorney will navigate these issues to protect your interests and ensure a fair and just resolution to your divorce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Tennessee
Here are some common questions we hear from clients:
What are the grounds for divorce in Tennessee? Tennessee allows for both fault-based and no-fault divorces. No-fault grounds include irreconcilable differences or a two-year separation (without minor children). Fault-based grounds may include:
- Adultery
- Abandonment
- Cruel treatment
- Substance abuse
- Criminal conviction
Impotency The choice between fault and no-fault grounds can influence property division, alimony, and the overall timeline of your case.
Can I modify a divorce decree after it’s been issued?
Certain aspects of a divorce decree may be modified under specific circumstances, including:
- Child Custody: Changes in living arrangements or needs.
- Child Support: Adjustments based on income or new expenses.
- Alimony: Modifications due to significant financial changes.
- Parenting Time: Shifts due to work schedules or relocation.
- Property division is final unless fraud is discovered. Any modifications require court approval and proper documentation.
Get Started with an Initial Consultation
The Law Office of Lisa Collins Werner is proud to serve clients in Knoxville and throughout East Tennessee. Every family law case is unique, and we encourage you to learn about your options by scheduling an initial consultation. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you and your family. Contact us today and schedule your appointment.