Get Ma Unicare Provider Referral Request Form 2013-2025

What if Spouse Won't Sign Divorce Papers? In Tennessee, if a spouse will not sign divorce papers after being served, there are still ways to move forward with the divorce. You can file with the court and await an assigned court date.

Tennessee has two no-fault grounds for divorce: Irreconcilable differences. The parties can't get along and there's no hope of reconciliation. Living apart. The spouses have lived in separate residences for two continuous years, haven't cohabitated, and don't have minor children.

You will, however, need to satisfy the court that the marriage has broken down irretrievably or that other grounds exist for the granting of a divorce, for example, mental illness. While you do not have to obtain your spouse's consent, you are still required to notify your spouse of your intention to get divorced.

The average cost of divorce in Tennessee is $12,600 per side and if you have minor children, that average jumps to $18,900.

Do I have to go to court for a Tennessee divorce? Not always. If the parties can reach an agreement on all issues, they will “settle.” A settlement can be reached between the parties by exchanging settlement agreements or at mediation. If a settlement is reached, only one spouse will go to court for the final hearing.

For a settlement, the spouses must agree on one divorce ground. If grounds are neither agreed to nor proven at trial, then the judge should not grant the divorce. In all, there are 15 possible grounds for divorce under Tennessee law. Two of which are without marital fault.

Divorce Filing Fees in Tennessee If you can't afford to pay the filing fees, you can ask the judge to waive the fees. You can request a fee waiver by filing a Request to Postpone Filing Fees and Order. If the court grants your request to waive fees, you will not have to pay any court costs during your divorce.

With your court fees covered, DIY is the only method of obtaining a free divorce, but it's only viable if you and your spouse agree to the divorce and why you're getting one.