Tennessee · Circuit or Chancery Court — Family Division
Tennessee family court, without the confusion.
Tennessee Circuit and Chancery Courts handle divorce, custody, child support, and orders of protection. The specific court varies by county.
We walk you through exactly what to fill out, in plain English, and produce the forms ready to sign and file.
Where do you need help?
Coming soon
Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage
Start or respond to a divorce case. Covers petition, financial disclosure, and the complete filing packet.
Coming soon
Child Custody / Parenting Time
Establish custody and parenting time when you were never married or as part of a divorce.
Coming soon
Modify Custody or Parenting Time
Change an existing custody or parenting time order when circumstances have significantly changed.
Coming soon
Child Support
Establish or modify a child support order.
Coming soon
Establish Paternity
Legally establish parentage when the parents were not married.
Coming soon
Protective Order
Get an emergency order to protect yourself or your children from domestic violence or harassment.
Coming soon
Relocation (Moving with Children)
Request court approval to move with your children, or oppose a move.
Coming soon
Enforce a Court Order
Bring the other party back to court when they are violating an existing order.
Coming soon
Name Change
Change your name or your child's name through the court.
Coming soon
Spousal Support / Alimony
Request or respond to a request for spousal support or alimony.
What Tennessee requires — before you file
1
6-month residency. You or your spouse must have lived in Tennessee for at least 6 months before filing for divorce.
2
90-day waiting period (no children) / 180-day (with children). Tennessee imposes a 90-day waiting period for divorces without minor children and 180 days when minor children are involved.
3
Parenting plan required if children. All Tennessee cases involving minor children require a permanent parenting plan.
4
Financial disclosure required. Both parties must exchange financial statements.
Tennessee uses 'legal custody' and 'physical custody.' All cases with children require a Permanent Parenting Plan — a detailed schedule covering holidays, transportation, and decision-making.
All 15 Tennessee Counties
Tennessee family law forms are filed in the county Circuit or Chancery Court where you or the defendant lives.
Shelby
Davidson
Knox
Hamilton
Rutherford
Williamson
Montgomery
Sumner
Wilson
Washington
Sullivan
Blount
Maury
Anderson
Sevier