If the divorce is contested in any respect, the defendant must file an answer within thirty days after he or she is served with the papers. The court will set a trial date at which time the judge will hear the evidence and decide any disputes, such as alimony, custody, child support, visitation rights, division of property, and the like. No matter how the divorce is obtained, you are divorced on the date the judge signs the document granting the divorce. However, there is a thirty day period after the judge has signed the final judgment during which either party may appeal the decision to a higher court. Neither party should remarry until after the time for appeal has passed.
Mediation is an option for couples who are seeking a divorce.
Mediation is a voluntary process where an impartial third party facilitates discussion between the couple. Mediation helps the couple arrive at their own mutually acceptable agreement on issues, parenting plans, property and economic issues. For more information on Mediation, please request message number 2200. Knoxville Bar Association. All rights reserved.