This figure is an estimate and has not yet been checked against the current court fee schedule. Confirm with Tennessee Courts before you file.
Tennessee divorce cost summary
Here's the at-a-glance breakdown for Tennessee. Run the calculator above for an estimate matched to your exact situation.
| Scenario | Estimated total | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|
| DIY uncontested (no lawyer) | $300 – $800 | Waiting period + processing |
| Uncontested with attorney | $1,050 – $2,800 | 2–6 months |
| Mediation (shared between spouses) | $1,000 – $4,000 | 1–4 months |
| Contested (average) | $4,000 – $13,000 | 9–18 months |
| Court filing fee | $300 | — |
Divorce filing fees in Tennessee
The fee to file a divorce petition with the Tennessee Courts (tncourts.gov) is approximately $300. If your spouse files a formal response, a first-appearance fee may apply on their side as well, so a fully contested case can start at roughly $600 in court fees before anything else.
Some counties add small local surcharges, so the exact figure can vary by a few dollars depending on where you file. If you cannot afford the fee, Tennessee offers a fee waiver based on income — if granted, you pay nothing to file.
How long does divorce take in Tennessee?
Tennessee imposes a waiting period of 60 days (90 with children). This is the legal minimum before a divorce can be finalised — it applies even when both spouses agree on everything from day one.
- Uncontested divorce: typically the waiting period plus court processing time
- Contested divorce: commonly 9–18 months, longer if custody or significant property is disputed
- Mediation: can shorten a contested case and reduce overall cost
Tennessee residency requirements
To file for divorce in Tennessee, the residency requirement is 6 months. If you don't yet qualify, you may be able to file for legal separation first and convert to divorce once you meet the requirement.
Uncontested divorce cost in Tennessee
If you and your spouse agree on property, support and (if applicable) custody, costs can be limited to the $300 filing fee plus optional help:
- Pure DIY: $300–$800 using the court's self-help forms
- Online document service: roughly $800–$1,800 total
- Attorney-reviewed uncontested case: roughly $1,050 – $2,800 total
Contested divorce cost in Tennessee
Family-law rates in Tennessee commonly run $150–$350/hr. A contested divorce typically costs $4,000 – $12,000 in attorney fees, and cases with custody evaluations, business valuations or forensic accounting can run higher. Mediation ($1,000–$4,000) is often the most effective way to bring a contested case back toward uncontested pricing.
Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee courts publish the required forms, and uncontested cases are routinely completed without attorneys. The simpler your situation — no minor children, limited shared property, full agreement — the more likely a DIY filing is appropriate. Use the calculator above to check your estimated DIY eligibility.
Tennessee divorce FAQ
How much does a divorce cost in Tennessee?
What is the divorce filing fee in Tennessee?
How long does a divorce take in Tennessee?
How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Tennessee?
How much does a contested divorce cost in Tennessee?
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Tennessee?
Can I get divorced without a lawyer in Tennessee?
What is the residency requirement for divorce in Tennessee?
Is there a waiting period for divorce in Tennessee?
How can I reduce my divorce costs in Tennessee?
Tennessee divorce cost guides
Sources
- Tennessee Courts ↗ — fee schedule & divorce procedures
- Tennessee statutes on waiting period and residency ↗
- State bar association & published legal-fee surveys — attorney cost ranges (estimates, not quotes)
- How we compile and verify these figures
Content last updated: 20 Jun 2026 · Filing fee not yet independently verified — treat as an estimate and confirm with the court before filing.