Do I Need to Attend Court Hearings During Divorce?

You may have to attend court hearings during the divorce process in Tennessee, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Divorce does not need to be a tedious, lengthy process that involves multiple hearings and a heated trial. Preventing this from happening is possible if you and your spouse can cooperate. These options have benefits and drawbacks and will not apply to every case.

However, it’s in your best interest to consider them and potentially avoid the inconvenience, time, and cost of a drawn-out and expensive divorce. To determine the best way to handle your divorce case, you can discuss your situation with a Tennessee divorce lawyer to explore all the options that may apply to your case.

Is Your Tennessee Divorce Uncontested?

If the divorce is uncontested, only the plaintiff, the one who filed for divorce, needs to show up in court. However, it’s recommended that both spouses show up to address any concerns or paperwork issues that may arise. It is also possible the plaintiff will be granted a default divorce if the defendant fails to show up.

However, even if you need to attend a hearing to settle an uncontested divorce, it may be short and lasts 15 to 30 minutes. Typically, a judge will ask several questions to ensure you satisfy all the divorce requirements and fully understand the divorce agreement. If so, the judge will issue your divorce decree. If your spouse doesn’t attend the hearing, you must mail them a copy of the decree.

Is Your Tennessee Divorce Contested?

If your divorce is contested, which means you can’t settle the issues involved in the dissolution of your marriage, you will be required to show up in court, where the judge will assess your issues and determine the best way to resolve them. A divorce trial usually lasts hours or days, depending on the circumstances. Still, up until before the last trial, you may be required to attend more hearings to resolve your divorce issues, including temporary alimony and child support and disputes regarding further evidence and finances.

The judge will hear evidence and testimony regarding your disputed divorce issues during these hearings. They can also allow you and your spouse to present more evidence and witnesses during these hearings. You may have to go to more hearings if your situation changes before the completion of the divorce. If applicable, you and your spouse may be called for more hearings if you violate a temporary injunction.

The interval between these hearings is usually months apart. Your divorce case can last for years if there are many disputes you and your spouse cannot settle. Usually, spouses compromise and resolve their issues to end their marriage as quickly as possible. Sometimes, however, they will nitpick every little thing to get an advantage, regardless of how long the process takes.

Speak to Our Credible Tennessee Divorce Lawyer Today

Are you considering divorce? To learn more about how divorce works, contact Burch and Stewart Attorneys and schedule your free case consultation with our Tennessee divorce lawyer by contacting us online or calling 931-954-1066.