Custody is part of divorce proceedings for parents with children. Because uncontested or “agreed” custody cases, in which both parents are in agreement regarding the terms of custody, move faster through court and cost significantly less, it is highly recommended that the parents mediate with one another and try to get on the same page.

If parents are able to agree on a permanent parenting plan, the court will approve and make it part of the final decree order, provided it is in the child’s best interest.

If parents are unable to agree on a parenting plan, the court or one of the parents may motion for dispute resolution proceedings. If parents still have not reached an agreement within 45 days before the trial date, each parent must submit their own parenting plan and continue to negotiate in the meantime.^[1]

Under Tennessee’s Child Support Guidelines, child support obligations are determined using the parent’s combined adjusted gross income and the number of children eligible for support.^[2]

Use the state’s Child Support Calculator to estimate how much support may be ordered by the court under the guidelines.

To begin the process for an agreed divorce with children, complete all the forms listed on the court-approved divorce form, in addition to a parenting plan order and child support worksheet.

Submit the completed forms to the court clerk and pay the filing fee, which varies depending on the county.

Wait at least 90 days after filing the Request for Divorce form, then ask the court clerk how to get a court date for the final divorce hearing.

Some counties in Tennessee require both spouses to attend the final hearing. Even if it’s not legally required, it’s highly recommended so that the judge can ask any clarifying questions to either party.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the judge will issue a court order finalizing the divorce decree and custody order. Visit the court clerk to obtain certified copies for personal recordkeeping.