Divorce

Chattanooga Divorce Attorney

Protecting Your Rights & Interests Throughout the Divorce Process in Chatanooga, TN

When facing the difficult decision to end a marriage, it's crucial to have the support and expertise of a compassionate and knowledgeable divorce lawyer by your side. At Speek, Turner, & Newkirk PLLC, we provide comprehensive family law services to meet the needs of our clients.

Whether you are going through a contested or uncontested divorce, our experienced Chattanooga divorce lawyers can help. We understand the legal complexities of divorce and can provide sound advice and guidance throughout the process.


Call (423) 799-3030 or fill out our online contact form today to learn how our firm can help you.


Tennessee Divorce Laws

Tennessee allows for both fault-based and no-fault divorces. The no-fault ground for divorce is "irreconcilable differences," which means that there has been a breakdown of the marital relationship with no hope of reconciliation. Fault-based grounds for divorce include adultery, abandonment, cruel treatment, drug/alcohol addiction, and inappropriate marital conduct.

To file for divorce in Tennessee, either you or your spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months prior to filing. Additionally, you or your spouse must have lived in the county where you plan to file for divorce for at least 90 days.

Tennessee has a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. If you have no minor children, the waiting period is 60 days from the date of filing. However, if you have minor children, the waiting period is 90 days.

Contested Divorce vs Uncontested Divorce

There are two main types of divorce: contested divorce and uncontested divorce. A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot reach an agreement on one or more significant matters related to their divorce (e.g., child custody, child support, property division, spousal support, etc.), while an uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses are in agreement on all significant issues related to their divorce.

In a contested divorce, the spouses typically need to go through a more formal legal process, involving court hearings and potentially a trial. Each spouse may hire their own attorney to represent their interests.

The court will ultimately decide on the contested issues if the spouses cannot reach a settlement through negotiation, mediation, or alternative dispute resolution methods. The court's decision will be legally binding.

In an uncontested divorce, the spouses can simplify the process by working together to create a settlement agreement that addresses all relevant matters. Once the settlement agreement is finalized, it is submitted to the court for approval. If the court finds the agreement fair and reasonable, it will issue a divorce decree, finalizing the divorce.

No matter what type of divorce you are involved in, having an experienced lawyer on your side can ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire process. An attorney can handle all the paperwork, meet all the deadlines, and obtain the most favorable outcome in your case.

Let Our Firm Help You Start a New Chapter in Life Today!

If you are looking for a Chattanooga divorce lawyer, look no further than Speek, Turner, & Newkirk PLLC. Our experienced legal team is here to provide you with the best possible legal advice and representation. We understand that divorce is a difficult process and we are here to help you through it.

Our Chattanooga divorce attorneys have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the legal process of divorce. We are committed to providing personalized legal advice and support throughout the entire process. We understand that divorce is a difficult and emotional process and we strive to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible.


Contact us today for an initial consultation to discuss your divorce needs.


Peace of Mind Knowing We Are on Your Side

See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us
    "Very professional"
    Bill Speek was very professional and he did a great job working my case. He actually knocked it out the park, he is Chattanooga’s Lincoln Lawyer!
    - Demarcus A.
    "Magician, a negotiator, and a life changer"
    Bill, you are not just an attorney. You are are magician, a negotiator, and a life changer. I referred a friend of mine that has, or better yet, HAD (thanks to you) a very delicate situation and you made it right in less than 2 days!! Now, STAFF, I know that you guys don't get recognized enough. I know that yall are the one's that do the calls, the set ups, and catch the crapstorm if it doesn't go well. Everyone there gives a feeling of humbled confidence, never arrogant. THANK YOU!
    - Frank J.
    "Best attorney in Chattanooga"
    By far Mr Speek is the best attorney in Chattanooga. I highly recommend his expertise to anyone . Mr Speek is a very prestigious gentleman and really cares about his clients. Anytime I had a question his amazing staff was very prompt in getting an answer. Very sweet , polite and knowledgeable girls that work in the office as well. Walking in to hire a lawyer for me was very humiliating and uncomfortable. As soon as I walked in the office I felt very welcome and at ease. Mr Speek is very loyal to his clients and you can tell that he sincerely cares. Also a very known respected attorney . I can’t thank Mr Speek enough for all his help . I would highly recommend Mr Speek to anyone seeking an attorney.
    - Laura P.
    "I strongly recommend"
    Bill speek is committed to his job. Not only did surpass my needs and expectations, but he throughly explained everything I needed to know in a timely manner. He was a huge help and I strongly recommend his services.
    - Jake S.
    "Truly a miracle worker"
    Bill Speek. An angel sent from above. Truly a miracle worker. If I could give 20 stars, I would. Tell me how this man dropped 9 felony charges in just 5 minutes?!! Seriously can’t wrap my head around it. Don’t waste your time even looking for another lawyer.
    - Anika E.
    "Absolutely a ten on the stars rating"
    I want to give a ten stars but google has 1-5 stars. Jonathan Turner was my lawyer and my case and it's over and my dui (2nd) got totally dismissed. We went to court many times and it always got pushed forward to another day. We dealt with blood test result and inconsistent and retesting. Covid was also a big factor in my case being extended for months and months. Different DA"s, not a good deal on the table and other factors included in my case. In the end,,, absolutely a ten on the stars rating from me. Dismissed..... I recommend Jonathan and his group highly. Thank you Jonathan so very much!!! Thank you again!!!
    - Dale J.
    "This law firm is the best!!"
    They are always willing to go the extra mile for every one of their clients.
    - Madeline Y.
    "Mr. Speek saved my life."
    Trust me, if you need a drug lawyer, he is the best. I don't know what I would have done without you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
    - Eric K.

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