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Stewart County Divorce Guide: Filing in Dover, Tennessee

Stewart County handles divorce cases through the Circuit or Chancery Court. Whether you live in Dover or another Stewart County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Stewart County.

Stewart County Divorce at a Glance

County: Stewart County
Primary City: Dover, Tennessee
Court Type: Circuit or Chancery Court
Residency Requirement: 6 months
Waiting Period: 60 days

What Makes Stewart County Unique

Every county in Tennessee follows the same state divorce laws, but Stewart County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Stewart County's Circuit or Chancery Court has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other Tennessee countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Stewart County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Stewart County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Stewart County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Tennessee vary by county. Contact the Stewart County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Tennessee Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

  • Service of process: $40-$150

  • Certified copies: $1-$5 per page

  • Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Tennessee courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Stewart County

Attorney fees in Stewart County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

  • Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour

  • Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour

  • Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

  • Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000

  • Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+

  • High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

  • Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000

  • Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Tennessee attorneys. Actual costs in Stewart County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Stewart County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Tennessee's residency requirement: 6 months

Step 2: Gather Documents

  • Marriage certificate (certified copy)

  • Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

  • Property records

  • Debt information

  • Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Tennessee requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Stewart County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

  • Petition/Complaint for Divorce

  • Financial affidavits

  • Child custody forms (if applicable)

  • Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Stewart County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Tennessee countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Tennessee law. Service options include:

  • Sheriff's department

  • Private process server

  • Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Tennessee may require:

  • Parenting classes (if children involved)

  • Financial disclosures

  • Mediation attempts

  • Waiting period: 60 days

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Stewart County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

  • Minimum: 60 days (state-mandated waiting period)

  • Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree

  • Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

  • Minor disagreements: 4-8 months

  • Significant disputes: 8-14 months

  • Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Stewart County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court

Stewart County's divorce cases are handled by the Circuit or Chancery Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

  • Process divorce petitions

  • Conduct hearings and trials

  • Issue temporary orders

  • Approve settlement agreements

  • Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Stewart County divorce cases.

Tennessee Divorce Court Locator

Stewart County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Stewart County Superior Court

Court Address:

P.O. BOX 910

Lumpkin,

GA

31815

Phone:

(229) 838 6220

Fax:

(229) 838 4505

Clerk Hours:

8:00-4:30

Website:

http://www.stewartcountyga.gov/

Judges:

R. Rucker Smith George M. Peagler, Jr. W. James Sizemore, Jr.

Clerks:

Patti B. Smith

Court Name:

Stewart County Circuit Court

Court Address:

225 Donelson Parkway

Dover,

TN

37058

Phone:

931-232-7042

Fax:

931 232-5665

Clerk Hours:

8:00am - 4:30pm

Website:

https://stewartcogov.com/

Judges:

David Dee Wolfe, Suzanne M. Lockert-Mash, Larry J. Wallace, G. Andrew Brigham, Marlin L. Blane, Pharm.D, J.D.

Clerks:

Jason Wallace

Tennessee Divorce Court Locator

Stewart County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Stewart County Superior Court

Court Address:

P.O. BOX 910

Lumpkin,

GA

31815

Phone:

(229) 838 6220

Fax:

(229) 838 4505

Clerk Hours:

8:00-4:30

Website:

http://www.stewartcountyga.gov/

Judges:

R. Rucker Smith George M. Peagler, Jr. W. James Sizemore, Jr.

Clerks:

Patti B. Smith

Court Name:

Stewart County Circuit Court

Court Address:

225 Donelson Parkway

Dover,

TN

37058

Phone:

931-232-7042

Fax:

931 232-5665

Clerk Hours:

8:00am - 4:30pm

Website:

https://stewartcogov.com/

Judges:

David Dee Wolfe, Suzanne M. Lockert-Mash, Larry J. Wallace, G. Andrew Brigham, Marlin L. Blane, Pharm.D, J.D.

Clerks:

Jason Wallace

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Stewart County

Legal Aid Services

Tennessee has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Stewart County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Tennessee courts offer self-help centers with:

  • Divorce form packets

  • Filing instructions

  • Procedural information

  • Referrals to resources

Contact the Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Tennessee may offer:

  • Free legal consultations

  • Reduced-fee attorney referrals

  • Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Stewart County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Stewart County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Stewart County.

Benefits of Online Services:

  • Stewart County-specific forms and filing instructions

  • Professional document preparation

  • Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees

  • Convenient online process

  • Support throughout your case

Best For:

  • Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree

  • Cases without complex assets or custody disputes

  • Couples able to cooperate on terms

  • People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Stewart County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Stewart County

Stewart County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Tennessee

Tennessee courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

  • Each parent's ability to care for children

  • Children's relationship with each parent

  • Stability of proposed living arrangements

  • Children's adjustment to home, school, community

  • Parents' willingness to cooperate

  • Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Stewart County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Tennessee uses guidelines based on:

  • Both parents' incomes

  • Number of children

  • Parenting time allocation

  • Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Tennessee may require parents in Stewart County to:

  • Complete parenting education classes

  • Attend mediation for custody disputes

  • Submit detailed parenting plans

  • Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Stewart County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Tennessee requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Tennessee county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Tennessee's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Stewart County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Stewart County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Stewart County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Stewart County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Stewart County?

Uncontested divorces in Stewart County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Tennessee requires 60 days waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Stewart County?

Filing fees vary by Tennessee county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Stewart County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Stewart County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Tennessee's residency requirement (6 months), you can file in Stewart County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Tennessee, you can request a default judgment from Stewart County court.

How is property divided in Stewart County?

Tennessee follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Stewart County require separation before divorce?

Tennessee's laws determine separation requirements. 60 days waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Stewart County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Stewart County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Stewart County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Stewart County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet Tennessee's residency requirement (6 months)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Stewart County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Stewart County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Stewart County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Stewart County, Tennessee. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Stewart County's Circuit or Chancery Court.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Stewart County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Tennessee family law attorney.

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Best

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Stewart County Divorce Guide: Filing in Dover, Tennessee

Stewart County handles divorce cases through the Circuit or Chancery Court. Whether you live in Dover or another Stewart County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Stewart County.

Stewart County Divorce at a Glance

County: Stewart County
Primary City: Dover, Tennessee
Court Type: Circuit or Chancery Court
Residency Requirement: 6 months
Waiting Period: 60 days

What Makes Stewart County Unique

Every county in Tennessee follows the same state divorce laws, but Stewart County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Stewart County's Circuit or Chancery Court has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other Tennessee countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Stewart County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Stewart County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Stewart County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in Tennessee vary by county. Contact the Stewart County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical Tennessee Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

  • Service of process: $40-$150

  • Certified copies: $1-$5 per page

  • Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most Tennessee courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Stewart County

Attorney fees in Stewart County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

  • Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour

  • Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour

  • Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

  • Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000

  • Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+

  • High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

  • Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000

  • Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for Tennessee attorneys. Actual costs in Stewart County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Stewart County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet Tennessee's residency requirement: 6 months

Step 2: Gather Documents

  • Marriage certificate (certified copy)

  • Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

  • Property records

  • Debt information

  • Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

Tennessee requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Stewart County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

  • Petition/Complaint for Divorce

  • Financial affidavits

  • Child custody forms (if applicable)

  • Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Stewart County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many Tennessee countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to Tennessee law. Service options include:

  • Sheriff's department

  • Private process server

  • Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

Tennessee may require:

  • Parenting classes (if children involved)

  • Financial disclosures

  • Mediation attempts

  • Waiting period: 60 days

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Stewart County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

  • Minimum: 60 days (state-mandated waiting period)

  • Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree

  • Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

  • Minor disagreements: 4-8 months

  • Significant disputes: 8-14 months

  • Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Stewart County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court

Stewart County's divorce cases are handled by the Circuit or Chancery Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

  • Process divorce petitions

  • Conduct hearings and trials

  • Issue temporary orders

  • Approve settlement agreements

  • Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Stewart County divorce cases.

Tennessee Divorce Court Locator

Stewart County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Stewart County Superior Court

Court Address:

P.O. BOX 910

Lumpkin,

GA

31815

Phone:

(229) 838 6220

Fax:

(229) 838 4505

Clerk Hours:

8:00-4:30

Website:

http://www.stewartcountyga.gov/

Judges:

R. Rucker Smith George M. Peagler, Jr. W. James Sizemore, Jr.

Clerks:

Patti B. Smith

Court Name:

Stewart County Circuit Court

Court Address:

225 Donelson Parkway

Dover,

TN

37058

Phone:

931-232-7042

Fax:

931 232-5665

Clerk Hours:

8:00am - 4:30pm

Website:

https://stewartcogov.com/

Judges:

David Dee Wolfe, Suzanne M. Lockert-Mash, Larry J. Wallace, G. Andrew Brigham, Marlin L. Blane, Pharm.D, J.D.

Clerks:

Jason Wallace

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Stewart County

Legal Aid Services

Tennessee has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Stewart County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many Tennessee courts offer self-help centers with:

  • Divorce form packets

  • Filing instructions

  • Procedural information

  • Referrals to resources

Contact the Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in Tennessee may offer:

  • Free legal consultations

  • Reduced-fee attorney referrals

  • Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Stewart County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Stewart County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Stewart County.

Benefits of Online Services:

  • Stewart County-specific forms and filing instructions

  • Professional document preparation

  • Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees

  • Convenient online process

  • Support throughout your case

Best For:

  • Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree

  • Cases without complex assets or custody disputes

  • Couples able to cooperate on terms

  • People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Stewart County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Stewart County

Stewart County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in Tennessee

Tennessee courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

  • Each parent's ability to care for children

  • Children's relationship with each parent

  • Stability of proposed living arrangements

  • Children's adjustment to home, school, community

  • Parents' willingness to cooperate

  • Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Stewart County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

Tennessee uses guidelines based on:

  • Both parents' incomes

  • Number of children

  • Parenting time allocation

  • Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

Tennessee may require parents in Stewart County to:

  • Complete parenting education classes

  • Attend mediation for custody disputes

  • Submit detailed parenting plans

  • Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Stewart County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

Tennessee requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each Tennessee county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow Tennessee's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Stewart County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Stewart County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Stewart County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Stewart County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Stewart County?

Uncontested divorces in Stewart County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Tennessee requires 60 days waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Stewart County?

Filing fees vary by Tennessee county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Stewart County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Stewart County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet Tennessee's residency requirement (6 months), you can file in Stewart County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in Tennessee, you can request a default judgment from Stewart County court.

How is property divided in Stewart County?

Tennessee follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Stewart County require separation before divorce?

Tennessee's laws determine separation requirements. 60 days waiting period applies after filing. Formal separation is not required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Stewart County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Stewart County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Stewart County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Stewart County Circuit or Chancery Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Stewart County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet Tennessee's residency requirement (6 months)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Stewart County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Stewart County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Stewart County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Stewart County, Tennessee. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Stewart County's Circuit or Chancery Court.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Stewart County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified Tennessee family law attorney.

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

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