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Tennessee court preparation · reviewed August 22, 2026

Preparing for Tennessee Family Court

A careful statewide checklist that sends county- and court-specific fees, forms, and procedures to the receiving court.

Legal information, not legal advice. Tennessee law and local practice can change. Verify forms, fees, filing methods, service, and hearing procedure with the clerk of the court (Circuit / Chancery / Juvenile) receiving your case.

Before filing

  • Identify the correct Tennessee court: Circuit (divorce / custody), Chancery (equity, some counties), or Juvenile (unmarried parents, dependency & neglect)
  • Ask the court clerk for current forms, filing method, and local rules
  • Filing fees are set by county — confirm the current amount
  • If you cannot afford fees, request a waiver under Tennessee Rule 29 (Affidavit of Indigency)
  • Use the Tennessee court-approved forms and the parenting-plan form
  • Complete the mandatory 4-hour parent education seminar
  • Complete any ordered mediation
  • Serve the other party in the manner the court rules require and file a proof of service

Before the hearing

  • Read every notice and temporary order
  • Meet the actual exhibit, witness, disclosure, and subpoena deadlines
  • Confirm the courtroom, remote link, check-in, security, and device rules
  • Prepare a short list of requested orders and the evidence supporting each
  • Bring only what the court permits; arrange child care unless the court directs otherwise
Official sources reviewed August 22, 2026

Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the clerk of the Tennessee court (Circuit / Chancery / Juvenile) handling your case.

Confirm current court fees and deadlines. Court fees, filing and response deadlines, hearing timing, notice periods, and local procedures can change or vary by Tennessee county and court. Before relying on any amount or time period on this page, confirm the current amount or deadline with the court or court clerk handling your case.