      
  306 reviews

Full-Service Law Firm

How Long Does Divorce Take?

Focused, personal representation for Tennessee families and businesses, with offices in Nashville and Memphis.

Last Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

The time it takes for you to complete the divorce process on average takes anywhere between two to six months. In Tennessee, the state imposes a waiting period which can be sixty to ninety days. However, if there are complications such as disputes over how assets will be distributed it can take over a year for a divorce to be finalized. If you and your spouse cannot agree on the terms of a divorce, you can consult with a lawyer on finding amicable solutions.

How are assets distributed?

What is often challenging in a divorce proceeding is the distribution of assets. How assets like vehicles, property and possessions are distributed in a divorce depends on the state’s property laws. A state has different approaches for the division of property. For example, some states adhere to community property laws while others adhere to equitable distribution. The court will decide how assets are distributed if both parties cannot come to an agreement.

Do custody arrangements need to be settled before a divorce is finalized?

Custodial disputes are common in a divorce. One or both spouses might have differing preferences or attitudes when it comes to who has custody of their child. A custody agreement must be determined before a judge can approve the divorce. This can extend the time it takes to complete the divorce. If you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement, you can talk to a lawyer to determine possible options so that your divorce can be finalized.

Do I need to hire a lawyer?

It is beneficial to hire a lawyer if you are going through divorce, because the process can be complex and there can be a number of hurdles. While you don’t need to hire a lawyer if you are going through divorce, it offers many advantages. There are many steps that need to be completed and it can get overwhelming, so they can ensure that you go through your divorce smoothly. A lawyer can also help you minimize your divorce-related expenses as well.

A trusted divorce lawyer has years of experience assisting clients through the divorce process. If you need legal support and would like to learn more about how a lawyer like one from Patterson Bray PLLC can help you navigate divorce proceedings, don’t wait to take action and get the advice and support that you need. Schedule a risk-free consultation now so that you can get started and receive legal advice.

Separating with your spouse is a complex, painful and difficult experience, as a divorce lawyer in Memphis, TN knows. When a marriage ends, you will have to make many decisions regarding who your assets will be distributed, as well as decide on custody agreements. As a divorce lawyer in Memphis, TN like one at Patterson Bray PLLC can explain, the process can be highly emotional, and often require careful and lengthy deliberation. If you need help going through a divorce, learn more about your options.

Patterson Bray

20+ Years of Experience

24/7 Call Answering

Nashville & Memphis Offices

We're Here to Help

Reach out to Patterson Bray and an attorney will follow up with you soon.

Client Reviews

    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nancy Wallace 
 1 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking to do estate planning, go with Patterson Bray! They are excellent to deal with!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cheryl Adkins 
 2 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved the staff at Patterson Bray.  Everyone was very professional.  Judith was very thorough and explained everything extremely well.  We would recommend Patterson Bray to anyone.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Hailey Wade 
 26 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC did an excellent job with my grandmother's estate planning, and made everything easy to understand! She recommended them to a friend who went and is also very satisfied with their services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Deb Clark 
 31 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with this firm, particularly Judith Denham has been truly exceptional.  From the consultation to the finish, the attention to detail, listening and responding to my needs.  My documents were completed timely and professionally.  I highly recommend Patterson Bray.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tanya White 
 31 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PattersonBray Estate Planning was an incredible firm to work with setting up our Trust. Judith Denham was thorough, very smart, and personable as she patiently explained each part.  Gabby put together  a very professional beautiful binder for us to have, and has answered questions we have had since  then. I am so glad they were recommended to us, and we had them to walk us through this procedure.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Charmaine Sego 
 32 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray did a great job with my mother's trust.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Phil Chamberlain 
 48 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC - first class lawyers.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Catherine McGee 
 68 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Heath Taylor was a genuine joy to work with during my divorce: straight forward, professional, and knowledgeable. I do hope I never have the need to acquire more legal help, but if I do, he'll be my first call. Thank you for everything, Heath!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marva Johnson 
 74 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I FOUND PATTERSON BRAY AND JUDITH DENHAM TO BE PROFESSIONAL, VERY THOROUGH, AND PERSONAL. I DID NOT FEEL LIKE A CLIENT, BUT A PERSON. I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THEM, ESPECIALLY JUDITH AND GABBY. VERY GRATEFUL FOR ASSISTANCE.
M.JOHNSON
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Pam Nicole 
 75 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We set up a trust with Judith, at Patterson Bray and we received excellent service. Everything was explained thoroughly and everyone was very friendly and professional. I would definitely use her and the firm again, if needed.

View All

Legal Options After the Frayser Shooting

Two men were hospitalized in life-threatening condition after a shooting in the Frayser neighborhood of Memphis on Wednesday afternoon. Police say the suspects fled on foot, and no one has...

Read This Blog

How do I ensure my child’s inheritance is protected from divorce?

Transcript: 00:00:00 There's a few ways that parents typically leave their children their inheritances. I would say most typically parents tend to leave their adult children their inheritance outright....

Read This Blog

How do I file a probate case in Tennessee?

Transcript: 00:00:00 So, probate is initiated in the county where the deceased resided at the time of their death. And this is done by filing a petition to open...

Read This Blog

How Long Does Divorce Take?

How are assets distributed?

Do custody arrangements need to be settled before a divorce is finalized?

Do I need to hire a lawyer?

Patterson Bray

Blog & News

Legal Options After the Frayser Shooting

How do I ensure my child’s inheritance is protected from divorce?

How do I file a probate case in Tennessee?