When you’re considering divorce, it’s important to be aware of all options before settling on separation, whether that be through litigation or on amicable terms. One thing that should never been immediately ruled out is reconciliation — if there’s any chance that your marriage can still survive with a little work, then that’s a clear sign that reconciliation should be attempted.
Even if there’s absolutely no doubt in your mind that divorce is imminent, Tennessee state law requires minimum waiting periods between divorce filing and resolution so that couples have a chance to “cool off.”
Reconciliation periods in Tennessee can have minimum lengths of either 60 or 90 days. Based on the particular circumstances, a judge will decide which timeframe is most reasonable for allowing the opportunity for spouses to seek alternatives and escape the tension of the initial divorce complaint
In the eyes of Tennessee lawmakers, reconciling a marriage is always preferable to divorce even if the separation is uncontested. For this reason, state law maintains that the judge presiding over a given Tennessee divorce case can order that all proceedings be suspended to allow for an attempt at reconciliation.
In order for such a suspension to be permitted, both spouses have to be on the same page. Put a different way, either spouse must sign a declaration which states that they have both agreed to attempt reconciliation.
If such a suspension is ordered, then it’s as though the divorce isn’t happening. Spouses can resume living together and acting like they’re married without fear of committing some sort of misconduct which would compromise the legitimacy of their potential divorce.
Such suspensions may persist until reconciliation is decided or one spouse’s party files a motion to return to divorce proceedings.
One time-tested method of fixing a broken marriage is to engage actively in marriage counseling. It should be noted that “marriage counseling” is a bit of a misleading term — any intimate couple can attempt marriage counseling to heal their relationship, regardless of whether they’re actually married.
In marriage counseling sessions, a professional psychotherapist acts as a sort of mediator for any issues that might be causing harm to a relationship. This could mean adultery, sexual problems or impotency, monetary stresses, parenting disagreements, and even issues as simple as bad communication.
Marriage counseling should be considered both prior to and during the divorce process. If a suspension of divorce proceedings is granted in order to attempt reconciliation, marriage counseling is probably a good way to make sure that time is well-used.
At Turner Law Offices, P.C., our team of attorneys has years of experience helping married couples, both heterosexual and same-sex, to fix a wide range of issues that might lead to divorce. Whether you’re considering separation or are in the midst of proceedings, we know the best means of arranging a mutually acceptable attempt at reconciling a relationship that might not have to die.
The first consultation is always free, so don’t wait to call our offices, or go online to set up an appointment. A skilled lawyer is ready and waiting to hear your case and get you on track toward the best possible resolution.
