TENNESSEE Part 18

If the Respondent fails to file an Answer in 30 days, the Petitioner may file for a default against him or her. In some counties, this a two-step process, first filing the Motion at one hearing and second the Order at another hearing, at which the Final Decree (Default), Form 410, is also presented. A spouse seeking a Default Order is nevertheless obligated to inform his or her spouse of the divorce even if he or she has not entered an appearance.