A marital dissolution agreement, once finalized and incorporated into a divorce decree in Tennessee, is generally considered a binding contract. This means that the terms agreed upon by both parties regarding property division, spousal support, child custody, and other relevant matters are typically enforceable. However, certain circumstances may provide grounds for seeking to alter or overturn the agreement. The ability to modify such an agreement hinges on specific legal standards and the nature of the issues involved.
The stability provided by final judgments in divorce cases is a cornerstone of the legal system. Enforcing these agreements promotes predictability and reduces prolonged conflict. Parties entering into such agreements rely on the understanding that the terms will be honored. The historical context reveals a movement towards encouraging negotiated settlements in divorce, aiming to reduce court congestion and empower individuals to tailor arrangements suitable to their specific needs. Courts, however, retain the authority to ensure agreements are fair and equitable, particularly concerning child welfare.
