About Law Office of Chelse B. Reed — General Practice Dayton Tennessee
The Law Office of Chelse B. Reed provides General Practice Dayton legal services to Rhea County residents, covering civil, family, and criminal matters. The office on First Avenue also serves nearby Spring City, Pikeville, and outlying communities in the Tennessee Valley. Additionally, reviewers note the firm’s willingness to research cross-state legal questions for clients new to the area of Dayton, Tennessee.
The practice operates weekdays from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM and offers candid case evaluations — sometimes declining to take matters that lack legal merit. Reviewers specifically credit Chelse Reed with refusing to take fees unless a real legal strategy existed. Consequently, clients often return for other matters once the initial issue is resolved.
What Clients Say
Clients describe Chelse Reed as knowledgeable, honest, and responsive, with several highlighting quick divorce resolutions and full custody outcomes. Reviewers mention that she researches unfamiliar legal questions and consults outside jurisdictions when required. However, a negative review exists, so discuss communication protocols and case scope carefully at intake.
General Practice Dayton — Practice Areas & Services
- Family law: divorce, custody, and support filed in Rhea County Circuit and Chancery Courts.
- Criminal matters: misdemeanor and lower-level felony defense work for Rhea County residents.
- Civil and estate issues: contracts, landlord-tenant, and simple estate administration cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Tennessee divorce take?
Tennessee requires a 60-day waiting period for childless couples and 90 days for couples with minor children. A general practice Dayton attorney can often finalize uncontested cases close to the statutory minimum.
What are typical fees?
Uncontested matters may be handled on flat fees, while contested divorces and custody cases bill hourly. Ask whether the retainer is refundable and how trust account withdrawals are documented.
Where are Rhea County cases heard?
Civil and family matters are filed at the Rhea County Courthouse in Dayton. The Rhea County General Sessions Court handles preliminary criminal matters and smaller civil claims below the statutory limit.
Quick Facts: General Practice in Dayton, Tennessee
- Tennessee Courts: Rhea County is part of the 12th Judicial District — Tennessee State Courts
- Divorce waiting period: 60 or 90 days depending on minor children — Tenn. Code §36-4-101
- Small claims: General Sessions Court civil jurisdiction runs to $25,000 — Tenn. Code §16-15-501


