In the absence of child abuse and neglect issues, a person seeking to modify a child custody order or Permanent Parenting Plan must file a Petition to Modify the Order or Permanent Parenting Plan in the court where the original order occurred, and show as a threshold...
child custody
How should I address co-parenting issues during the holidays?
While the holidays usually involve families coming together, this time of year can be tough for divorced couples. This is especially true for divorced couples with children, who will need to navigate scheduling conflicts in a way that best benefits their kids. U.S....
What support systems are in place for grandparent caregivers?
If you are the grandparent of a child whose parents have gone through a divorce, and neither parent is deemed fit to care for the child, it is possible you have become the child’s primary guardian. In Tennessee, “kinship care” is another term that is used for foster...
Do you need permission to move out of Tennessee after a custody battle?
It is not unheard of for a parent to relocate with his or her child after a divorce. When you plan to relocate with a child, it is crucial to remember that your choice will affect the other parent. For this reason, Tennessee Code states that you will need permission...
What are parenting responsibilities?
As you are considering your negotiations for the parenting plan during your Tennessee divorce, you may hear the words, “parenting responsibilities.” The Tennessee statutes define these words very specifically when it comes to activities and behaviors that foster a...
A parenting agreement provides an ounce of prevention
The laws of Tennessee clearly outline the rights and responsibilities of married couples who choose to divorce, both to one another and to their children. However, we at have observed that the laws have not always kept up with the...
More than time plays a role in custody arrangements
When you're looking at a future filled with visitation and custody, you want to know that you're doing what's best for your child. It's not always what's most apparent that's truly what's best for your child's health and happiness, though. You might think it's your...
Co-parenting: You might find this a natural option
A divorce doesn't mean that the adults are going to stop parenting the children they have together. Instead, they are going to need to continue working as a team to parent the children after the divorce. The courts will help create a child custody arrangement that...
Custody in Tennessee: A child’s best interests
Child custody is an important topic among parents who are splitting up or divorcing. Whether you're married or not, your child's care depends on the plan you create. It is always vital that you do what is in the best interests of your child at all times. The majority...
Can you leave a home with your kids if your spouse is abusive?
If you are in an abusive or dangerous relationship, something you should consider is getting away from your spouse and fleeing. If you have children, you may believe that leaving with your children could lead to charges of parental kidnapping, but that's not the case....