Can Fathers Win Child Custody Battles in Tennessee?

A common misconception is that there is a strong preference in child custody being awarded to the mother. However, in the last few decades the dynamics of custody has changed dramatically. With women and men having more equal roles at work and in the home, the child custody battleground has changed significantly. More fathers are hiring Nashville father’s rights attorneys and aggressively seeking custody with great success.

This shift towards custody equality in Tennessee began in 1997 with the passage of a statute that stated that a parent’s gender should not impact a determination of primary custody to either parent. Tennessee Code Annotated 36-6-412 was a pivotal step in the right direction for father’s rights. While statistics show a clear preference for mothers as primary caretakers, there are particular circumstances that can explain the inflated numbers. Infants are often placed with mothers due to breastfeeding needs and availability of maternity leave. Fathers who are seeking primary custody should not let the statistics deter them from contacting an experienced Nashville father’s rights attorney. With a more even playing field between mothers and fathers, there is nothing that can stop you from winning primary residential custody.

When there is a request for child custody, the court looks at what is in the best interest of the child, the parent’s ability to support the child both financially and emotionally, and any concerning past history that would impact the child’s safety. The ultimate goal is to have the child in a stable environment where they can feel secure and grow. The requirements of an emotionally, financially, and safe home can be met effectively by either parent. This shift is a testament to how far we have come with gender equality and the understanding that both mothers and fathers can both be loving and supporting parents.

Even with this movement towards parental equality, there are still some tough obstacles and biases that fathers face when seeking custody. It is crucial that you are adequately prepared for a custody battle. Choose a Nashville father’s rights attorney that understands the special complexities that arise in child custody. If you are a father seeking custody, it is important that you discuss your case with an experienced Nashville father’s rights attorney. Attorney Tiffany Johns at Middle Tennessee Family Law offers aggressive and compassionate legal representation for fathers seeking custody of their children. To discuss your case, call our office or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.