Child Custody Guidelines in Tennessee

In Tennessee, child custody issues can be resolved by negotiation, mediation or through the courts. At the Middle Tennessee Family Law, our lawyers strongly believe that two parents can reach a better decision than a stranger in a black robe. For this reason, our goal is to help you reach a negotiated agreement about how you will parent your children after divorce. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

Child custody and support issues can arise in a divorce as well as in a paternity action involving unmarried parents.

Legal Custody and Physical Custody

There are two types of child custody in Tennessee:

• Legal custody, which is the right to make important decisions about issues such as your child’s medical care, education and religious upbringing

• Physical custody, which is where your child will live

Legal custody is usually shared, unless there are strong reasons why one parent should not have input into decisions. Many different physical custody arrangements are possible. In most cases, the child has a home base with one parent and then sees the other according to a visitation schedule. However, 50-50 joint custody plans are possible, as are split custody plans where each parent has custody of one or more children.

Learn more about fathers’ rights in child custody disputes.

Tennessee Child Support Guidelines

Child support in Tennessee is calculated using a formula that considers each parent’s income, the number of children supported, and how many overnights the child spends with each parent.

Child Support and Custody Modifications

Both child support and child custody can be modified after divorce if there is a significant change in your circumstances. Our lawyers can assist you with modifications as well as enforcement actions if your ex isn’t paying child support or providing visitation. We can also represent you in cases of child relocation.

Child Relocation Actions

Thinking a move is in your future? Need to pursue educational or career opportunities? In Tennessee, if you move more than 50 miles from your co-parent you must seek an agreement between the parties or permission from the court. Contact us for getting your relocation started.

Free Consultation: Child Custody Attorney Serving Nashville and Surrounding Areas.

To speak to a Nashville child custody attorney at our firm, call or send us an e-mail using the form on this website. We are located in the Pilcher Building in historic downtown Nashville.