Child Custody Attorneys
in Knoxville, Tennessee
How Is Child Custody Decided in Tennessee?
Under Tennessee law, all court orders that involve minor children must also contain a parenting plan that establishes the authority and responsibility of each parent regarding the children. Without the assistance of a child custody attorney in Knoxville, TN, it can be difficult to negotiate a plan during an emotional divorce.
Whether it be an initial custody determination as part of a divorce or following the establishment of paternity, a modification of an existing parenting plan, or a modification of the primary residential parent, Tennessee courts are tasked with making custody decisions that serve the best interest of the child at issue in the case. In Tennessee, the court shall order a custody arrangement that permits both parents to enjoy the maximum participation possible in the life of the child consistent with the factors set forth in T.C.A. §36-6-106. We encourage you to review T.C.A. §36-6-106 and educate themselves on the factors that judges and chancellors consider when deciding your case.
In an initial custody determination, most commonly as part of a divorce or following a paternity determination, the court will conduct a comparative fitness evaluation in accordance with T.C.A. §36-6-106. The court will then issue findings of facts and conclusions of law detailing the court’s analysis of the proof in your case and reasons for its ruling. The court is then required to enter an order naming one parent as the “primary residential parent” (PRP) and the other as the “alternative residential parent” (ARP).
After an initial custody order is entered by the court, a parent can file a petition seeking to change the primary residential parent or modify the existing parenting plan. In order to prevail, a parent will need to first prove that a material change of circumstances exists and then that the best interest of the child is served by ordering a change of the PRP or modification of the parenting plan.
Just as every child is different, every custody case is as well. Do not make the mistake of speaking with a friend about his or her case and thinking you will be successful using the same strategy. We encourage you to be represented by an experienced attorney from the beginning of this process. We will counsel you on how Tennessee law applies to the specific facts of your case and help you organize your proof to put yourself in the best position for mediation and trial.
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In Knoxville, What Information Is Used to Decide Child Custody?
It’s true that the judge doesn’t know your children, but child custody decisions are not make made randomly. When deciding child custody, the court will take into account a whole host of factors, and they all relate to making sure your kids are physically and emotionally secure.
These include:
Each parent’s ability to provide
Each parent’s level of involvement in parenting responsibilities
Each parent’s mental and physical health
Each parent’s job status
Your child or children’s emotional and physical needs
Your child or children’s preference (if they’re at least 12)
Your child or children’s relationship with each parent
Your child or children’s relationship with their siblings, step-siblings, and extended family
Your child or children’s ties to the community and school
**Any other factors that might be relevant
What Is Included in a Child Custody Order?
You should be as specific and detailed as possible in your parenting plan. It’s important that you know what to expect, but it’s even more crucial that your child knows what to expect. The more detailed the order, the less likely there will be a dispute.
Some things your parenting plan should include are:
Child Exchanges, Drop-Off(s), Pickup(s), & Transportation
Holiday Visitation Schedule(s)
How will the Child or Children be Financially Supported
Moving or Relocation Issues
Physical & Legal Custody
School Vacation Schedule(s)
Contact a Knoxville Child Custody Attorney for Help
At Wykes & Sikes, PLLC, we have helped many families throughout the Knoxville area create child custody plans. Let our over 50 years of combined experience work for you – contact a Knoxville child custody lawyer TODAY for help!