Nashville Child Custody Lawyer

Yes, Tennessee is a 50/50 custody state. 

This means that the court will generally award joint physical custody to both parents unless there is a plausible reason not to do so. Legal joint and physical custody mean the child will spend substantial time with both parents, typically on a week-on/week-off basis. 

However, it is essential to note that 50/50 custody is not always in the child's best interests. The court will consider all of the factors involved in the case, including the child's age, the parent's ability to cooperate, and the child's relationship with each parent when deciding custody. 

If you are concerned about child custody, it is crucial to speak with our lawyer. OurNashville child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in court if necessary.

Sole vs. Joint Custody in Tennessee

In Tennessee, child custody decisions are made based on the best interests of the child. When deciding on custody arrangements, the court takes into account several factors, such as the child's bond with each parent, each parent's capability to meet the child's needs, and the child's adaptation to their home, school, and community. The two primary types of custody arrangements in Tennessee are sole custody and joint custody, each with its own set of benefits and considerations.

Sole Custody:

• One parent is granted primary physical and legal custody of the child, and the non-custodial parent typically has visitation rights.
• Benefits:
  • Provides stability and consistency for the child by having one primary residence.
  • Minimizes potential disputes between parents concerning decision-making.
  • Ensures the child's needs are consistently met by the custodial parent.

Joint Custody:

• Both parents share physical and/or legal custody of the child, requiring cooperation and communication between parents.
• Benefits:
  • Enables the child to sustain strong bonds with both parents.
  • Encourages shared responsibility and decision-making in the child's upbringing.
  • Promotes a sense of security and well-being for the child by having ongoing involvement from both parents.

The choice between sole and joint custody in Tennessee depends on the specific circumstances of each family. It is essential to consider the child's best interests and the ability of the parents to cooperate and communicate effectively when determining the most suitable custody arrangement. Consulting with an experienced Nashville child custody attorney can provide guidance and support in navigating the complexities of child custody laws in Tennessee.

Unmarried fathers must prove a paternity test in Tennessee, while mothers who are not married and gave birth automatically obtain full custody of their child. Once a paternity test is confirmed, fathers can claim their legal parental rights, which includes custody or parenting time if the couple lives separately.