Rutherford County Child Custody Lawyers

Tennessee family lawyers advocate for the best interests of children of divorce

The best interests of a couple's children take priority in addressing matters of child custody after divorce. All states begin with the presumption that it is best for a child to have regular and continued contact with both parents after a divorce. In most cases, judges support joint child custody arrangements. The experienced family lawyers at Taylor Law Group Attorneys at Law in Rutherford County skillfully guide divorcing couples through the child custody process, working together in advocating for the best interests of the children.

What factors are considered when deciding who gets custody of the children in Rutherford County?

When deciding child custody issues, all courts are guided by the “best interests of the child”. However, what constitutes the best interests of a child in that particular situation depends upon several factors, including:

• the child's age, sex, and mental and physical health
• mental and physical health of the parent
• the parent's ability to provide the child with clothing, food, shelter and medical care
• the parent's lifestyle
• any history of child abuse
• the emotional bond between parent and child
• quality of the child's current education
• the child's established living pattern with regard to school, home, and community
• impact on child of changing the status quo
• the child's preference, if above a certain age

Providing none of these factors favor one parent over the other, the courts generally focus on which parent is most likely to provide a stable environment for the child, and which parent will advocate for the child's relationship with the other parent. In the case of younger children, the courts may award custody to the child's primary caregiving parent. For older children, custody may be awarded to the parent who is most capable of fostering continuity in education, religious institutions, neighborhood life, and peer relationships.

Grounds for divorce in Tennessee

Tennessee is a mixed state. What this means is that individuals filing for divorce can use either fault or no-fault grounds as the basis for the divorce. Spouses who have been separated for at least two years can also use this separation as grounds for divorce. In contested child custody cases, it can be advantageous to use fault grounds as the basis of the divorce.

Don't battle child custody issues alone, contact our compassionate Rutherford County child custody lawyers for guidance

Filing for divorce is emotional. Battling over child custody issues with your spouse can be particularly painful. The nationally-ranked Rutherford County trial attorneys at Taylor Law Group Attorneys at Law understand the complexities of divorce and are experienced and knowledgeable in all areas of divorce law. Throughout the divorce process, our dedicated team is with you through every step of the way – from filing the initial divorce papers, to addressing child custody and support issues, until the divorce is final. Meet with us for a free consultation to discuss your situation. Contact our Rutherford County office today at 615-890-1982 or online. Weekend and evening appointments are available upon request for your convenience.