The first step in any adoption proceeding is terminating the parental rights of the biological parents. You must terminate both biological parents’ rights unless you are pursuing a stepparent adoption. The petitioner must prove at least one of the legal…
In child welfare cases, legal advocates may represent families, typically parents, before a child is removed from the home or a petition is filed for abuse or neglect. This legal representation prior to petition aims to keep the family together,…
All child support payments must be paid to the State Disbursement Unit, P.O. Box 305200, Nashville, TN 37229. The payor’s TCSES number must be included on the payment. Do not send cash! The following credit cards may be used to…
Tennessee is an “equitable distribution” state, which means that the judge has the right to distribute marital property fairly, which might not be a 50/50 split. For example, the court may give a stay at home mom more property because…
Child custody decisions consider the “best interests of the child standard.” This child centered approach has been around for a long time but, what’s considered “best” has changed over the years. If you’re divorcing now, don’t expect that the courts…
Each parent has an obligation to support their children in Tennessee. In most cases money is given to the parent with primary custody. To find how much you’re likely to pay or receive for child support, you need to examine…
What is a Tennessee Parenting Plan? When a couple with children divorces in Tennessee, the court requires the parents to detail how the children will be cared for when the divorce is final. The plan must include how time will…
The loss of parental rights is most parent’s nightmares, but in cases where parents are abusive, neglectful or absent, it can be the opportunity for the child to have a greatly improved life. Foster parents or family members that have…
Everybody knows how important it is to know what your rights are before signing any contract. If a spouse suggests “keeping lawyers out of it,” you should seek a consultation with an experienced Tennessee divorce attorney. It is important to…
The NITA Advocate designation is awarded to persons who have taken a well-rounded set of courses, proving they are serious about trial advocacy, ethical legal practices and a fair justice system