Murfreesboro Child Custody Lawyer

Protecting The Best Interests Of Your Children Throughout Rutherford County

Going through a divorce is never easy, especially when children are involved. Not only are you dealing with the emotional and financial impact of the divorce on your life, but you must also make tough decisions about what is in the best interest of your child. Your child will no longer have both parents living with them on a full-time basis. Decisions must be made regarding which parent will have custody and how visitation will be assigned.

Our skilled family law attorneys are high-experienced representing clients with their various needs. For instance, a client can be going through a tough divorce that may also include support, parental rights, child custody, and spousal support matters. Child custody can be one of the most sensitive and highly contested issues in a divorce proceeding. Our child custody lawyers in Murfreesboro will fight to ensure that your rights and your child’s rights are protected as the court determines what is in the best interest of your child.

Are you in need of legal representation for your child custody matter? Call Santel | Garner, today at (615) 987-0268 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our child custody attorney in Murfreesboro.

Conducting Child Custody Terms & Arrangements

The overriding principle in all custody cases is what is in the best interest of the child. If parents can agree on the terms of custody, the court will generally incorporate those terms into a Permanent Parenting Plan, provided the court agrees that the proposed custody arrangement is in the best interest of the child. When parents cannot agree on custody matters, the court must determine this based on the evidence presented in court.

What Are the Types of Child Custody In Tennessee?

In Tennessee, child custody can be a complex and sensitive issue, and understanding the types of child custody arrangements available can help parents navigate the legal process more effectively. There are several types of child custody recognized in Tennessee:

1. Physical Custody:
Physical custody refers to the parent with whom the child will primarily reside. It can be:

• Sole Physical Custody: The child resides with one parent, and the other parent typically has visitation rights.
• Joint Physical Custody: The child resides with both parents, dividing their time between each parent's home.

2. Legal Custody: Legal custody refers to a parent's authority to make significant decisions about the child's upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.

• Sole Legal Custody: One parent has the exclusive right to make major decisions for the child.
• Joint Legal Custody: Both parents share the responsibility of making significant decisions about the child's welfare.

3. Temporary Custody:
Temporary custody can be awarded during the divorce or separation proceedings until a final custody agreement is determined.

4. Visitation or Parenting Time:
Even if one parent has primary physical custody, the non-custodial parent is usually granted visitation or parenting time to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child.

Navigating child custody issues can be challenging, and consulting with an experienced Murfreesboro child custody lawyer attorney can help parents understand their rights and options and work towards a custody arrangement that serves the child's best interests.

How is Child Custody Determined in Tennessee?

In order to determine what is in the best interest of a child in a custody case, the judge must consider relevant factors as outlined in Tennessee’s child custody laws.

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 the statute, which include:

• The existing bonds between the parents and the child
• The parent's willingness to provide the child with food, shelter, clothing, medical care, education, and other necessary care
• The effect of continuity in the child’s life and the length of time the child has resided in a stable environment, provided there are no allegations and findings of abuse
• The stability of each parent
• The physical and mental health of each parent
• The school, home, and community records for the child
• Preferences of children 12 years of age or older; however, the court may hear the preference of younger children by request
• Evidence of child abuse, spousal abuse, or abuse to any other person
• The character of other people living in the home or regularly visiting the home
• The past and potential future performance by each parent with regard to parenting responsibilities and the willingness to encourage and foster a close and loving relationship between the child and the other parent

Guidance on Modifying Child Custody Agreements

At Santel Garner, PLLC, our experienced child custody attorneys in Murfreesboro understand that circumstances can change after a custody agreement has been established. Whether you are seeking to modify custody arrangements due to a change in living situation, work schedule, or your child's needs, we can help guide you through the legal process.

Key points to consider when modifying a child custody agreement:

• Evaluate the reason for the modification request
• Ensure the proposed changes are in the best interests of the child
• Consult with a knowledgeable attorney to navigate the legal requirements
• Petition the court for a modification hearing
• Present evidence and arguments supporting the requested changes

Our team is dedicated to protecting the well-being of your children and advocating for your parental rights. Contact Santel Garner, PLLC today to discuss your child custody modification needs.

Contact Our Child Custody Attorneys in Murfreesboro Today

Any experienced Murfreesboro child custody attorney at Santel | Garner, understands that you want to protect your child and do what is best for them. When you and your spouse do not agree on what is in the best interest of your child, it is important to have an attorney who is committed to effectively representing your interests and your child’s interests.

Contact us online or call (615) 987-0268, today to get started with our Murfreesboro child custody lawyer.