Tennessee Child Custody: A Complete Legal Guide for Parents (2024)

Last Updated: January 2024 | Tennessee Code Annotated Title 36, Chapter 6

Navigating child custody laws in Tennessee can be overwhelming for parents facing divorce, separation, or paternity proceedings. This comprehensive guide explains how Tennessee courts determine custody, the different types of custody arrangements, the legal standards applied, and your rights as a parent under Tennessee law.

Quick Answer: Tennessee courts determine child custody based on the "best interests of the child" standard as defined in T.C.A. § 36-6-106. As of 2024, there is a legal presumption favoring joint legal custody and equal parenting time unless serious concerns exist that would harm the child.

Important Legal Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Child custody cases are fact-specific, and outcomes vary based on individual circumstances. Tennessee laws change periodically. For advice about your specific situation, consult a qualified Tennessee family law attorney licensed to practice in your county.

Types of Child Custody in Tennessee
Tennessee Custody Statutes and Legal Framework
The Best Interests of the Child Standard
How Tennessee Courts Determine Custody
The Tennessee Parenting Plan Requirement
Modifying Child Custody Orders in Tennessee
Parental Relocation Laws in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions

Types of Child Custody in Tennessee

Tennessee law recognizes two distinct categories of custody: legal custody and physical custody. Understanding the difference between these categories is essential for any parent navigating the Tennessee family court system.

Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody

Legal Custody refers to a parent's right to make major life decisions for their child. These decisions typically include:

Educational choices (schools, tutoring, special education services)
Medical and healthcare decisions (doctors, surgeries, medications)
Religious upbringing and instruction
Extracurricular activities
Mental health and counseling services
Passport and travel authorizations

Physical Custody refers to where the child lives and spends their time on a day-to-day basis. It determines which parent provides the child's primary residence and handles daily care routines.

Sole Legal Custody

Sole legal custody means one parent has the exclusive authority to make major decisions about the child's life without needing to consult the other parent. Tennessee courts may award sole legal custody when:

One parent is deemed unfit due to substance abuse, mental illness, or domestic violence
One parent has been absent from the child's life and has not established a meaningful relationship
There is a history of inability to communicate between parents that would harm the child
One parent poses a danger to the child's physical or emotional well-being

Even with sole legal custody, the other parent typically retains rights to visitation or parenting time unless the court finds that such contact would be harmful to the child.

Joint Legal Custody

Joint legal custody means both parents share decision-making authority for major life decisions. This arrangement requires parents to:

Communicate regularly about important matters affecting the child
Consult each other before making significant decisions
Work cooperatively in the child's best interests

Joint legal custody is the most common arrangement in Tennessee and is now presumed to be in the child's best interests as of 2024 legislative updates. This presumption can be overcome if evidence shows that shared decision-making would harm the child.

Sole Physical Custody

Sole physical custody means the child lives primarily with one parent, known as the "primary residential parent." The child spends the majority of their time (typically more than 50%) with this parent.

In sole physical custody arrangements:

The child has one primary home
The other parent typically has a parenting time schedule (visitation)
The primary residential parent receives child support from the non-custodial parent
Day-to-day decisions are made by the parent with whom the child is currently residing

Joint Physical Custody

Joint physical custody means the child splits residential time between both parents in a manner that allows both parents substantial and meaningful time with the child. This does not necessarily mean an exact 50/50 split, but rather a schedule that gives both parents significant involvement in the child's daily life.

Joint physical custody arrangements can include:

Alternating week schedules (one week with each parent)
2-2-3 schedules (2 days with each parent, alternating 3-day weekends)
2-2-5-5 schedules (2 days with one parent, 2 days with the other, then 5 days alternating)
Alternate schedules customized to the family's needs

Combined Custody Arrangements

Tennessee courts can combine legal and physical custody in various ways to serve the child's best interests:

Legal Custody	Physical Custody	Common Name
Joint	Joint	True Joint Custody (50/50)
Joint	Sole	Shared Decision-Making, One Primary Home
Sole	Sole	One Parent Has All Authority
Sole	Joint	Rare; One Parent Decides, Child Lives With Both

Key Point: As of July 2024, Tennessee courts now presume that joint legal custody and equal parenting time are in a child's best interests unless serious concerns exist. This represents a significant shift toward maximizing both parents' involvement in their children's lives.

Tennessee Custody Statutes and Legal Framework

Tennessee child custody law is primarily governed by Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) Title 36, Chapter 6. Understanding these statutes is essential for parents navigating custody proceedings.

T.C.A. § 36-6-101: Decree for Custody and Support

T.C.A. § 36-6-101 establishes the foundational authority of Tennessee courts to issue decrees for child custody and support. Key provisions include:

Courts may issue custody decrees in cases of annulment, divorce, legal separation, and other proceedings involving minor children
Juvenile courts have jurisdiction over custody matters involving dependent, neglected, or abused children
There is a presumption of parental fitness—parents are presumed fit unless proven otherwise
Courts may require parents to attend educational seminars on the impact of divorce on children

T.C.A. § 36-6-106: Child Custody Determinations

T.C.A. § 36-6-106 is the primary statute governing how courts determine custody arrangements. The key principle states:

> "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 child's best interests."

This statutory mandate reflects Tennessee's strong public policy in favor of both parents maintaining meaningful relationships with their children after separation or divorce.

T.C.A. § 36-6-404: Permanent Parenting Plans

T.C.A. § 36-6-404 governs the creation, submission, and approval of permanent parenting plans. Every final custody order in Tennessee must include a detailed parenting plan that addresses:

A decision-making arrangement (sole or joint legal custody)
A residential schedule (where the child lives each day of the year)
A parenting time schedule for holidays, birthdays, school breaks, and summer vacation
Provisions for child support and health insurance
A dispute resolution mechanism for future disagreements
Provisions for communication between parents and children

The Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts has developed standardized parenting plan forms that must be used consistently by courts throughout Tennessee.

T.C.A. § 36-6-108: Parental Relocation

T.C.A. § 36-6-108 establishes the requirements and procedures for parental relocation. This statute applies when a parent with existing parenting time wishes to move:

More than 50 miles from their current residence within Tennessee, OR
Outside the state of Tennessee entirely

The relocation statute contains strict notice requirements and establishes the burden of proof for parents seeking to move with their children.

2024 Legislative Updates

Tennessee family law underwent significant updates in 2024, including:

Public Chapter 511, which amended T.C.A. § 36-6-301(a) regarding residential requirements for filing divorce
New amendments to T.C.A. § 36-6-106(a) clarifying best interest factors
Enhanced provisions addressing evidence of abuse in custody determinations

Parents should be aware that custody laws continue to evolve, and staying current with legislative changes is important when navigating custody matters.

The Best Interests of the Child Standard

The cornerstone of Tennessee child custody law is the "best interests of the child" standard. This standard is not defined by what parents want, but rather by what serves the child's developmental, emotional, and physical needs.

What Is the Best Interests Standard?

The best interests standard requires Tennessee courts to make custody decisions based on what will best promote the child's:

Physical health and safety
Emotional well-being
Developmental needs
Stability and continuity of relationships
Educational needs

Unlike some states that have a specific list of statutory factors, Tennessee law provides courts flexibility to consider all relevant circumstances when determining a child's best interests.

Key Factors Tennessee Courts Consider

While Tennessee law does not mandate a specific list of factors, courts consistently consider the following when determining custody:

1. Relationship Quality and Stability

Courts examine the strength, nature, and stability of the child's relationship with each parent. This includes:

Which parent has been the primary caregiver historically
The emotional bonds between the child and each parent
Each parent's ability to provide love, affection, and guidance
Whether one parent has shouldered the majority of parenting responsibilities

2. Continuity and Stability

Tennessee courts highly value continuity in a child's life. They consider whether each parent has demonstrated stability in meeting the child's:

Basic material needs (food, clothing, shelter)
Educational needs (school enrollment, educational support)
Housing stability (consistent residence)
Safety and emotional needs (safe environment, emotional support)

Disrupting established routines and relationships is avoided unless necessary for the child's well-being.

3. Each Parent's Ability to Cooperate

Courts assess each parent's willingness and ability to:

Facilitate a relationship between the child and the other parent
Communicate effectively about the child's needs
Put the child's needs above their own conflicts
Follow court orders and parenting plans

A parent who attempts to alienate the child from the other parent or refuses to cooperate may be penalized in custody determinations.

4. The Child's Wishes (When Appropriate)

While there is no specific age at which a child can choose which parent to live with, Tennessee courts may consider a mature child's reasonable preference. The weight given to a child's preference depends on:

The child's age and maturity level
The reasons for the preference
Whether the preference is based on legitimate factors or inappropriate influences

5. Evidence of Abuse or Neglect

Tennessee courts take evidence of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence very seriously. Findings of abuse can significantly impact custody decisions and may result in:

Sole custody being awarded to the non-abusive parent
Supervised visitation for the abusive parent
Termination of parental rights in extreme cases

6. Geographic Considerations

The distance between parents' homes and the impact of travel on the child may be considered, especially when:

Parents live in different school districts
One parent wishes to relocate
The child's school and extracurricular activities would be affected

The Maximum Participation Mandate

Under T.C.A. § 36-6-106, Tennessee courts are directed to order custody arrangements that:

> "permit both parents to enjoy the maximum participation possible in the life of the child"

This statutory directive reinforces Tennessee's policy of encouraging both parents to remain actively involved in their children's lives after separation or divorce. The court must balance this mandate against the child's best interests when creating custody arrangements.

How Tennessee Courts Determine Custody

Understanding the court process for determining custody in Tennessee can help parents prepare and navigate the system more effectively.

Step 1: Filing the Initial Petition

Custody proceedings typically begin when one parent files a petition with the appropriate court:

Divorce cases: Filed in Circuit Court or Chancery Court
Paternity cases: Filed in Juvenile Court
Unmarried parents: May file in Juvenile Court or Circuit Court depending on the county

The petition should include requests for custody arrangements, parenting time, child support, and related relief.

Step 2: Mandatory Parent Education

Tennessee law requires parents in contested custody cases to complete a parent education seminar (typically 4 hours) before the final hearing. These seminars cover:

The impact of divorce and separation on children
The importance of co-parenting cooperation
Developmental needs of children
Communication strategies for co-parents

Many Tennessee counties offer the "Parenting Apart" program, which satisfies this requirement. Proof of completion must be filed with the court.

Step 3: Temporary Orders

While the case is pending, either parent may request temporary orders addressing:

Temporary custody arrangements
Temporary parenting time schedules
Temporary child support
Use of the marital home
Payment of bills and expenses

These temporary orders remain in effect until the final hearing or until modified by the court.

Step 4: Mandatory Mediation

Before the first court hearing, Tennessee law generally requires parents to attempt mediation to resolve custody disputes. Under T.C.A. § 36-6-409 and Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31:

Parents must attend mediation with a qualified neutral mediator
The mediator helps parents negotiate a parenting plan
Mediation is confidential—what is said cannot be used in court later
If mediation is unsuccessful, the case proceeds to court

The Parent Education and Mediation Fund (PEMF) may provide mediation services for low-income parties with minor children who qualify financially.

Step 5: Discovery and Investigation

If mediation fails and the case proceeds to court, both parties may engage in discovery to gather information:

Interrogatories: Written questions requiring written answers under oath
Requests for production: Demands for documents and records
Depositions: Sworn testimony taken out of court
Subpoenas: Court orders requiring witnesses to testify or produce documents

In some cases, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem (an attorney representing the child's interests) or order a custody evaluation by a mental health professional.

Step 6: The Final Hearing

If parents cannot reach agreement, the case proceeds to a final hearing before a judge. At the hearing:

Each parent presents evidence and witnesses
The guardian ad litem (if appointed) may testify
The custody evaluator (if appointed) may present findings
The judge may question the parents directly

After hearing all evidence, the judge issues a final custody order that includes a permanent parenting plan.

Step 7: The Permanent Parenting Plan

The final custody order must include a detailed permanent parenting plan addressing all required elements under Tennessee law. Once signed by the judge, this plan becomes a binding court order.

The Tennessee Parenting Plan Requirement

Every Tennessee custody order must include a Permanent Parenting Plan—a detailed document that serves as the blueprint for co-parenting after separation or divorce.

Required Components of a Tennessee Parenting Plan

Under T.C.A. § 36-6-404, a complete parenting plan must include:

1. Decision-Making Authority

The plan must specify whether parents will have:

Sole legal custody (one parent makes major decisions)
Joint legal custody (both parents make decisions together)

For joint legal custody, the plan should specify what happens if parents cannot agree on a decision.

2. Residential Schedule

The plan must establish where the child will live on a day-to-day basis, including:

A regular weekly schedule
Designation of the "primary residential parent" (if applicable)
Transportation arrangements for exchanges

3. Parenting Time Schedule

The plan must include a detailed schedule for the non-residential parent (or both parents in joint physical custody), covering:

Regular parenting time (weekends, weeknights, etc.)
Holiday schedules (alternating, fixed, or divided)
School breaks (winter break, spring break)
Summer vacation (how it's divided between parents)
Special occasions (birthdays, Mother's Day, Father's Day)
Make-up parenting time (what happens if scheduled time is missed)

4. Child Support and Financial Provisions

The plan must address:

Monthly child support obligation
Which parent provides health insurance
How uninsured medical expenses are divided
Tax dependency exemptions

5. Dispute Resolution

The plan must include a procedure for resolving future disagreements, such as:

Required communication methods
Mediation before returning to court
How emergencies are handled

6. Communication Provisions

The plan should specify:

How parents will communicate about the child
Telephone/video call rights for the child and non-residential parent
Access to the child's records (school, medical, activities)

Tennessee Parenting Plan Forms

The Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts has developed standardized parenting plan forms that must be used statewide. These forms are available at TNCourts.gov and include:

Permanent Parenting Plan (for contested and agreed cases)
Temporary Parenting Plan (for use while the case is pending)
Parenting Plan Worksheets (to help calculate parenting time percentages)

Using the correct forms is important because Tennessee law requires consistent formatting across all courts.

Standard Parenting Plan vs. Customized Plan

While Tennessee provides standard forms, parents may (and should) customize their parenting plan to address their unique circumstances. Common customizations include:

Specific provisions for children with special needs
Religious upbringing agreements
Extracurricular activity provisions
Social media and technology use rules
Relocation restrictions or permissions
New partner introduction guidelines

However, any customization must still comply with Tennessee law and serve the child's best interests.

Modifying Child Custody Orders in Tennessee

After a custody order is in place, circumstances may change, requiring modifications to the parenting plan. Tennessee law establishes specific standards and procedures for modifying custody.

The Legal Standard for Modification

Under T.C.A. § 36-6-106 and related case law, a parent seeking to modify a custody order must prove:

A substantial and material change in circumstances has occurred since the entry of the last order; AND
The proposed modification is in the child's best interests

Both elements must be proven—the change alone is insufficient if the modification wouldn't benefit the child.

What Constitutes a "Substantial and Material Change"?

Tennessee courts have found that substantial and material changes may include:

Relocation of a parent (subject to the relocation statute)
Remarriage or cohabitation of a parent (if it affects the child)
Changes in the child's needs (medical, educational, emotional)
A parent's substance abuse or addiction
A parent's mental health decline
Evidence of abuse or neglect
A parent's failure to follow the existing parenting plan
A child's changed preference (if mature enough)

Changes that are typically NOT considered substantial and material include:

Minor inconveniences or scheduling conflicts
A parent's new job with similar hours
A child's normal developmental changes
Disagreement about the other parent's parenting style (unless harmful)

The Modification Process

To modify a Tennessee custody order, the requesting parent must:

1. File a Petition to Modify

File a "Petition to Modify Parenting Plan" in the same court that issued the original order. The petition must:

Specify the exact changes requested
Allege the substantial and material change in circumstances
Explain why the modification serves the child's best interests

2. Serve the Other Parent

The petition must be formally served on the other parent, who then has 30 days to file a response.

3. Attempt Resolution (Often Required)

Many Tennessee courts require mediation before a modification hearing, especially if the original order was recent.

4. The Modification Hearing

If parties cannot agree, the court holds a hearing where:

The petitioner presents evidence of the material change
Both parties present evidence on the child's best interests
The judge may consider the child's preference (if mature)
The guardian ad litem (if appointed) may testify

5. The Modified Order

If the judge finds both elements proven, a modified parenting plan will be issued. The new order replaces the previous order entirely.

The "Armstrong" vs. "Shannon" Standards

Tennessee courts apply different modification standards depending on the situation:

Armstrong standard: Applied when the modification would substantially decrease the other parent's parenting time. A higher burden of proof is required.

Shannon standard: Applied when the modification would not substantially decrease the other parent's parenting time. A lower burden applies.

Prevention vs. Cure

It is generally easier to prevent problems through a well-drafted initial parenting plan than to modify later. Proactive planning for foreseeable issues (relocation, career changes, remarriage) can reduce the need for future litigation.

Parental Relocation Laws in Tennessee

One of the most common post-divorce custody issues involves one parent wishing to relocate with the child. Tennessee's relocation statute, T.C.A. § 36-6-108, establishes strict procedures for these situations.

When Does the Relocation Statute Apply?

The relocation statute applies when a parent who spends at least 50 days per year with the child (under the parenting plan) wishes to move:

More than 50 miles from their current residence within Tennessee, OR
Outside the state of Tennessee entirely

Moves of less than 50 miles within Tennessee do not trigger the relocation statute's requirements, though courts may still consider relocation in modification proceedings.

Notice Requirements

The relocating parent must provide written notice to both the court and the other parent at least 60 days before the planned relocation date. The notice must include:

The intended new residence address (or as specific as possible)
The reasons for the relocation
A statement of the proposed revised parenting schedule
A warning that the other parent has 30 days to file a objection

Notice must be sent by certified mail with return receipt requested to ensure proof of delivery.

Response Period

Once the other parent receives the relocation notice, they have 30 days to:

File a petition in opposition to the relocation, OR
Accept the relocation and negotiate a revised parenting plan

If no objection is filed within 30 days, the relocation may proceed, and the relocating parent can file a proposed revised parenting plan for court approval.

Burden of Proof in Relocation Cases

If the non-relocating parent files an objection, the relocating parent generally bears the burden of proving that the relocation is in the child's best interests.

Courts consider factors including:

The reasons for and against relocation
The quality of the child's relationship with each parent
The impact of relocation on the child's emotional and developmental needs
The feasibility of preserving the child's relationship with the non-relocating parent
The child's preference (if mature enough)
Each parent's ability to cooperate

Possible Outcomes in Relocation Cases

When faced with a relocation dispute, Tennessee courts may:

Permit relocation with a revised parenting plan that maintains the child's relationship with both parents
Deny relocation, requiring the relocating parent to stay or move without the child
Award custody to the non-relocating parent if relocation would harm the child

Practical Tips for Relocation

If you are considering relocation:

Provide notice early and in proper form (60 days, certified mail)
Document legitimate reasons for the move (job opportunities, family support, etc.)
Propose a realistic revised parenting plan that preserves the other parent's relationship with the child
Consider offering additional parenting time during summers and school breaks
Be prepared for court if the other parent objects

If you are opposing relocation:

File your objection within 30 days of receiving notice
Document how the move would harm the child
Propose alternative solutions that address the relocating parent's concerns
Be prepared to demonstrate your involvement in the child's life

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age can a child choose which parent to live with in Tennessee?

There is no specific age in Tennessee law at which a child can choose which parent to live with. However, Tennessee courts may consider a mature child's reasonable preference as one factor among many. The weight given to a child's preference depends on their age, maturity, and the reasons for their preference. Generally, older teenagers (15-17) have more input than younger children, but the court is never bound by the child's choice.

Do fathers have the same custody rights as mothers in Tennessee?

Yes. Tennessee law is gender-neutral—there is no preference for mothers over fathers or vice versa. Both parents have equal rights to seek custody and parenting time. The court's decision is based solely on the child's best interests, not the parent's gender. However, if one parent has been the primary caregiver, courts may be hesitant to disrupt established routines unless there's a good reason.

What is the typical custody arrangement in Tennessee?

As of 2024, Tennessee law presumes that joint legal custody and equal (or nearly equal) parenting time are in a child's best interests. Common arrangements include:

Joint legal custody with one parent as primary residential parent and the other having parenting time approximately 80-100 nights per year
Joint legal custody with shared physical custody (50/50 or close to it)
Sole legal and physical custody (only in cases involving abuse, neglect, or unfitness)

The specific arrangement depends on the family's circumstances, the parents' ability to cooperate, and the child's needs.

How is child custody determined for unmarried parents in Tennessee?

Unmarried parents in Tennessee have the same custody rights as married parents, but there are some differences in process:

Mothers automatically have custody from birth until a court orders otherwise
Fathers must establish paternity (through acknowledgment, legitimation, or court order) before seeking custody or parenting time
Once paternity is established, custody is determined using the same best interests standard that applies to married parents

Unmarried parents may file custody cases in Juvenile Court or Circuit Court, depending on the county.

Can a parent deny visitation if child support is not being paid?

No. Under Tennessee law, child support and parenting time are separate issues. A parent cannot withhold parenting time/visitation due to unpaid child support, nor can a parent refuse to pay child support due to denied parenting time.

If a parent is not paying court-ordered child support, the proper remedy is to file a petition for contempt or wage garnishment through the Tennessee Department of Human Services. If a parent is wrongfully denied parenting time, they may file a petition for contempt or modification.

What happens if one parent violates the parenting plan in Tennessee?

If a parent violates the parenting plan, the other parent may:

Document the violations thoroughly (dates, times, details)
File a petition for contempt asking the court to enforce the order
Request makeup parenting time for time missed
Request a modification of the parenting plan if violations are ongoing

Courts have various remedies for violations, including:

Make-up parenting time
Attorney's fees awarded to the innocent parent
Contempt findings (which can include fines or, in rare cases, jail)
Modification of custody in severe cases

How long does a custody case take in Tennessee?

The timeline varies significantly depending on:

Whether the case is agreed or contested
The court's docket and availability
Whether mediation is successful
Whether a custody evaluation is ordered

Typical timelines:

Agreed cases: 1-3 months
Contested cases without evaluation: 6-12 months
Contested cases with evaluation: 12-18 months or longer

Can grandparents get custody or visitation in Tennessee?

Yes, under certain circumstances. Tennessee law allows grandparents to seek:

Custody if both parents are unfit, deceased, or have abandoned the child
Visitation if certain conditions are met, including:
The grandparent has an existing relationship with the child
The grandparent's involvement is in the child's best interests
Visitation would not interfere with the parent-child relationship

Grandparent custody and visitation cases are fact-specific and can be complex. An experienced family law attorney can advise grandparents on their options.

What happens to custody if a parent enters substance abuse treatment?

Tennessee courts generally encourage and support parents seeking substance abuse treatment, but custody arrangements may need adjustment during and after treatment:

Temporary arrangements may be made during intensive treatment phases
Supervised visitation may be ordered initially
Gradual reunification may occur as the parent progresses in recovery
Sobriety monitoring (drug testing, AA attendance verification) may be required

A parent's successful completion of treatment and sustained recovery can eventually support requests for increased custody or parenting time.

Do Tennessee courts consider a new spouse/partner in custody decisions?

Yes. A parent's new romantic relationship may be considered if it affects the child. Factors courts examine include:

Whether the new partner poses any risk to the child
Whether the new partner has a criminal history
The child's relationship with the new partner
Whether the new relationship disrupts the child's routine
Whether the parent is prioritizing the new relationship over the child

While having a new partner is not grounds for changing custody, problems arising from the relationship can be relevant to the child's best interests.

Conclusion

Tennessee child custody law is complex and fact-specific. While this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the legal framework, every family's situation is unique. The best interests of the child remains the guiding principle in all custody determinations.

For parents navigating custody matters, the following principles are essential:

Focus on your child's needs, not your grievances with the other parent
Document everything related to your child and your co-parenting relationship
Be willing to compromise—flexibility is valued by Tennessee courts
Follow court orders strictly—violations can harm your custody position
Seek professional help when needed—attorneys, mediators, and counselors can all play valuable roles

If you are facing a custody dispute or need to modify an existing order, consult with a qualified Tennessee family law attorney who can advise you on your specific situation and help protect your parental rights.

Additional Resources

Tennessee Courts Parenting Plan Forms: TNCourts.gov
Tennessee Code Annotated Title 36, Chapter 6: Justia Law
Parent Education and Mediation Fund (PEMF): Available for qualifying low-income parents
Tennessee Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: tnbar.org

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Tennessee child custody laws as of January 2024. Laws change, and this guide may not reflect the most current legal developments. This guide does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a qualified Tennessee family law attorney.