Parenting time, which is also referred to as child custody, is often a controversial issue in most divorces. To learn more about custody or if you would like to retain the services of an attorney that can help you through a custody issue of any kind, it is in your best interest to reach out to our firm today. Our legal team is equipped with the knowledge and experience required to ensure that you and your child are protected. Give us a call today to speak with a skilled Memphis, Tennessee child custody lawyer. We are here to help.
How are child custody determinations made in Tennessee?
You will want to recognize that unless there has been an established agreement between the child’s parents, Tennessee family courts have the power to grant the “care, custody, and control” of children to either or both of the parents. Keep in mind that the sole consideration in custody decisions is the best interests of the child. If the court decides that a parent intentionally abandoned his or her child for at least 18 months, then that parent’s involvement with the child, such as visitation, will be restricted.
If you have additional questions or concerns about how a Tennessee court makes custody decisions, read on and reach out to our skilled attorneys. Our legal team is here to help.
What factors are considered when deciding custody arrangements?
As previously mentioned, the state of Tennessee will make all of its custody determinations based on the best interests of the child. As a result, there are a number of different factors that Tennessee courts consider to determine what the best interests of the child actually are. These factors include the following:
- The parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs (education, religious training, food, shelter, health care);
- The child’s wishes/preferences provided that they are mature enough to make such claims;
- The child’s stability regarding their current home, school, and community, and whether a change will disrupt that stability;
- The child’s ability to adapt to their school, community, and home;
- The parents’ parenting skills and willingness to promote and foster a continuing relationship between the child and the other parent;
- Any history of domestic violence, child abuse, negligence, or substance abuse;
- The mental or physical health of the parties concerned;
- The custodian’s readiness to comply with a new custody arrangement or visitation schedule; and
- The testimony is supplied by any party, or by the court itself, who can testify what’s best for the child.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED TENNESSEE FIRM
If you require strong legal representation for matters of divorce and family law in Memphis or anywhere in Tennessee, contact Rice Law to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.
