Decherd Child Custody Lawyer Protecting The Best Interests Of Your Children

Nothing weighs heavier than not knowing when you will see your child next. At Kessler Law, I understand that fear, and I take it seriously. I have practiced family law in Franklin County for more than 20 years, building the local knowledge and courtroom experience that Tennessee custody cases demand. That means you have an attorney who knows these courts, knows the law and is fully focused on protecting your time with your child.

How Tennessee Courts Decide Child Custody

Tennessee courts base every custody decision on the best interest of the child. Judges weigh factors like each parent’s involvement, the stability of each home and the child’s relationship with both parents. Tennessee recognizes several types of custody arrangements:

• Primary residential custody: One parent has the child most of the time, with the other parent typically receiving a parenting schedule
• Shared parenting: Both parents share decision-making authority, with residential time divided according to a parenting plan
• Visitation: A parent without primary custody has the right to scheduled time with the child as the court orders

Tennessee requires all parents to follow a court-approved parenting plan that details decision-making and residential schedules.

If you and the other parent were never married, establishing paternity is your first legal step. An unmarried father must establish legal paternity before Tennessee courts will consider his custody or visitation rights.

Modifying Or Enforcing A Child Custody Order In Tennessee

Circumstances change, and a custody order can change with them. Tennessee courts will modify an existing order when you show a material change in circumstances, including:

• A significant change in a parent’s work schedule
• A parent relocating outside the area
• A change in the child’s health or educational needs
• Concerns about the child’s safety or well-being

If the other parent violates a custody or visitation order, Tennessee courts take it seriously. I can help you file for enforcement and hold that parent legally accountable.

Take The First Step Toward Protecting Your Relationship With Your Child

You deserve certainty about your future with your child. At Kessler Law, I deliver modern, client-focused legal representation with the personal attention your family deserves. Call my office at 931-767-0707 or reach out to me online to schedule your free consultation.