Do You Have Questions About Family Law In Tennessee?
Family law issues are endlessly nuanced. However, we at The Vaughan Law Firm have noticed a trend in the questions our clients frequently ask. Below, you’ll find answers.
Can a child decide which parent to live with after a divorce in Tennessee?
There are myriad factors that the court considers when making decisions about child custody. While a child’s preference may be among these factors, their preference alone does not determine the outcome. The court will consider the child’s wishes if they are over 12 years old. Younger children may also share their wishes if they request. Generally, the desires of older children are given more weight in the decision-making process.
How is property divided in a Tennessee divorce?
Marital property is divided “equitably” in Tennessee divorces. What an equitable division of property looks like varies on a case-by-case basis. Overall, it means that the division must be fair and reasonable according to the standards the law designates. An even 50/50 split is usually a judge’s starting position. Then they make the necessary adjustments to ensure the division of property is just to the parties involved.
What are the specific grounds for a contested divorce in Tennessee?
There are numerous fault-based grounds for divorce in Tennessee, including:
- Impotence
- Entering another marriage
- Adultery
- Abandonment
- Being convicted of a serious crime
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Attempted murder
- Cruel treatment
- Inappropriate marital conduct
Couples can also seek an uncontested divorce simply on the grounds of irreconcilable differences.
Do grandparents have a right to visitation after a divorce?
Grandparents are entitled to seek custody or visitation with their grandchildren when the children’s parents get divorced if they can demonstrate to the court that it’s in the children’s best interests and that denial of custody or visitation would cause harm to the child.
Additional Family Law Questions? Contact Us For Answers.
We hope this information has helped orient you in how family law matters generally work in Tennessee. If you’re in East Tennessee and need specific guidance from a skilled lawyer, request a free consultation by phone at 865-424-4618 or contact The Vaughan Law Firm via our online form.