Category Archives: Family
When the Court Appoints a Guardian ad Litem in Tennessee
A Guardian ad Litem in Tennessee is defined as “a lawyer appointed by the court to advocate for the best interests of a child….” The definition goes on to state that the Guardian ad Litem’s Role is also “to ensure that the child’s concerns and preferences are effectively advocated”. TN. R. S. Ct. 40…. Read More »
Can I Have a Common Law Marriage in Tennessee?
There are many reasons to be legally married – beyond the romantic notions of love and family, there are significant legal and financial benefits that might be had as well. But for others, getting a legal marriage is not a top priority. They are happy to live together as though they were married, without… Read More »
Kevin Costner’s Alleged Prenuptial Agreement Terms Upheld in Court – What Can be Included in a Premarital Agreement in TN?
The judge overseeing the divorce of Kevin Costner and his soon-to-be ex-wife Christine Baumgartner delivered a consequential ruling this week. The recent headlines highlight the potential impact of crafting a valid prenuptial agreement. This article aims to highlight the case at hand and discuss several items that you can include in a prenuptial agreement… Read More »
Military Service and Child Custody
The U.S. owes a lot to its servicemen and women. Many of these service members and their families sacrifice a lot in the name of their country. To honor and protect these members, U.S. Federal law has developed in numerous ways that aim to grant special protections to service members. One way that active… Read More »
Understanding Domestic Assault Under Tennessee Law
There are many crimes that fit under the umbrella of “domestic violence.” An action does not need to be premeditated in order to be considered a violation of the domestic violence laws and standards of Tennessee. Domestic violence does not stem from one particular set of circumstances either – it can, and often does,… Read More »
Assets People Commonly Forget to Consider in Tennessee Divorces
People going through a divorce often come to the table already stressed. Already worn thin. Already grieving something big. At the same time, navigating through the divorce process requires people to fully engage and navigate multiple new and stressful things at once. You might be staring down the process of finding a new home…. Read More »
What Is A Postnuptial Agreement, And What Can Make One Invalid?
More and more people are becoming aware of the concept of postnuptial agreements. While prenuptial agreements may be even more recognizable, postnuptial agreements are a valid tool and becoming a standard in many marriages across the U.S. Postnuptial agreements do, after all, function in a very similar fashion to prenuptial agreements. The main difference… Read More »
What Makes A Marriage “Valid” In Tennessee
Many weddings resemble one another. These commitment ceremonies include a traditional license and officiant, white cake, perhaps the church where your parents were married, and maybe even that one uncle who tried to dance on the bar a few hours in. However, you may also have heard of that one celebrity, or your co-worker’s… Read More »
Common Questions On Unwed Fathers, Child Support, And Custody
There is often a lot of confusion within the general public about what “the law” says about various topics. The processes and responsibilities applying to unwed fathers and custody or child support issues is one such contentious item. Perhaps this confusion is due, in part, to there being countless laws and regulations in effect… Read More »
Types Of Adoption Recognized In Tennessee
There are few things involved in the court process that can bring an element of joy. While adoption very often involves an element of loss, by and large it is a happy affair. Even the most seasoned family law judge will likely still crack a smile when handling the finalization of an adoption of… Read More »
