Child Custody & Modification
Understanding Child Custody
Physical Custody
Physical custody of a child or children determines where the child will live and can be awarded to both parents during a custody hearing. Learn more by contacting Burdine Law Firm to schedule a consultation today.
Legal Custody
Legal custody determines which parent or guardian will make decisions pertaining to the children's education, medical needs, and religion. Contact us to learn more about legal custody and what it means for your children.
Sole & Joint Custody
Joint custody of the children splits time and expenses equally between each parent while sole custody is granted to only one parent if the other is deemed unfit. In many cases, the goal for child custody arrangements is joint custody. Call today to learn more.
What is Supervised Visitation & is it Necessary?
Supervised visitation is implemented when a party has a history of violence or severe abuse against the other parent and/or the minor children. It can also be used if a parent has a serious drug problem, a long history of crimes of violence, serious child neglect, or is mentally incapable of caring for the children without supervision. It is not to be used as revenge against the other parents or for some other malevolent purpose. It should only be used to protect children by ensuring that they maintain or establish a close relationship with the parent.
We Put the Needs of Your Children First
When it comes to child custody, there's nothing more important than the needs and interests of the children. When you choose an experienced child custody attorney like Ms. Burdine at Burdine Law Firm in Nashville, you can trust your situation will be handled with care and that your children's best interests are being served. Ideally, parents will be able to effectively co-parent their child(ren), but it's not always the case. At Burdine Law Firm, we are knowledgeable of child custody laws and do our very best to make sure the child is getting the care they deserve.
Do You Need a Child Custody Attorney?
When you're going through a divorce or separation, it's easy to think you may be able to work out an arrangement with your children's other parent all on your own. However, if things go south, you'll want the experience and knowledge of a child custody attorney on your side. Ms. Burdine at Burdine Law Firm in Nashville will work with you to ensure the needs and interests of your child(ren) are met and handled with care. Don't let a messy disagreement with their other parent have a negative impact on their life. Let us support you through this process so that you can work out an arrangement that works for everyone. Once a custody order is put in place, it is very hard to modify it later. This is why it is important to hire a trusted attorney to help you with your initial child custody matter.
Effective Parenting Plans
During a child custody case, a parenting plan must be drafted and agreed upon by both parties. This plan includes information such as who will have physical and legal custody of the child(ren), how much time will be spent with both parents, any child support arrangements, and more. If one or both parents neglect to follow the arrangements as laid out in the parenting plan, one or both may be subject to a court hearing. With Burdine Law Firm, we can help make sure that the parenting plan in place is one that works for both parents and benefits the child(ren).
Keep Your Children Safe, Healthy, & Happy
At the end of the day, child custody arrangements are for the children more than they are for the parents. Providing the best environment for the child(ren) to grow up in is the goal of an effective arrangement between two separated parents. Whether you're newly separated or you're going through a divorce, it's important to consider your options for child custody, child support, and any other aspects that will affect your child's life. After all, you should want — more than anything else — for your child(ren) to be safe, happy, and healthy.
What factors do Tennessee courts consider when determining child custody?
Tennessee courts consider various factors when determining child custody, including the child's best interests, parental involvement, the child's relationship with each parent, emotional ties, stability of the home environment, and the child's adjustment to school and community in Nashville, TN. Our experienced attorneys at Burdine Law Firm are well-versed in navigating these factors to advocate for the best possible outcome for our clients.
How is child custody determined in cases of divorce in Tennessee?
Child custody in Nashville, TN is decided based on the child's best interests, considering factors such as parental involvement, the child's relationship with each parent, and the child's adjustment to home, school, and community. Our attorneys at Burdine Law Firm are skilled negotiators and litigators who work tirelessly to protect our clients' parental rights and advocate for favorable custody arrangements.
Can child custody orders be modified in Nashville, TN?
Yes, child custody orders in Nashville, TN can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child's best interests. Common reasons for modification include parental relocation, changes in the child's needs, or issues with the current custody arrangement. Our experienced attorneys at Burdine Law Firm have successfully represented clients in seeking modifications to custody orders and ensuring that the child's best interests are prioritized.
What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, legal custody refers to the authority to make major decisions regarding the child's upbringing, including matters related to education, healthcare, and religion. Physical custody, on the other hand, refers to where the child primarily resides. Legal custody can be joint (shared by both parents) or sole (held by one parent), while physical custody can also be joint or sole. Our knowledgeable attorneys at Burdine Law Firm can help you understand the distinctions between legal and physical custody and advocate for your preferred custody arrangement.
How does relocation affect child custody arrangements in Tennessee?
Relocation can significantly impact child custody arrangements in Tennessee, especially if it affects the child's ability to maintain a relationship with both parents. Before relocating with a child, the parent seeking to move must obtain approval from the court or obtain consent from the other parent. If the relocation is contested, the court will consider factors such as the reason for the move, the child's relationship with each parent, and the potential impact on the child's well-being. Our skilled attorneys at Burdine Law Firm can provide guidance and representation in relocation cases to protect your parental rights and the child's best interests.
Is it possible to modify a child custody order if circumstances change?
Yes, it is possible to modify a child custody order if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original order was issued, and modifying the order is in the child's best interests. Examples of significant changes may include a parent's relocation, changes in the child's needs, or evidence of one parent's inability to provide a stable and safe environment for the child. Our experienced attorneys at Burdine Law Firm can assist you in filing a petition for modification and presenting your case to the court.
What rights do unmarried fathers have regarding child custody in Tennessee?
Unmarried fathers in Nashville, TN have certain rights regarding child custody, but they may need to establish paternity and petition the court to establish custody and visitation rights formally. Tennessee law recognizes the importance of a father's involvement in a child's life and considers factors such as the father's relationship with the child, financial support, and willingness to co-parent when determining custody. Our experienced attorneys at Burdine Law Firm can assist unmarried fathers in asserting their parental rights and securing meaningful relationships with their children.
How long does a child custody case typically take in Nashville, TN?
The duration of a child custody case in Nashville, TN can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to negotiate, and the court's docket. Some cases may be resolved relatively quickly through negotiation or mediation, while others may require litigation, which can prolong the process. Our experienced attorneys at Burdine Law Firm are committed to helping you resolve your child custody case as efficiently as possible while ensuring that your rights and the best interests of your child are protected.
Additional Legal Services We Provide
- Divorce
- Adoptions
- Premarital Asset Protection and Planning
- Post-Judgment Enforcement and Modification
Schedule a Legal Consultation Today
Burdine Law Firm in Nashville is here to help you navigate through child custody arrangements in a way that best suits the needs and interests of your child(ren). Don't leave their childhood, education, or medical needs up to chance. Get in touch with us today to speak to a knowledgeable and experienced attorney about creating a plan that works for you, the other parent, and most of all — your children.