Tennessee is home to picturesque mountain views and gorgeous landscapes, but residents of the state still have to deal with the stark realities of divorce. Despite best efforts and intentions, some relationships reach a point at which separating is best, but this can be especially difficult for parents who are seeking a divorce.
According to FindLaw, child custody and support decisions are some of the most difficult and emotional during the process of dissolving a marriage, leaving many divorcing parents frustrated. As a result, it’s important for parents to understand how custody decisions are made in order to be engaged in the process of determining parental rights.
FindLaw states that cases involving parents who can not reach an agreement between each other regarding custody and support will be handled by a family law court. There, a judge will review key factors that play a part in the living situation of each parent, including residence location, income expectations, criminal history, level of health and overall ability to provide proper care for minor children. Each parent will have the chance to present arguments for their desired custody and support arrangement, and the family law judge will make the final determination. In cases of custody and support where the parents are unmarried, the primary caregiver may be afforded additional rights. In cases where neither parent is found to be fit for custody rights, guardianship may be appointed by the court until one or both parents can make lifestyle changes.
Although it is usually considered best if divorcing parents can reach an agreement on their own regarding child custody & support, there may be times when this is not possible. When this occurs, many parents find that the process can be handled more effectively and efficiently by partnering with a family law attorney. A family law attorney might be able to provide representation for a parent in court, and he or she may also work with the legal system to amend custody and support decisions if circumstances change in a parent’s life.