Let’s face it: Divorce is not a happy experience.
But sometimes it is necessary. I will guide you through the process, fight for your parental and property rights, and get you to the other side, so you can move on with the rest of your life. On the way, you can expect to deal with some or all of these issues:
Property division. What is marital property? What is separate property? I will help you understand your situation, and fight for everything you are entitled to.
Fault. You may have numerous reasons for wanting a divorce. Some of the reasons which would entitle you to a divorce are codified in Tennessee law. You may have other reasons, very personal to you, which may fall into the category called “irreconcilable differences.” I will explain these issues and help you decide which path to take.
Alimony. Appropriate in some cases, alimony can prevent a divorce from being a financial disaster. I will fight for your right to avoid financial ruin.
Child custody and visitation. Who will the minor children live with? How much time will they spend with each parent? What is joint custody? What is the primary custodial parent? What are your rights as a parent? These are far reaching questions about the most important people in your life, your children. The answers will have a long-term impact on the lives of all your family members. I will help you sort it all out, and fight for your parental rights. More information is available on this topic here.
Child support. Every parent in Tennessee has the legal obligation to support his or her children, unless parental rights have been legally terminated by the court. When both parents no longer live together in the same home with the child, one or both parents will be obligated to pay some amount of child support. How much? How is it calculated? Tennessee has strict guidelines for determining the amount of child support which must be paid. I will lead you through this legal maze and reach the result which is right for you and your children. More information is available on this topic here.
Mediation. Couples with children are required by Tennessee law to participate in mediation. This process is often a less stressful, less expensive and more successful method of accomplishing the end result, whether it be a divorce, change of custody or other related matter.