How much child support a parent owes and what can be taken as a credit towards child support obligations are common questions in family law matters. A large expense, which could result in a large child support deduction — or...more
In cases where parents are divorced or not married and living separately, most parents are familiar with the idea of child support (i.e., one parent paying money to the other parent for the benefit of the children.) However,...more
A common misperception in divorce cases has to do with what income is considered when determining child support. Some people believe it is the amount of their paycheck which is determinative. Others ask whether the value of...more
The recent decision of Compher v. Whitfield from the Tennessee Court of Appeals is a prime example of how far child custody law in Tennessee has to go to catch up with today’s same-sex partner realities. In Compher, two women...more
A frequently asked question in family law has to do with how much of an interest, if any, each spouse has in the couple’s assets and liabilities. The way it’s usually asked is something along the lines of: “I have this...more
The difference between legal separation and divorce is a commonly asked question. Each State may address legal separation differently. In Tennessee, there are important differences between legal separation and divorce to...more
Many people assume once they are divorced and a Judge has entered an Order that the terms of that Order are binding and never end. Under certain circumstances, this is not true. There are several situations where a judge may...more
The Coronavirus has upended long-standing post marriage relationships for a number of people. Parenting plans have been rendered impossible by quarantine and other mandates; well-established financial security has given way...more
Many people understand the difficult decisions and tough times the divorce process can bring. Problems after divorce, however, are often given less consideration. A common quandary with post-divorce parents is how to handle a...more
The Coronavirus has affected the lives of virtually every routine social interaction. Millions have lost jobs or are facing an uncertain financial future. The virus’s ravages have also spread into the family law arena. ...more
In over thirty years of practicing law, I have seen many surprising things. One of the most unexpected to many, however, is how many people find themselves going through bouts of sadness, or even depression, about ending a...more
Most people understand that the divorce process can be very traumatic. Divorce involves some of the most important aspects of a person’s life: an unwinding of a commitment to another person for life, a person’s finances and,...more
The three most important words in any divorce action are the simple words: “can”, “may” and “should”. While parties tend to concentrate on the major issues of support, custody, and division of assets and liabilities, the use...more
So you’ve gone through a divorce. You have survived the mental anguish of the process and a court order has been entered regarding custody and parenting time....more
Divorce can be a stressful and emotionally draining time. However, knowing when and how to communicate with your legal team can help to alleviate some of the stress. Here are a few tips for ways to best communicate with your...more
A common misperception arises as to when child support amounts change. As a general rule, parents are required to exchange tax returns each year during the period of time that child support is owed. ...more
The answer to this question varies by state. There is usually a statute or rule of law directly on point that gives a clear answer. But there are a number of other court decisions and laws that can affect the answer and make...more
The length of time that a parent must pay child support, or a parent can receive child support, varies by state. So it is extremely important that one look to the applicable state’s law when addressing this issue. Tennessee’s...more
One of the most common questions I am asked is “what is the smartest thing I can do to survive my divorce and be successful in my new life?” Even though the facts of every divorce are personal and vary dramatically, there is...more
Divorce cases involve some of the most personal and important aspects of a person’s life. Information regarding your spouse, your children, your money, and your job are all very personal. It is only human nature to want to...more
Parenting time can be one of the most contentious issues in a divorce. Deciding which parent sees the children, how much and under what circumstances can be a very tricky and emotionally charged effort....more
For most people, once their divorce is final they are done with the divorce process and the legal aspects of their case. But this may not be true for everyone....more
We recently posted a blog regarding how to make your divorce quick and painless in Arizona. There are some differences in Tennessee. This blog provides an overview of the divorce process in Tennessee. Understanding the...more
Divorce is a very stressful time. The issues that need to be addressed involve some of the most important things in people’s lives: their children, their finances, their retirement plans and sometimes even their identity as a...more
A common issue during divorce – and after divorce – involves one parent speaking poorly of the other. Many times the parent who is engaged in this unfortunate behavior does not even realize what he or she is doing....more