
In this article, you will discover: How background checks affect the adoption process. The importance of being prepared for the home visit. Common misunderstandings about open vs. closed adoptions. Why Is Choosing The Right Adoption Agency So Important? You get what you pay for in this situation. Whether you're using a national or a local adoption agency, sometimes the most successful are the priciest. It's best to work with someone reputable and with a record of proven results. With international adoptions, you need to do a lot of homework because there are different rules and costs. How Do Background Checks Impact The Adoption Process In Tennessee? Because a home study and background check are required of a prospective adoptive parent to see whether they're suitable to adopt a child, certain things will disqualify you. If you have any history of child abuse or neglect that rises to the level of…Read More

In this article, you will discover: The legal requirements for adoption in Tennessee. The difference between agency and private adoption. How long the adoption process will take and factors will impact this timeline. What Are The Legal Requirements For Adoption In Tennessee? To adopt in Tennessee, you have to be 18 years old, and you have to be a resident of Tennessee for at least six consecutive months. Where there are exceptions to that rule, these are the basic requirements. There are other requirements for adoption from the state or an adoption agency. Ultimately, every prospective adoptive home is subject to a home study. If you're adopting from foster care, you must be a Tennessee resident at least 21 years of age and complete a Parents as Tender Healers (PATH) training program. It also helps to have been the child’s foster parent prior to adoption. Adoptive parents in Tennessee can…Read More

In this article, you’ll discover: The importance of having an estate plan that provides for your minor children. How to provide for your children’s education in the event of your death. The biggest mistakes parents make regarding estate planning. Why Is Estate Planning Important For Families With Minor Children? When people pass away, they are legally considered one of two things: testate or intestate. If they have a will, you're testate; if not, you're intestate. In Tennessee, if you die intestate or without an estate plan, there are predetermined state guidelines: The court will decide who is awarded custody of your children and who controls the inheritance you leave behind, among many other issues the rules cover. How Can I Choose The Right Guardian For My Child? Choosing a guardian for your child is different for each individual. You must consider your potential guardian's values, parenting style and whether they…Read More

In this article, you’ll discover: How to create a well-crafted parenting plan that works for both parents. How to arrange holiday travel for your children. How an attorney can help write a co-parenting agreement. How Can I Create A Holiday Schedule That Is Fair And Works For Both Of Us? An effective parenting plan must be detailed from the start. When building a parenting plan, include a holiday schedule. With holidays, the plan should be flexible. Remember, your children's best interests are paramount; your feelings are secondary. While that consideration also risks hurting the feelings of the extended family, the children should still be the focus. Another essential consideration in a parenting plan is communication. Even though your marriage has ended, you still need to have a line of communication, whether that be through an app like OurFamilyWizard or direct communication with your former spouse. It's never too early to…Read More

Creating an estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your assets and ensure your family’s future is secure. In Tennessee, estate planning involves more than just drafting a will—it includes understanding different legal documents, how assets are transferred, and the role of trusts. This guide will walk you through key estate planning basics, including: The importance of a comprehensive estate plan. Different estate planning documents and their uses in Tennessee. The different types of trusts available in Tennessee and their advantages. What Is An Estate Plan, And Why Is It Important? As we go through life, we naturally accumulate things—whether that’s financial assets like homes, cars, and other valuables, or sentimental items that hold personal meaning. This is the foundation of our wealth. When we pass, most of us want to leave these things to the people we care about. That’s where an…Read More

Divorce in movies and TV often highlights intense custody battles. In reality, Tennessee divorces typically focus on collaboration—especially when it comes to co-parenting. Tennessee law encourages both parents to remain actively involved in their child’s life, and the co-parenting plan serves as a structured way to make that happen. This guide covers the essentials every parent should know about co-parenting in Tennessee, including: What is a co-parenting plan, what it includes, and why you need one. How to ensure a co-parenting plan is fair and equitable. How to address communication and conflict in co-parenting plans. What Is A Co-Parenting Plan? A co-parenting plan is a comprehensive written agreement designed to protect the best interests of your child both during and after divorce. Think of it as a roadmap that details how responsibilities will be shared between parents. The plan typically covers: Division Of Parenting Duties: Who is responsible for what…Read More

Divorce can be a challenging and emotional experience, but understanding the process can help make it more manageable. This guide will walk you through the key steps involved in navigating a divorce in Tennessee, covering important topics like: What to do, and to gather, if you are considering getting a divorce in Tennessee. The steps needed to get a divorce, from initial consultation to final agreement. How to protect your assets and children throughout the Tennessee divorce process. What Should I Do If I’m Considering Filing For Divorce In Tennessee? If you’re thinking about filing for divorce, it's crucial to start preparing early. Begin by organizing important documents, such as: Tax returns Bank statements Investment and retirement account details Insurance policies Automobile titles Property deeds Stock certificates These documents will not only help you during the divorce process but will also give you a clear understanding of your financial situation…Read More