Tennessee Child Custody Lawyers

Knoxville Custody Modification Attorney

Issues involving child custody can be some of the most difficult and emotional decisions made in divorce or separation. At Kizer & Black, Attorneys, PLLC, our focus is on minimizing the negative impact that a divorce or child custody dispute can have on children.

At Kizer & Black, Attorneys, PLLC, custody, visitation and other family law matters are handled by Tennessee child custody lawyer Elizabeth Maxey Hackworth. For competent, cost effective legal representation throughout your child custody matter, contact us to schedule an appointment with Ms. Hackworth.

Tennessee Child Custody Laws

In Tennessee child custody cases, it is necessary to determine the legal rights and obligations of both parents. Generally, a parenting plan will designate the primary residential parent (the parent with whom the child resides the majority of the time) and the alternate residential parent (typically the parent with visitation rights/co-parenting rights).

Additionally, the parenting plan will identify which parent will have decision-making authority/powers. Decision making authority governs important issues involving religious upbringing, medical concerns, education and other issues, and can be granted jointly to both parents.

Modification of Child Custody or Visitation

When a material change of circumstances has occurred, such that the current permanent parenting plan is no longer in the best interest of the child, it may be necessary to request a modification of the plan. Examples of material changes may include, but are not limited to, changes in a parent's living situation or work schedule, failure to adhere to the parenting plan, or changes in the needs of the child. However, more frequently, modifications arise simply because a child is getting older and the needs of the family have changed.

Modification of a permanent parenting plan may also be necessary if a parent spending substantial time with the child wishes to move out of state or more than 100 miles from the other parent with the child. If the other parent is opposed to the relocation, the court must determine whether the proposed relocation is in the child's best interests.

Contact a Tennessee Child Custody Attorney

In working with attorney Hackworth of Kizer & Black, Attorneys, PLLC, you can have confidence knowing that your lawyer has the compassion, dedication and genuine interest in resolving your case effectively. Contact us at our Maryville or Lenoir City office to schedule an initial consultation. We provide family law representation in the Knoxville area and throughout East Tennessee.