Adoption is one of the many ways in which people may opt to expand their families. Some people adopt members of their family, such as stepchildren or grandchildren. Others adopt unrelated children while working with an agency. They may secure the placement of an infant or adopt a child from another country. Some families begin with foster placement and then adopt the children in their care. Those who want to grow their families sometimes assume that adoption is not a realistic option in their case because of the expense involved and the level of scrutiny applied to aspiring adoptive parents. C ..read more

Families form in all kinds of ways. There is the traditional nuclear family that begins with a marriage and leads to loving parents having children together. There are blended families created when people with children remarry. There are families where children live with grandparents and households where the children have no biological relationship with their parents or guardians. All of these families can provide love and support for minor children. They may all also face unique challenges. A stepparent in a blended family may have a strong attachment to their stepchildren. They may aspire to ..read more

Co-parenting has its own set of challenges, but over the holidays, those challenges may feel as though they increase. Working with your co-parent during the holiday can create a more amicable and smooth season. Likewise, when you work together, your children can make positive memories with you and your former spouse. Create an advanced schedule Over the holidays, Americans make about 15 billion trips per year. Naturally, you or your former spouse may want to travel and holiday travel means deciding whether the kids can go. In advance, work out specific dates and times for parent involvement. F ..read more

According to the IRS, how you handle taxes after a divorce depends on your marital status on December 31. Understanding the tax implications of your divorce is important. You want to avoid making mistakes that could be very costly in the long run. Filing status One of the most immediate tax-related decisions you will face after divorce is your filing status. Your filing status can significantly impact your tax liability. If your divorce is final as of the last day of the year, you can file as single or head of household. However, if you are still in a marriage, you should file married filing j ..read more

Tennessee courts make child custody decisions with the best interests of the child at the forefront. Understanding this process is if you are going through a separation or divorce and have children involved. Reviewing the key factors can help you prepare for an upcoming custody case. Types of child custody State laws recognize both physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Legal custody is decision-making authority about the child’s upbringing, including education and healthcare. Collaborative parenting plans The state encourages parents to work toge ..read more

Divorce is always difficult, but going through one as a victim of domestic violence can be even more daunting, especially with children involved. In Tennessee alone close to 70,000 domestic violence cases are reported each year. These cases usually require protective orders. Understanding how these orders may impact custody arrangements can help parents seeking to ensure their children’s well-being. Understanding protective orders A protective order, also known as a restraining order, is a legal directive issued by a court to safeguard individuals from harassment, abuse or threats. In cases wh ..read more

Estate planning helps ensure that your assets undergo distribution according to your wishes when you die. In Tennessee, a basic estate plan includes several key elements that help protect your family, your assets and your interests. When drafting your estate plan, be sure to include the following. 1. A last will and testament In a last will and testament, you specify who inherits your assets, including your real estate, investments and personal belongings, when you die. Without a will, Tennessee law dictates where your assets go, and the state may not distribute them in line with your wishes ..read more

Recognizing the right moment to file for divorce is both a deeply personal and complex journey. Marriage, a union that begins with love and shared dreams, can sometimes evolve into a relationship that feels unrecognizable. Many couples grapple with the emotional turmoil and doubt that precedes such a decision, seeking clarity amidst the storm of emotions. While every relationship’s dynamics are unique, there are common signs that may indicate it is time to consider taking this significant step. Communication has broken down When you and your spouse can no longer communicate without conflict or ..read more

Estate planning is a thoughtful and strategic way to ensure the management and distribution of your assets according to your desires. Among the various tools available, establishing a trust can be a wise decision for several reasons. 1. Privacy protection By incorporating a trust into your estate plan, you gain an additional layer of privacy. Unlike wills, which become public documents once probated, trusts allow your estate affairs to remain confidential. This confidentiality ensures that your financial details, beneficiary information and the extent of your estate remain shielded from the pu ..read more

Co-parenting has its own set of challenges, but over the holidays, those challenges may feel as though they increase. Working with your co-parent during the holiday can create a more amicable and smooth season. Likewise, when you work together, your children can make positive memories with you and your former spouse. Create an advanced schedule Over the holidays, Americans make about 15 billion trips per year. Naturally, you or your former spouse may want to travel and holiday travel means deciding whether the kids can go. In advance, work out specific dates and times for parent involvement. F ..read more