Child support is one of the most common and emotionally charged issues in Tennessee family law. For many parents in Wilson County and surrounding areas, understanding how the state calculates child support, what counts as “income,” and how changes can be made later can help reduce uncertainty and conflict. This overview explains, in general terms, how child support works in Tennessee without giving legal advice for any specific situation.
View PostFor many families in Tennessee, adoption is a meaningful way to grow their household and build new legal relationships with a child. Adoption is not a one‑size‑fits‑all process; there are several common paths that families use, each with its own focus and structure. Understanding the general types of adoption can help people in Middle Tennessee decide which route might align best with their goals and situation, even if they are only beginning to explore the idea.
View PostFamily conflicts over divorce, custody, parenting time, or financial issues can feel overwhelming and emotionally charged. In Tennessee, many families choose family mediation as a way to work through disagreements with the help of a neutral third party rather than going straight to court. A family mediator does not make decisions for the family; instead, the mediator helps parents and other involved parties communicate, clarify what they need, and try to reach practical, mutually acceptable agreements.
View PostIn Tennessee, a parenting plan is a court‑approved schedule that sets out custody, visitation, and decision‑making responsibilities for both parents after separation or divorce. When one parent repeatedly ignores or undermines that plan, it can create confusion, conflict, and stress for the children and the other parent. Understanding what typically happens when a parenting plan is violated can help families see both the practical and legal consequences and decide how to respond.
View PostSpousal support, often called alimony, remains one of the most misunderstood aspects of divorce in Tennessee. Many people enter negotiations or court proceedings with assumptions about how it works, who qualifies, and how long it lasts. Clearing up these misconceptions can provide clearer expectations for those navigating the end of a marriage.
View PostHigh-conflict custody disputes tear families apart, often revealing deeper mental health struggles that courts must navigate carefully. At Hagar & Phillips Law Firm in Lebanon, Tennessee, we guide Middle Tennessee parents through these emotionally charged cases where accusations of instability, alienation, or personality disorders dominate proceedings.
View PostAs we enter 2026, Tennessee families pursuing adoption have fresh legal updates to navigate. At Hagar & Phillips Law Firm in Lebanon, Tennessee, we stay ahead of these changes to guide clients smoothly through the process. A key 2025 law now in effect lowers barriers for adult adoptees accessing records, with more proposals on the horizon.
View PostBuilding a family through adoption is a rewarding journey, especially in Tennessee, where supportive laws and resources pave the way. At Hagar & Phillips Law Firm in Lebanon, Tennessee, we guide families through every stage, from initial questions to final court hearings. This step-by-step guide outlines the process, helping prospective parents in Middle Tennessee prepare effectively. Whether pursuing foster-to-adopt, private domestic, or relative adoption, understanding these steps ensures a smoother path.
View PostFamily law in Tennessee touches some of the most important parts of life: marriage, divorce, children, and financial security. It brings together emotional decisions and detailed legal rules, which is why having clear information—and guidance—matters so much.
View PostWe've compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions about divorce in Tennessee. Read our Divorce FAQ for more information, or reach out to our office directly.
View Post
