Filing for divorce in Wilson County, Tennessee, can feel stressful, but knowing the basic process can make it easier to handle. In general, the case begins by filing a Complaint for Divorce in the proper court, and local court forms are available for divorce cases with or without children.
View PostGrandparents play an important role in many families. They often provide love, stability, childcare, and a sense of connection that helps children feel secure. But when family relationships become strained, grandparents may wonder what rights they have and whether they can still remain involved in their grandchild’s life. In Wilson County, Tennessee, that question comes up often, especially when parents separate, divorce, or limit contact.
View PostRelinquishing parental rights is a serious decision that can permanently change the relationship between a parent and a child. In Lebanon, TN, this issue often comes up when families are dealing with adoption, step-parent adoption, long-term family conflict, or situations where a parent believes they can no longer take part in a child’s life. Because the decision can have lasting legal and emotional effects, it is important to understand what it really means before moving forward.
View PostTennessee does not recognize common law marriage formed within the state. That means simply living together for years, sharing bills, or calling each other husband and wife does not create a legal marriage in Lebanon, Tennessee.
View PostDomestic assault is a criminal charge that arises when an assault happens between people who have a qualifying personal or family relationship. In Tennessee, the term is often used interchangeably with domestic violence in everyday conversation, but it has a specific legal meaning. Understanding that distinction matters because domestic assault cases are handled seriously and can affect more than just a person’s immediate court case.
View PostAt Hagar & Phillips, we are honored to be recognized as the Best Divorce Lawyer in Wilson County for 2025. This distinction means so much to our team because it reflects the trust and support of the Lebanon, Tennessee, community we proudly serve.
View PostDeciding to pursue adoption is a significant step for many families in Tennessee. Adoption can create lasting legal relationships, expand a household, and provide stability for a child, but it also comes with emotional, practical, and financial considerations. Before beginning the process, it helps to think through several key areas so that the decision is informed, deliberate, and aligned with your family’s long‑term well‑being.
View PostChild 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 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.
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