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Blogs, News, Press Releases & Legal Insights

2026 Tennessee Adoption Law Updates

As 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.​

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3 Common Myths About Divorce

Divorce is a complicated, delicate, often misunderstood business. For some, their only experience with divorce is through sensationalized accounts in TV or film. However, the truth is much less dramatic. Here are three myths on divorce you can put to rest.

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4 Things to Know Before a Child Custody Battle

A child custody battle is probably the last position a person wants to find themselves in if they’re going through a divorce. Find out four key things you should know before a child custody battle.

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5 Practical Steps to Adopt a Child in Tennessee

Building 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.

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5 Ways to Protect Yourself from Theft During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it’s also a time when theft and break-ins increase. Here are five ways to protect yourself from theft during the holidays:

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7 Tips to Survive the Holidays and Focus on Family Life During a Divorce

The holiday season can be a difficult time for anyone going through a divorce. It’s a time when family traditions and expectations can clash with the reality of a changing family dynamic. But with some planning and preparation, it’s possible to survive the holidays and focus on what really matters: your family. Here are seven tips to help you get through the holiday season during a divorce:

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A Workable Parenting Plan

When parents decide to divorce, they will often work together to determine what is fair for the children. Many Tennessee families wonder if drafting a parenting plan can be accomplished so that the child's best interests are kept at the center. It is possible when facts are valued over emotions and individuals keep their goals and expectations realistic.

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Acadia Healthcare Settlement

Acadia Healthcare, a Franklin-based company, has reached a $20 million settlement with the U.S Department of Justice (DOJ). The company was the subject of a New York Times investigation earlier this month and had been accused of defrauding Medicare and Medicaid.

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Adoption in Tennessee

Tennessee law clarifies that one of the purposes of its adoption laws is to ensure children are raised in loving homes and that the provider is capable of providing proper care. Learn more.

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Assault, Aggravated Assault, and Domestic Assault

You may have questions about assault charges. This article talks about Tennessee assault, aggravated assault, and domestic assault.

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