Child Custody

Types of child custody include legal custody and physical custody. Tennessee law describes legal custody as the final decision-making authority. Physical custody defines where the child resides.

Either sole or joint custody, as well as mixed custody arrangements, shall be awarded on a case-by-case basis, depending on what would be in the child's best interests.

In a divorce with minor children involved, Tennessee courts consider the child's attachment to the current home, school, and community, each spouse's parenting skills, willingness to cooperate, and the ability to provide for the child's education, food, shelter, medical care, etc., the mental and physical health of all parties involved, and any other factors and circumstances the court may deem important.