More than 50 years of combined experience resolving complex family legal matters throughout central Tennessee
Custody and visitation cases are often intensely emotional and distressing for both parents and children. Each parent has an equal right to participate in their child's life. In many situations, a father's rights may not be taken into consideration as much as is necessary to establish a satisfactory parenting schedule. At the law firm of Pate & Knott Attorneys at Law, we understand the personal and financial challenges associated with family conflicts and work hard to ensure that your rights are honored.
Helping you understand and take advantage of the established legal protections available for fathers
Many people assume that courts prefer to award mothers primary residential custody. However, each parent has the right to fully participate in raising their child and making decisions regarding their health, education and overall well-being. Recent studies have shown that children benefit from a well-rounded upbringing with equal input from each parent. Tennessee law specifically protects against gender discrimination in regards to parenting plans and states that the gender of the party seeking primary residential custody shall not lead to a presumption of parental fitness or a presumption in favor of or against such party. When establishing a custody and parenting plan, the court always considers the best interests of the child. In addition to the best interest's standard, the court analyzes several factors, including but not limited to:
- Each parent's current and past relationship with the child and involvement in the daily needs of the child
- The willingness of each parent to cooperate and co-parent while fostering a stable and close parent-child relationship with the other parent
- The mental, physical and emotional status and fitness of each parent
- Any history or evidence of physical or emotional abuse
- The child's personal preference if aged 12 or older
In many cases, one parent may want to relocate for various reasons such as a new or changing job opportunity or educational needs. The law prohibits gender from being a factor in favor or against the relocation of a parent.
Our attorneys have significant experience advocating for Tennessee fathers and helping them assert their rights to custody, visitation and child support. Our goal is to ensure that your child has a safe, fulfilling and well-rounded relationship with each parent.
Rely on staunch advocacy and dedication from a respected Murfreesboro law firm to protect your rights
At Pate & Knott Attorneys at Law, our father's rights attorneys have worked with many fathers to establish, enforce and modify parenting plans to ensure that they are in the best possible position to provide and care for their child. We offer free initial consultations in a supportive and compassionate environment. Our office is centrally located on the square in Murfreesboro near the judicial building. Call us at 615-848-1221 or contact us online to schedule an appointment to discuss your case.