Tennessee 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 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 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 PostWhen couples in Tennessee decide to end their marriage, one of the first practical questions they face is whether their divorce will be contested or uncontested. Understanding that difference can help spouses anticipate how long the process may take, how much it may cost, and what kind of involvement they will need from the court and from attorneys. Both paths end in a legal divorce, but the route you take can shape the experience in very different ways.
View PostTennessee has taken steps in recent years to strengthen how domestic violence cases are tracked and reported. One idea that often raises questions is a domestic violence registry, especially whether being listed could affect someone’s life beyond the courtroom. Understanding what a registry is designed to do and how it typically works can help put these concerns in context.
View PostDomestic violence allegations in Tennessee don’t just threaten your freedom and reputation; they can also put your gun rights at serious risk. Understanding how state and federal law treat these accusations is critical for anyone who owns firearms or hopes to in the future. Hagar & Phillips Law Firm in Lebanon, Tennessee, supports clients across Middle Tennessee on the intersection of domestic charges, protective orders, and firearm possession.
View PostNavigating divorce raises tough questions about financial futures, especially around alimony, also called spousal support in Tennessee. At Hagar & Phillips Law Firm in Lebanon, Tennessee, we help Middle Tennessee families decode these complex laws to secure fair outcomes. Whether you're seeking support or defending against a claim, grasping Tennessee's alimony rules empowers informed decisions amid emotional proceedings.
View PostAdoption is a beautiful way to build or expand a family. At Hagar and Phillips Attorneys at Law, we believe that every child deserves a loving home, and we are dedicated to helping families through every step of this meaningful process. Whether you’re considering foster care adoption, step-parent adoption, independent adoption, or non-related adoption, understanding the different types and legal requirements is essential to making an informed decision. This blog is an educational guide to help you on your adoption journey in Tennessee.
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.
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