Knoxville Family Law Blog
Have you named a guardian for your minor children?
As you assemble your estate plan, have you selected a guardian to take care of your minor children growing up in Tennessee? Should the worst happen and you pass before fully raising your kids, someone needs to step in to fill your shoes. U.S. News & World Report...
read moreUnderstanding Knoxville’s pet restrictions during a divorce
Tennessee residents may not always be aware that some cities have enforceable codes limiting the number of pets you can own, and violating the law may land you a fine. At Smith, Lehberger & Bodie, we assist in planning for the division of property and animals...
read moreCan I protect my court settlement from a divorce?
An impending divorce on top of a recent personal injury can add greater stress to your life that you do not need. If you have secured a Tennessee court settlement for your injury, you might fear your divorce will wipe away much of that settlement. However, personal...
read moreWhat is an advance directive?
There are many aspects to an estate plan. You have a wide range of options and documents you can include in your plan in Tennessee. Many of these do not even relate to your estate after your death. Instead, they dictate your wishes about what would happen if you were...
read more4 steps to starting the adoption process as a grandparent
Adopting your grandchild can put you in control of his or her future. Securing guardianship rights through adoption is generally the best way to take legal responsibility of your grandchild’s wellbeing. If you wish to adopt a grandchild in the state of Tennessee, take...
read moreWhat rights does a noncustodial parent have in Tennessee?
As the noncustodial parent after a Tennessee divorce, you may have concerns that your ex-spouse will edge you out of your child’s life, and you will lose the close relationship that you and your child shared before. The Knoxville Bar Association explains that the...
read moreHow can I change my name on my license after a divorce?
There are a lot of changes you have to make after getting a divorce in Tennessee. You may have to move to a new home, change your employment, share custody of your children and make many other changes to adjust to your life after marriage. If you decided one change...
read more5 ways to prepare a home and family for adoption
When Kentucky couples make the decision to adopt, there are many steps to be completed before a baby is placed in the home. Family members and prospective parents can prepare both emotionally, physically and financially before they even know a baby is coming so the...
read moreIs marriage a requirement for adoption?
If you are a Tennessee resident interesting in adopting a child, one of the first things you may want to do is ensure you meet all the state's requirements for adoptive parents. While some states only allow married couples to adopt children, Tennessee has no such...
read moreLiving wills and the Right to a Natural Death Act
During estate planning, many Tennessee residents choose to create a living will, or advance care plan, along with other important documents, such as a will. Creating a living will may allow individuals to make health care and end-of-life decision in advance. With an...
read more
