How Do I Leave Money to My Favorite Charity or Church?
This is one of the most important reasons to take care of your estate planning. Executing a will allows you to provide for how your estate will be divided at your death. If you wish to leave property or funds to your favorite cause, you must have a will, as Tennessee state laws for [...]
Who Can Make a Last Will & Testament?
In Tennessee, anyone over the age of 18 can execute a will, as long as they are of sound mind. This means the person must understand the consequences of their actions, and the person should generally have an understanding of their assets and potential heirs. The person executing the will is known as the [...]
What is a Marital Dissolution Agreement?
An MDA is essentially a contract entered into by divorcing spouses, and this contract addresses how the parties’ assets and debts will be divided. This document can also provide for the division of retirement funds, for spousal support and for issues related to health insurance coverage.
How long does it take to get a divorce in Tennessee?
Tennessee law requires that all divorces be on file for at least 60 days prior to being finalized. If minor children are involved, the divorce will have to be on file for at least 90 days. Typically, uncontested divorces can be finalized shortly after the waiting period. However, contested divorces could last anywhere between [...]
What if I don’t know where my spouse is living but want to get divorced?
One requirement after you file for divorce is that you “serve” your spouse with divorce papers. However, if your spouse’s whereabouts are unknown, this can be a difficult task to accomplish. If the filing spouse proves to the judge that he or she has made a “good faith effort” to locate the other spouse, [...]
What should I look for in an attorney?
If you have never worked with an attorney before, choosing one can be an intimidating process. First and foremost, family law cases are deeply personal, and you need to work with an attorney that you like and trust. Also, look for an attorney who is experienced in handling your type of case. If you [...]
What Counties Do You Work In?
Our office serves the following Counties: Cheatham County Davidson County Dickson County Maury County Montgomery County Robertson County Rutherford County Sumner County Williamson County Wilson County ** We have represented clients in counties that are farhter away, such as Smith County, Putnam County, DeKalb County, Warren County, Coffee County and Hamilton County as well. [...]
What is CASA?
CASA stands for "Court Appointed Special Advocates", and this organization professionally trains volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children in Tennessee juvenile courts. These volunteers are appointed by judges on specific cases, and each CASA worker advocates for the best interests of the children involved. The goal of every CASA volunteer is to [...]
Where can I read about Tennessee divorce and custody laws?
Most statutes governing Tennessee family law, including divorce, adoption, custody and child support are found in Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 36. And, of course, there is case law handed down regularly by the Tennessee Court of Appeals and Tennessee Supreme Court. A quick internet search for Tennessee Code Annotated Section 36 should bring up [...]
Can I follow you on other social media sites?
Yes! I continually post breaking Tennessee family and estate law news. I also post articles that could provide you with valuable information to raising your children in a broken family. Connect with me on LinkedIn. "Like" us on Facebook! Follow Lauren on Twitter: @lwcastles. Find us on Google+. You will notice buttons on the bottom of each page [...]