Franklin & Nashville Child Support Lawyers
Parents going through a divorce are often deeply concerned about what happens next for their children. The custody arrangements to be decided are vital, to be sure, but there’s something even more important—how will the children have their basic needs met? Child support is a fundamental issue in divorce cases where the kids are involved, and our lawyers have extensive experience in securing agreements that are fair for all involved.
Garrett Talley & Thorington has been a staple of the community here in Franklin and the Greater Nashville Area since 1973. Personalized service is the hallmark of what we do. The clients who come to us are treated for who they are—real people who need a compassionate voice coupled with strong professional guidance.
Call (629) 245-2933 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment.
Factors That Can’t Impact Child Support in Tennessee
While Tennessee law allows for child support modifications under significant circumstances, certain factors cannot be used as valid reasons to alter an existing order:
- Temporary financial difficulties or minor changes. Short-term financial struggles, such as temporary job loss or minor income fluctuations, typically do not meet the threshold for a modification. Change must be both substantial and ongoing.
- Voluntary unemployment or underemployment. If a parent intentionally reduces their income by quitting a job or accepting lower-paying work without a valid reason, this cannot justify a modification of child support.
- A new spouse’s income. The income of a parent’s new spouse is not factored into child support calculations. Tennessee’s child support framework is based solely on the income of the legal parents.
These restrictions are intended to maintain fairness and consistency in Tennessee child support determinations.
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When Child Support Can Be Modified
Life changes, and sometimes support agreements have to evolve. Child support is subject to modification under certain circumstances. However, changes must be reviewed and approved by the court. Modifications are generally allowed when there is a significant change in circumstances affecting one or both parents or the child.
Here are some of the most common reasons a court would approve a modification request:
- Income changes. This could include job loss, a significant pay increase, or other financial shifts materially impacting a parent’s ability to meet their support obligation.
- Changes in parenting time. If the amount of time a child spends with each parent changes significantly, the financial obligations may need to be recalculated to reflect the new arrangement.
- Changes in the child’s needs. New medical treatments or other unique circumstances affecting the child's well-being can prompt a reevaluation of the support amount.
- Additional children. If a parent has additional children to support from a new relationship or marriage, this may be considered when assessing their financial capacity and adjusting existing child support obligations.
How Child Support Is Determined in Tennessee
The state of Tennessee calculates child support by using a standardized formula designed to promote fairness and consistency while prioritizing the well-being of the child. Several key factors contribute to determining the appropriate child support amount…
The Income Shares Model
Tennessee employs the income shares model, which calculates child support based on the combined income of both parents. Each parent’s share of the support obligation is then proportional to their individual contribution to the total income. For instance, if one parent earns 60% of the combined income, they will typically be responsible for 60% of the child support obligation.
Parenting Time
Parenting time, also known as the number of days each parent spends with the child, significantly influences the final calculation. The state adjusts child support obligations based on the percentage of time the child resides with each parent. A parent with substantial parenting time may see a reduction in their financial obligation to reflect the costs incurred while caring for the child.
Number of Children
Another primary factor is the number of children shared between the parents. Tennessee’s guidelines account for the increased costs associated with raising multiple children. Support amounts are adjusted accordingly, aiming to ensure all the children’s needs are met equitably.
Healthcare Costs
Both parents are generally considered responsible for making sure their child has adequate health insurance. Child support calculations should take into account premiums, as well as out-of-pocket expenses such as co-pays or prescription costs.
Education Expenses
Support may also encompass educational needs, such as books, supplies, or extracurricular activities. Depending on the circumstances, private school tuition could be factored into the final support plan.
Childcare Costs
Expenses related to childcare, especially for younger children or those with working parents, are considered in developing the final support amount. This includes daycare fees or the costs for after-school care.
These, and other factors, are considered comprehensively, with the understanding that every case is different. By using this structured approach, courts and parents can work toward fair and dependable support arrangements for their children’s well-being.
Protecting Parents and Children
Parents going through a divorce are often hurting and need someone to give them a voice in the legal proceedings that will decide the fate of their children. We’re here to give them that voice. Our lawyers handle child support matters with attention to detail, sensitivity, and conviction because our clients deserve no less.
Call our Franklin office today at (629) 245-2933
Our Core Values
Guiding Every Case with Integrity and Purpose
At Garrett Talley & Thorington, our values aren’t just words—they’re the foundation of how we serve our clients. From honest communication to strategic advocacy, these principles shape every decision we make and every relationship we build.
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Dedicated to Protecting Your FutureWhether you're facing divorce, custody, or another family law matter, we’re here to secure the best outcome for you and your family.
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Personalized Advocacy for Every ClientNo two families are the same. We take the time to understand your story and craft a legal approach that protects what matters most to you.
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Clear Communication. Strategic Guidance.We keep you informed every step of the way, offering honest advice and a well-defined legal strategy built around your goals.
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Proven Legal Experience You Can TrustWith decades of combined experience, our attorneys deliver reliable, results-driven representation in even the most complex cases.
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Compassionate Counsel When It Matters MostWe understand the emotional weight of family law matters and provide empathetic guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.