Best Relocation Lawyers in Tennessee

When a move becomes a Tennessee custody case

Tennessee’s parental-relocation rules can apply when the parent who spends most of the residential parenting time plans to move out of state or more than 50 miles from the other parent within Tennessee. The existing parenting plan and court orders still matter, even when a proposed move falls outside that statutory threshold.

For a move covered by the statute, the relocating parent generally must give written notice by certified mail at least 60 days before moving. The other parent usually has 30 days after receiving notice to file an objection. If the parents disagree, the court considers the child’s best interests and practical arrangements for maintaining the child’s relationship with both parents.

A lawyer can review whether the statute applies, check the required notice and deadlines, and help present evidence or negotiate a revised parenting schedule. The need for legal help depends on the order, the parents’ agreement, and whether the move is contested.

When legal help can make a practical difference

• You are planning an out-of-state move or a move more than 50 miles away. A lawyer can check the parenting plan, prepare the statutory notice, and help avoid missed deadlines.

• You received notice and oppose the move. The 30-day objection period is short, and a lawyer can help file a timely petition and organize evidence about the child’s needs and parenting schedule.

• The proposed move would disrupt school, childcare, or regular parenting time. A lawyer can help assess travel, exchanges, school arrangements, and whether a workable revised schedule is possible.

• The parents disagree about the move’s purpose or its effect on the child. The court may weigh the reasons for and against relocation alongside the child’s relationships and practical needs.

• A parent moved, or plans to move, without proper notice. A lawyer can review the court order and advise whether to seek court intervention or a revised parenting schedule.

• Safety concerns or a history of interference with parenting time are involved. Counsel can help present relevant records and request orders that address the child’s safety and continued contact with each parent.

Tennessee laws that govern parental relocation

Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-6-108, “Relocation of parent,” sets out the notice and objection procedure for covered moves. It requires advance notice and provides a process for resolving a timely objection. The statute’s current best-interest framework took effect July 1, 2018.

Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-6-106, “Factors for determining custody,” lists factors courts use to assess a child’s best interests. These include the child’s relationships, needs, adjustment, and each parent’s ability to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.

Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-6-404, “Permanent parenting plan,” concerns parenting plans in cases involving minor children. A relocation may require changes to the schedule, transportation, or other plan terms, subject to the court’s orders and applicable procedure.

Frequently asked questions

Does every move require court approval?

No. The statutory relocation procedure generally applies when the parent who spends most residential parenting time plans to move out of state or more than 50 miles from the other parent within Tennessee. The existing order or parenting plan may impose additional requirements, so review it before moving.

Who must give notice under Tennessee’s relocation law?

The notice-and-objection procedure is framed around a parent who spends the majority of the residential parenting time with the child. If a parent with less residential parenting time plans to move, the parenting plan and any effect on the child’s schedule still need careful review.

How much notice must the relocating parent provide?

For a move covered by the statute, written notice generally must be sent by certified mail at least 60 days before the move. The notice should include the proposed new residence address, the reasons for moving, a proposed revised schedule, and information about the other parent’s right to object.

How long does the other parent have to object?

The other parent generally has 30 days after receiving the notice to file a petition opposing the move. Because missing that deadline can affect the case, get legal advice promptly after receiving notice.

What happens if no one files an objection?

If the other parent does not file a timely objection, the statute generally permits the relocation. The relocating parent must still follow the existing court order and any applicable parenting-plan terms.

What does a Tennessee judge consider if the move is contested?

The court applies the child’s best-interest standard. Relevant considerations include the child’s relationships and needs, the effect of the move, the feasibility of maintaining contact with the other parent, the child’s views when appropriate, and each parent’s reasons and conduct.

Can I move while an objection is pending?

Do not assume that a filed objection gives permission to move or automatically prevents a move. Check the court order and seek legal advice about whether to request a court decision before changing the child’s residence.

Does the 50-mile rule measure from my current home?

The statutory threshold refers to a move more than 50 miles from the other parent within Tennessee, not simply the distance from the relocating parent’s former home. A lawyer can assess the addresses, the parenting arrangement, and whether the statute applies.

How long does a contested relocation case take?

Tennessee law sets notice and objection deadlines, but the time to obtain a hearing or final ruling can vary by court and case complexity. A contested case may take weeks or months, so begin addressing the issue as early as possible.

How much does a relocation lawyer cost?

Fees depend on the lawyer, location, and whether the parents settle or proceed through hearings or trial. Ask for the hourly rate or other fee arrangement, any required retainer, likely additional costs, and a written description of the work covered.

Can the parents agree on a move without a hearing?

Parents can often resolve relocation and schedule issues by agreement, but the agreement should be written and consistent with the existing order. Ask a lawyer whether court approval or an amended parenting plan is needed to make the arrangement clear and enforceable.

What if the proposed move is less than 50 miles and remains in Tennessee?

The statutory relocation procedure may not apply, but a move can still affect the parenting schedule or conflict with an existing order. Review the order and get advice before changing the child’s residence or exchange arrangements.

Official Tennessee resources

• Tennessee Courts and the Administrative Office of the Courts: Provides information about Tennessee courts, court procedures, and court locations.

• Tennessee General Assembly: Publishes Tennessee statutes, including the relocation and parenting-plan provisions cited above.

• Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility: Provides information about attorney regulation and disciplinary matters. Use it when checking a lawyer’s professional standing.

Steps to find and hire a Tennessee relocation lawyer

1. Collect the key documents today. Gather the current custody order, permanent parenting plan, any relocation notice, and relevant messages or records about the proposed move.

2. Check the deadlines immediately. Note when notice was received and any planned move date. If you received notice, treat the 30-day objection period as urgent.

3. Find lawyers who handle Tennessee family-law and relocation disputes. Use a lawyer directory or referral service, then check professional-standing information through the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility.

4. Arrange consultations within the next few days if a deadline is near. Ask whether the lawyer has handled contested moves, which court would hear the case, and what immediate steps may be necessary.

5. Compare fees and communication expectations before hiring. Request the fee arrangement in writing and ask what work is included, how updates are handled, and what may increase the cost.

6. Agree on an initial case plan. Confirm who will prepare or respond to notice, whether to propose a revised parenting schedule, and whether negotiation or mediation is appropriate.

7. Keep following existing orders unless they are changed. Preserve records of parenting time, travel plans, and child-related expenses while your lawyer addresses any required court filings.