Tennessee courts decide divorce outcomes based on equitable distribution principles, prioritizing the child’s best interests for custody and evaluating need, duration of marriage, and fault for alimony. No major legislative changes to divorce laws occurred in 2026.
Child Custody Process
Courts award sole or joint custody using the best interest standard from Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-6-106, considering factors like parental fitness, child adjustment, and each parent’s willingness to foster the child’s relationship with the other parent. Joint custody is favored when feasible, but sole custody goes to the primary residential parent if evidence shows it’s better for the child; no presumption exists for mothers or fathers. Temporary custody orders can…..