How your parenting plan will develop under Tennessee law

On Behalf of | Nov 11, 2022 | Divorce |

The Tennessee Parenting Plan law became effective on January 1, 2001, and officials set to work to help parents develop their plans.

A permanent parenting plan is a blueprint for parents to follow after divorce resulting in the need to build a new family structure.

About the parenting plan

The goal of the Tennessee Parenting Law is to help divorcing couples work together to meet the needs of the family in a post-divorce world. The parents should develop their plan with a main focus on the best interests of their children.

The parenting plan form

The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) developed a parenting plan form that went into effect in 2005. All Tennessee courts accept this form prepared with input from various organizations including the Family Law Section of the Tennessee Bar Association. Among the major elements is the residential parenting schedule. The plan must show who the children will reside with primarily and describe the day-to-day schedule of visitation times for the other parent. The plan must also indicate holiday and vacation schedules for the children.

Additional plan information

The state-approved parenting plan also contains information about major decisions, such as which parent will make the decisions about the children’s extracurricular activities, non-emergency healthcare and religious upbringing. The plan also guides parents about proof of income and outlines related childcare expenses. For example, parents should send copies of federal income tax returns to each other by April 15 of each year. The Tennessee Parenting Plan form contains several other sections, as well. If you have questions, rely on legal guidance to help you find the answers and complete your plan for the approval of the court.

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