Life doesn’t stand still—and neither do the needs of your children. If you currently have a child custody agreement in place but circumstances have changed, you might be wondering: Can I modify my child custody agreement in Tennessee? The answer is yes, under certain conditions.
In this post, we’ll explore when and how custody agreements can be modified in Tennessee, what counts as a "material change in circumstances," and what the legal process involves—especially for families in Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
When Can Child Custody Be Modified in Tennessee?
Tennessee courts prioritize the best interest of the child, but they will only modify an existing custody order if there has been a material change in circumstances since the last order was entered.
Examples of a Material Change in Circumstances:
-
One parent relocates or plans to move
-
Changes in the child’s needs (medical, educational, emotional)
-
A parent’s work schedule shifts significantly
-
Evidence of abuse, neglect, or unsafe living conditions
-
A parent is not following the current custody order
The court will not approve a modification simply because one parent is unhappy with the arrangement. There must be clear evidence that the change will benefit the child.
How to Modify Child Custody in Tennessee
The legal process to modify child custody in Nashville or anywhere in Tennessee involves the following steps:
1. Attempt Mediation
Most parenting plans require that the parties attempt to mediate proposed changes before the judge will hold a hearing
2. File a Petition to Modify Custody
You must file a petition in the same court that issued your original custody order. The petition should detail:
-
The material change in circumstances
-
Why the proposed modification serves the child’s best interest
3. Notify the Other Parent
The other parent must be formally served with notice of the petition and given the opportunity to respond. In many cases, this leads to mediation or negotiation before a court hearing.
4. Court Review and Hearing
If the parties can’t agree, the judge will hold a hearing and consider a number of factors which include:
-
Each parent’s stability and home environment
-
The child’s relationship with each parent
-
School performance, health, and emotional needs
-
Willingness of each parent to foster a relationship with the other
5. Modification Order Issued
If the judge agrees that a modification is necessary and in the child’s best interest, a new order will be issued. This replaces the previous custody arrangement.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Modify Child Custody?
While you can technically file on your own, child custody modifications are complex—especially when contested. An experienced family law attorney in Nashville can help you:
-
Evaluate whether your case qualifies for modification
-
Draft and file your petition properly
-
Present persuasive evidence in court
-
Negotiate a new parenting plan that protects your child
Ready to Modify Your Custody Agreement?
If you’re facing a major change in your life—or if your child’s needs are no longer being met by the current arrangement—it’s time to explore your legal options.
At Nimmo Law, I help parents in Nashville and surrounding areas navigate custody modifications with clarity and compassion. Whether you're seeking more time with your child or protecting them from an unsafe environment, I am here to advocate for your family’s best interests.
📞 Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a custody arrangement that works for your family.