New Bill May Impact Child Custody

If a new bill is approved by Gov. Bill Haslam, judges will have to add a new dimension when considering child custody cases.

This bill is designed to allow the "maximum participation possible" by both parents. In most cases, judges have opted to give the mother full custody of the child, in favor of maintaining stability in that child's life. Taking into consideration both parents' locations, the new law will give both parents as much time with the child as possible, always keeping in mind what is best for that child. The statute enumerates ten factors that judges must take into considering when deciding time amounts in child custody cases.

Although the judge will have the ultimate discretion to decide the fate of the child in terms of custody, judges will be asked to consider this new law, if passed. Supporters of the bill hope that judges will increase the number of cases where joint custody is granted.

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