Nashville Family Law

Nashville Divorce Attorneys & Family Law Lawyers Help Resolve Disputes

Passionate, proactive and protective domestic lawyers

Divorce and family law are challenging areas of legal practice and require a special touch. No other type of legal dispute is quite as emotional. Managing and interpreting these emotions is essential, whether in the courtroom or at the mediation table. At Miller Upshaw Family Law, PLLC, we offer our clients more than 50 years of combined experience devoted to resolving divorce and family law issues. Our Nashville divorce attorneys understand the strain of divorce and other domestic relations disputes, and we try to get you back to your life as soon as we can.

However, we also know that a big part of getting results in family law matters is letting the other side know you are ready to go to court if that is what it takes. Our Nashville divorce attorneys have earned their reputations as aggressive, proactive advocates for our clients. We have the skills and the resources to take on even the most complex divorce cases, and have won substantial victories for our clients. When you need a skilled Nashville divorce lawyer to fight for your goals and your future, Miller Upshaw Family Law, PLLC is here.

Preparing you for life after a divorce

Beyond being emotionally taxing, divorce can be complicated. Even parties going through an uncontested divorce can benefit from experienced legal counsel. Having handled countless divorces in the Nashville and surrounding area, our attorneys can offer assistance with a wide variety of family law matters, from contested and uncontested divorces, to enforcement and modifications you may need after a divorce is final. Our broad experience covers nearly every aspect of Tennessee domestic relations law, including the following:

Testimonials

Rachel Sharp is an Excellent Lawyer

"I recently went through a divorce, which has been my most difficult experience thus far in life. I was dealing with so much stress and confusion, and I had so many questions. Rachel Sharp was an amazing lawyer. She was kind, personable, and understanding. She put my mind at ease immediately and walked me through every step of the process. She was attentive to my situation. Any time I called or emailed with a question it was answered quickly. She explained things to me in terms I could understand. In a time of uncertainty and instability in my life, Rachel was reliable, helpful, and supportive. She got me everything that I wanted in the divorce and I am beyond satisfied. She far exceeded my expectations for a lawyer. I highly recommend her."

Sara

Excellent lawyer, compassionate and understanding

"Rachel is a wonderful attorney. Never thought I would be getting divorced but she is a no nonsense lawyer who understands her clients and listens. She got me with the right mediator to get my divorce settled as quickly as she could. She knows how to cut through all the bs and work through issues that need to be dealt with great professionalism. I highly recommend Rachel!"

Crystal

Saving Grace

"I recently went through a very sudden and unexpected divorce and was blindsided with the reality of what that meant for me. Rachel was my saving grace and my guide. Her level headed and even handed approach to each staggering situation helped me to calmly and rationally navigate the waters, trusting her knowledge and experience to lead the way. Thank you Rachel."

Tim

Turned around a very bad situation

"After months of no action, mounting expenses and stress with another attorney, I switched to Rachel at the advice of a friend. Rachel did more to turn my case around in five minutes than my other attorney did in five months! Rachel is extremely responsive, knowledgeable and professional. I really appreciated the way she was able to take emotion out of the process and focus on the facts to make the best decisions for me and my children. I would highly recommend Rachel."

Client

A wonderful experience

"Rachel was an exceptional lawyer. She kept me very calm while I was going through an emotional time. Her responsiveness was quick and concise. I would highly recommend her."

Hillary

Glad I hired her!

"I hired Rachel to handle my divorce and also retained her to help with my parental relocation case. I hired her after having had an extremely negative experience with another attorney and having lost trust in attorneys. She blew me away with her responsiveness. She consistently responds to my emails and phone calls in 24 hours, often less. She has also been able to accomplish things at the last minute for me on several occasions. She is available and knowledgeable and personable. She is also honest with you about potential outcomes or problems. She has won me over! I am delighted I made the decision to hire her."

Client

Winner!

"I hired Rachel in May for a very complicated custody case. There were three different states involved and my son's father had no intention of backing down. Rachel always remained calm, collected, and informative. She responds quickly to emails and is very efficient. I am pleased to say that after 18 weeks and several court dates, Rachel was able to get my son's father and his attorney to sign an agreed parentage plan. She made me feel like she always had my back and she would only do what was in the best interest of me and my child. If you want someone who is going to work hard, care about your case, and put in the required efforts to WIN, then Rachel is who you should hire!"

Amanda

Melissa, a Child Support Client

Ms. Hewitt represented me in my divorce in 2003 and then again in 2008 when my ex-husband decided he did not want to decrease his child support payments. I cannot say enough great things about Ms. Hewitt. She was outstanding in mediation, court and everything in between. I have not needed an attorney since then but if I ever do Ms. Hewitt is the first attorney I will call. She is amazing.

Melissa, a Child Support

Competent professional

"I have had the pleasure of working with Rachel on two different occasions. My experience was consistent each time. Rachel was incredibly knowledgeable about the law, the process and the people. She was responsive to my inquiries and spent the time to ensure I was comfortable with the process throughout the proceedings and at the conclusion. I have recommended Rachel twice, with positive feedback, and will continue to do so."

Jack

I endorse this lawyer.

"Rachel helped me in my international divorce and custody case. I would recommend Rachel for any of your legal needs."

Natalie

Josh – Excellent and Tenacious

Karla represented me through a contested divorce and custody battle. Throughout the process she kept not only my best interests in mind, but that of my sons as well. It wasn't an easy case and it did take a lot of time and effort, but I never felt lost in it all thanks to her and her office. They worked with me to sift through all the legal hurdles to get me exactly the results I wanted. Thanks to Karla I have full custody of my sons...no small feat in and of itself for a single dad in Tennessee. If you want the best results, Karla is the best lawyer for the job.

Josh

Lori, a Divorce client

Divorce is a life changing event, it is critical that you have a good attorney. Karla and her staff are prepared and do not waste your time. I was thankful I made a good choice, I asked a friend and that's how I found Karla. While legal services aren't cheap you don't want to end up paying for an attorney that is not equipped to handle your case. I encourage you to use someone that will truly help you and have your best interest at heart.

Lori, a Divorce client

Jack, a Divorce client

Well represented me in my divorce and custody case. Karla aggressviely worked my case to establish a parenting plan allowing me to be very involved in my childrens lives. I highly reccomend her for anyone particularly men in divorce cases

Jack, a Divorce client

Divorce Client – I would definitely recommend Karla!

"I was referred to Karla by a friend when I learned that I would be going through an unexpected divorce and needed an attorney quickly. From my initial contact with Karla she was all I could have asked for and more. She was kind and compassionate (which was wonderful), but she was also very knowledgeable and quick to provide clear and meaningful legal advice. She provided timely guidance and support throughout the process.

I would definitely recommend Karla!"

Divorce Client

Honest and Reliable

"Not only do I respect Ms. Sharp on a professional level but she is also honest and reliable on a personal level. Ms. Sharp took time to meet with me every time I needed her and I never felt rushed or "a bother." She returned phone calls and emails promptly and was dependable on our court dates. As an attorney myself, I know that many clients expect us to be "miracle workers;" however, the essence of a good attorney is one that is truthful with the client concerning both the positives and negatives of a case. She did not promise me a certain outcome but rather worked with me to find the best solution for my situation. She was truly engaged in my situation and genuinely cared about me as a person. Family law matters are never easy to face; however, Ms. Sharp was exactly the person I needed to offer hope and support through professional and ethical legal guidance."

Rachel

Exceptional Attorney

"I’d recommend Rachel to any of my friends. After working with a couple attorneys in the past, I’ve learned you don’t always get what you pay for, and that initiative, preparation, and knowledge of “the system” are key qualities to seek in an attorney. Rachel represented me in a challenging custody case and I could not be more pleased with how she handled everything. She shot straight with me, guided me through a very daunting process and protected me from making emotionally driven decisions. While she never made any promises on judicial outcomes, she gave me confidence by being very clear about the strengths/weaknesses of my case and being VERY prepared. As a bonus, while always professional, she also has a good sense of humor (which really helped during the high stress moments!) A great attorney and worthwhile investment."

Client

Parenting Plan / Child Custody / Relocation

"I had a terrible experience with another Nashville attorney while trying to iron out a solid parenting plan. I had almost given up on everything until I contacted Rachel. She was honest, diligent and always prepared. I have had to use Rachel several times over the past two years to deal with a difficult family situation and I am very pleased with the results. I would highly recommend Rachel to anyone dealing with divorce or child custody issues and I will continue to use her in the future if necessary."

Thomas

Beth, Divorce Client

After finding myself in a precarious situation with my soon to be x-husband, I was in search of an attorney that would be pro-active, responsive and ultimately be an advocate for myself and my children. All of these things I found during my initial consultation with Karla Hewitt and much much more! What's better yet...is that she's great in court. She has surrounded herself with long-term staff members that enhance her legal team. Their due diligence uncovered many truths that I was not willing to accept at the time, but later became beneficial to my case. I found her staff to be responsive to my requests and always found her to be trustworthy. This is something invaluable when trying to decide on an attorney. I have recommended her to numerous people now !

Beth, Divorce Client

Lindsey, a Family client

Karla and her staff are wonderful! They have been a huge help to my family and I. When my husband passed away, I had no legal rights to keep my step daughter that I had raised with my husband. She was put into states custody and When I contacted Karla's office, they were committed to helping my daughter return home. They answered any questions I had about the case and were always ready to explain the What, When and How about everything we encountered. I would recommend Karla and her staff to anyone that needed help with a family court case. Thanks Guys!

Lindsey, a Family client

No nonsense

"Rachel is a no nonsense attorney that listens and understands your issues. Let me rephrase, listens. Hard to find. She helped me tremendously and I have and will recommend her to anyone."

Jeremy

EXCELLENT EXCELLENT

"Rachel assisted me with not only my divorce but also a later custody battle. She was very responsive, direct and talented. All of which resulted in a positive outcome. She always had my best interest in mind. She is down to earth, easy to work with and made the entire process very comfortable. If you are looking for a Trustworthy, hard working, open / honest, positive results, all around professional attorney; Rachel Sharp IS it."

Darryl

Divorce Client

It feels very good to be in court and day after day feel that you are represented by the best.

Divorce Client

Family Law Client

Karla is confident and knowledgeable. Her positive personality and "take no prisoners" attitude gives me the comfort I need in my life changing case. She and her team continue to be one step ahead of the other side, and all truly have my best interest at heart.

Family Law Client

Very Blessed

"I found Rachel at a time of need. She made a difficult period in my life very bearable to say the least. As a completely knowledgeable and compassionate woman, she took to me through a very challenging time in a very professional and caring manner. I would recommend Rachel to anyone who is in need of legal counsel with family life matters. I personally felt very blessed to have Rachel in my corner to see my case to a successful closure."

Client

Honest and Trustworthy

"Ms. Sharp represented me in my divorce that involved a minor child. Ms. Sharp was very informative and honest. She was great at explaining everything in the process and made sure I thought out some very difficult decisions. She always returned my calls and emails in a timely manner. I would highly recommend Ms. Sharp."

Melissa

Divorce Client – Worth Every Penny!

"I have been very fortunate over the years to have not needed the services of a lawyer so when it came time to find a divorce lawyer it was a little intimidating. Due to the circumstances surrounding said divorce I had a short window of time to find a good one in order to take advantage of certain opportunities. Boy did I get lucky. Karla was able to explain the process in layman's terms from the start which really put me at ease. She and her professional staff were accomodating and provided honest advice throughout the process even if I didn't want to hear it. Karla was so prepared compared to the opposing lawyer it almost seemed unfair. Her experience in general and especially in Wilson County was invaluable in my case. In the end, Karla helped me avoid an expensive hearing by brokering a very favorable mediation settlement. While I hope I don't need another lawyer for the foreseeable future, I would have no hesitation recommending Karla and her firm to my closest family and friends."

Divorce Client

A bridge over troubled waters

"Divorce is the #2 most stressful things in life, a close 2nd to the death of a loved one. This was no different for my situation. Never thought I'd be seeking a divorce, but lo and behold, here I was. With many questions and deep stress over what to do I found (or was led to) Miss Rachel, who was the ideal attorney for me, looking back at the results. Rachel is very effective, efficient, professional, intelligent, knowledgeable, and keen and no non-sense about her profession; but she is also kind, thoughtful, and patient. I spilled over concerns about father's rights, voiced over my sweet 2-year old daughter, who is unfortunately involved in the middle of her mom and dad's irreconcilable differences. Rachel worked with me, going the extra miles, to prepare and create a court-ordered plan that I could not be more pleased with [big sigh of relief]. Rachel is not mean or nasty, but a focused and persistently effective attorney that will seek justice for you in your situation. I have the utmost respect for her, and highly recommend her work and services to you."

Client

The complexities of divorce for clients with substantial assets

When a couple decides to end their marriage – even in cases where both parties are amicable and in agreement – disputes are almost guaranteed to arise when it comes to dividing assets. For couples who have amassed numerous assets and properties over the course of few or manty years, these disputes can often become quite contentious. Our Nashville complex divorce lawyers work with economic and financial experts when necessary to ensure the just valuation and equitable division of:

  • Joint and family businesses, as well as shares or ownership stakes
  • Large-scale marital estates
  • Real property, including those with attached rights
  • Pensions, QDROs, military pensions and retirement accounts
  • Antiques, jewelry, autos or other valuable collectibles
  • Trusts

We also assist clients who wish to create pre-nuptial agreements in the event of a life change later on, to protect their children as well as themselves.

We understand the issues that need to be addressed before a divorce can be finalized. Our Nashville divorce attorneys have helped clients successfully navigate their way through spousal support agreements and property division in a rational way. In cases where the divorce becomes particularly contentious, we are prepared to go to court if the other party refuses to be reasonable.

Child custody

Whether in the context of a divorce or between unwed parents, determining all of the points of a child custody agreement is rarely easy. We have helped many parents negotiate parenting plans and custody agreements out of court – but we are also prepared to fight for parents seeking sole custody or seeking joint custody over the resistance of the other parent. For same-sex couples, issues of paternity can affect both parenting time and support payments. Our Nashville same-sex divorce lawyers are well-versed in the legal statutes regarding these issues, and have the experience to take on even the most complicated cases.

Child support

Whether married or unmarried, parents have a legal obligation to contribute to the support of his or her children. However calculating child support is not always straightforward. You can rest assured that our lawyers have the experience to help you sort through the many considerations that affect the child support calculation, and to arrive at an amount that is proper under the circumstances of your case, whether by agreement or in court.

In the News

Karla Miller speaks to FOX 17 about Orders of Protection, following the tragic death of her client and her client’s mother. Watch the interview here

We are dedicated advocates ready to fight for you and your family

You can count on the Nashville divorce attorneys from Miller Upshaw Family Law, PLLC to be by your side throughout your challenging domestic relations matter. On Woodland Street in historic Edgefield, our Nashville office is within sight of the courthouse and offers free parking. We serve clients throughout Nashville, Franklin, Hendersonville, Brentwood, Murfreesboro, Gallatin, Lebanon, Mt. Juliet, and Dickson. Call us today at 615-391-4200 or contact us to reserve an in-person or video consultation with an experienced Nashville divorce attorney.