The National Parents Organization recently issued its 2014 Shared Parenting Report Card, which they describe as “the first national study to provide a comprehensive ranking of the states on their child custody statutes, assessing them primarily on the degree to which they promote shared parenting after divorce or separation.” According to the organization, Tennessee – and 22 other states – received a “D” for their child custody statutes.

The study found that Tennessee’s statute “does not contain any policy statement or other language encouraging shared parenting,” noting that the state only agrees that shared parenting is best for the child when the parents agree to it. The study also mentions that the state does not have any definitive policies regarding shared parenting during temporary or final orders.

But there is a silver lining: the law forces judges to consider the importance of the “friendly parent,” and new changes to the statute make it much easier for noncustodial parents to gain access to their children via email or phone, as well as increased access to their children’s medical records and school records.

Where do we go from here?

The National Parents Organization focuses solely on the laws and statutes governing shared parenting in all 50 states. It does not assess how well (or how poorly) divorced parents handle shared parenting plans. This is one reason why mediation is key to helping your children.

The mediation process picks up where the laws end, by offering parents an opportunity to discuss their needs and plans for shared parenting in a calm, stress-free environment. The courts require mediation in child custody cases because it often prevents parents from becoming embroiled in a battle for custody rights. By working collaboratively through mediators, divorcing parents can find the parenting solution that works best for their children, giving their kids the emotional and financial support they need to live happy and healthy lives.

We are disappointed to see that Tennessee ranked so low in the organization’s eyes, but we know it only tells half the story. If you and your soon-to-be-former spouse need assistance with a parenting plan, contact Miller Upshaw Family Law, PLLC. We can help you plan for your children’s future in a way that is just and fair to them.