Family Lawyer Knoxville TN
When your family faces a legal challenge, you need more than just an attorney — you need a dedicated family lawyer in Knoxville, TN who understands both the law and the deeply personal stakes involved. At John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law, we have spent years advocating for families throughout Knox County and the surrounding East Tennessee communities.
Whether you are going through a difficult divorce, fighting for custody of your children, seeking fair child support, or dealing with domestic violence, our Knoxville family lawyer is here to guide you every step of the way. We believe every family deserves personal attention, honest counsel, and aggressive representation when it truly counts.
Call (865) 419-9177 today or request your FREE 15-minute consultation online.
Why Choose Our Knoxville Family Law Firm?
Families throughout Knoxville, TN trust John T. Sholly for good reason. Here is what sets us apart from other family law firms in the area:
Exclusively Focused on Tennessee Family Law — Unlike large general practice firms, we concentrate our practice on family law matters. That means deeper knowledge of Knox County courts, local judges, and the specific procedures that govern your case under Tennessee law.
Personalized Service, Not Cookie-Cutter Advice — No two families are the same. When you work with our Knoxville TN family lawyer, you receive a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Convenient In-Home Visits Available — We understand that legal matters are stressful and that getting to an office is not always easy. We offer in-home visits so you can get the legal help you need in a comfortable setting.
Transparent, Honest Communication — We keep you informed at every stage of your case. You will always know where things stand and what to expect next.
Regardless of the particular issue that you’re currently facing, trust that we can assign an expert lawyer specializing in your case. Our comprehensive legal assistance leaves nothing to chance. We are meticulous about organizing documents, pieces of evidence, and witnesses to strengthen your case.
Whether you need help finalizing a prenup, fair divorce agreement, or require protection against ongoing domestic violence, John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law can give you the legal service you deserve. Don’t hesitate to call us, and we’ll work on your case as soon as possible.
Call John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law today at (865) 419-9177 for your consultation with a Knoxville Family Lawyer! We offer in-home visits for your convenience.
Comprehensive Family Law Services in Knoxville, TN
As your trusted family lawyer Knoxville community members rely on, we handle the full spectrum of Tennessee family law matters, including:
Our Knoxville family lawyers are well-versed in resolving all kinds of problems related to family law.
Divorce — Contested & Uncontested
Ending a marriage is one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. Our experienced Knoxville divorce attorney represents clients in both contested and uncontested divorce proceedings under Tennessee law.
In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all major issues — property division, child custody, and support. We help you document those agreements properly and move through the process as efficiently as possible.
In a contested divorce, where you and your spouse cannot reach agreement, our divorce lawyer will represent you vigorously in court. We build compelling arguments on your behalf regarding:
- Division of marital assets and debts (Tennessee is an equitable distribution state)
- Child custody and parenting plan arrangements
- Child support calculations under Tennessee’s income-sharing model
- Spousal support (alimony) — amount and duration
- Retirement accounts, real estate, and business interests
From the first filing through final decree, we work to achieve a resolution that protects your financial future and your children’s well-being
Knoxville Divorce Attorney – Protecting Your Rights
Our highly skilled divorce lawyer Knoxville can help you transition to a post-divorce lifestyle in the best way possible. We know that ending a marriage is never a pleasant experience, but our legal service can at least help you sort out the different issues with a divorce. 
Whether you’re facing a contested or uncontested divorce, our experienced Knoxville divorce attorney understands both paths under Tennessee law. In uncontested cases where spouses agree on major issues, we can expedite the process through divorce settlement. For contested divorces requiring court intervention, our divorce lawyer will expertly represent you through divorce trial to ensure the final divorce agreement has reasonable terms.
Whether you are the spouse filing for divorce or vice versa, we know how to best proceed for the most favorable outcome. As your trusted divorce attorney Knoxville, we’ll present a compelling argument so issues of child support, child custody, spousal support (alimony), and equitable asset division will end with terms that protect your financial future while prioritizing the children’s well-being.
Property & Asset Division
Tennessee law requires that marital assets be divided equitably — which means fairly, but not necessarily equally. The court weighs multiple factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial contributions, and future earning capacity.
Our Knoxville family lawyer will help you identify all marital property, properly value complex assets such as retirement accounts or family businesses, and advocate for an equitable share that reflects your contributions to the marriage.
If you and your spouse can reach agreement through negotiation or mediation, we will help you formalize a settlement that avoids prolonged court battles. If agreement is not possible, we are fully prepared to litigate on your behalf.
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Child Custody — Physical & Legal Custody
For most parents, child custody is the most important issue in any family law case. Our family lawyer Knoxville TN clients trust helps parents navigate both types of custody under Tennessee law:
Physical Custody refers to where the child lives on a day-to-day basis. It can be primary (the child resides mainly with one parent) or shared (the child spends significant time with both parents).
Legal Custody refers to the authority to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and general welfare. Tennessee courts often award joint legal custody, meaning both parents share decision-making authority.
Tennessee law requires a Permanent Parenting Plan in all cases involving children. This document outlines the custody schedule, holiday arrangements, and each parent’s responsibilities. Our attorneys help you draft a parenting plan that is fair, practical, and in your child’s best interests — then we advocate for its approval in court if necessary.
We also assist parents seeking to modify existing custody orders when there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a parent’s relocation, a change in work schedule, or concerns about the child’s well-being in the current arrangement.
Child Support Services
Tennessee uses an Income Shares Model to calculate child support, taking into account both parents’ gross incomes, the parenting time each parent exercises, health insurance costs, work-related child care expenses, and the number of children.
As your Knoxville family lawyer, we ensure that child support is calculated accurately and that any agreements reached reflect both the paying parent’s ability and the children’s genuine needs. Tennessee caps child support at statutory maximums:
- $2,100/month for one child
- $3,200/month for two children
- $4,100/month for three children
- $4,600/month for four children
- $5,000/month for five or more children
We also assist clients with child support modifications when income or parenting arrangements change significantly, and with enforcement actions when a parent is failing to pay court-ordered support.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Tennessee recognizes four types of alimony that may be awarded during or after a divorce:
Rehabilitative Alimony — Temporary support that helps a lower-earning spouse gain education or job skills to become self-sufficient.
Alimony in Futuro (Periodic Alimony) — Long-term support paid on a continuing basis, typically awarded in long marriages where one spouse cannot become fully self-supporting.
Transitional Alimony — Short-term support to help a spouse adjust to a new financial situation post-divorce.
Alimony in Solido (Lump-Sum Alimony) — A fixed total amount paid either in a lump sum or installments, which is not modifiable.
The court considers the length of the marriage, both spouses’ incomes and earning capacity, their standard of living during the marriage, and the contributions of each spouse when determining alimony. Our attorneys work to negotiate or litigate a fair spousal support arrangement that protects your financial stability.
Father’s Rights Lawyer
f you are an unmarried father in Tennessee, your parental rights are not automatic. Until paternity is legally established, the mother has sole custody of the child. Our Knoxville family lawyer helps fathers take the necessary steps to assert their rights:
- Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) — If both parents agree, paternity can be established by signing a VAP form at the hospital or through the Tennessee Department of Health.
- Genetic DNA Testing — If paternity is disputed, we pursue court-ordered DNA testing to establish the biological relationship.
- Petition for Parenting Time and Custody — Once paternity is established, we help you petition the court for a fair custody arrangement and parenting plan.
We also defend fathers who have been incorrectly identified as a child’s biological parent and wish to challenge paternity and their associated legal obligations
Domestic Violence Protection
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects families across Knox County. If you or a loved one is experiencing abuse, it is important to take immediate legal action. Our Knoxville TN family lawyer can help you:
- Petition for an Order of Protection — We help victims secure emergency and permanent protective orders that legally prohibit an abuser from contacting or coming near you and your children.
- File Criminal Charges — We work alongside law enforcement to ensure abusers are held accountable under Tennessee law.
- Safety Planning — We help you understand your legal options and take proactive steps to protect your safety.
We also provide defense representation for individuals who have been falsely accused of domestic violence, ensuring that all legal proceedings are fair and that your rights are protected.
Talk To Our Knoxville Legal Professional Today
Dealing with family law issues can tax your emotional and mental health extra. There is always the possibility that after the legal proceeding, your family will have a strained relationship that will only improve after some time.
That is why at John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law, we ensure that our family lawyer and his staff will handle your problem’s legal aspects most efficiently. This way, you can better focus on caring for your family and preparing to transition to a different lifestyle, all while being confident that your legal issues are being well-handled! Get help with our family law expertise today!
Call John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law today at (865) 419-9177 for your consultation with a Knoxville Family Lawyer!
When your family faces a legal challenge, you need more than just an attorney — you need a dedicated family lawyer in Knoxville, TN who understands both the law and the deeply personal stakes involved. At John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law, we have spent years advocating for families throughout Knox County and the surrounding East Tennessee communities.
Whether you are going through a difficult divorce, fighting for custody of your children, seeking fair child support, or dealing with domestic violence, our Knoxville family lawyer is here to guide you every step of the way. We believe every family deserves personal attention, honest counsel, and aggressive representation when it truly counts.
Call (865) 419-9177 today or request your FREE 15-minute consultation online.
Why Choose Our Knoxville Family Law Firm?
Families throughout Knoxville, TN trust John T. Sholly for good reason. Here is what sets us apart from other family law firms in the area:
Exclusively Focused on Tennessee Family Law — Unlike large general practice firms, we concentrate our practice on family law matters. That means deeper knowledge of Knox County courts, local judges, and the specific procedures that govern your case under Tennessee law.
Personalized Service, Not Cookie-Cutter Advice — No two families are the same. When you work with our Knoxville TN family lawyer, you receive a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Convenient In-Home Visits Available — We understand that legal matters are stressful and that getting to an office is not always easy. We offer in-home visits so you can get the legal help you need in a comfortable setting.
Transparent, Honest Communication — We keep you informed at every stage of your case. You will always know where things stand and what to expect next.
Regardless of the particular issue that you’re currently facing, trust that we can assign an expert lawyer specializing in your case. Our comprehensive legal assistance leaves nothing to chance. We are meticulous about organizing documents, pieces of evidence, and witnesses to strengthen your case.
Whether you need help finalizing a prenup, fair divorce agreement, or require protection against ongoing domestic violence, John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law can give you the legal service you deserve. Don’t hesitate to call us, and we’ll work on your case as soon as possible.
Call John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law today at (865) 419-9177 for your consultation with a Knoxville Family Lawyer! We offer in-home visits for your convenience.
Comprehensive Family Law Services in Knoxville, TN
As your trusted family lawyer Knoxville community members rely on, we handle the full spectrum of Tennessee family law matters, including:
Our Knoxville family lawyers are well-versed in resolving all kinds of problems related to family law.
Divorce — Contested & Uncontested
Ending a marriage is one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. Our experienced Knoxville divorce attorney represents clients in both contested and uncontested divorce proceedings under Tennessee law.
In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all major issues — property division, child custody, and support. We help you document those agreements properly and move through the process as efficiently as possible.
In a contested divorce, where you and your spouse cannot reach agreement, our divorce lawyer will represent you vigorously in court. We build compelling arguments on your behalf regarding:
- Division of marital assets and debts (Tennessee is an equitable distribution state)
- Child custody and parenting plan arrangements
- Child support calculations under Tennessee’s income-sharing model
- Spousal support (alimony) — amount and duration
- Retirement accounts, real estate, and business interests
From the first filing through final decree, we work to achieve a resolution that protects your financial future and your children’s well-being
Knoxville Divorce Attorney – Protecting Your Rights
Our highly skilled divorce lawyer Knoxville can help you transition to a post-divorce lifestyle in the best way possible. We know that ending a marriage is never a pleasant experience, but our legal service can at least help you sort out the different issues with a divorce.
Whether you’re facing a contested or uncontested divorce, our experienced Knoxville divorce attorney understands both paths under Tennessee law. In uncontested cases where spouses agree on major issues, we can expedite the process through divorce settlement. For contested divorces requiring court intervention, our divorce lawyer will expertly represent you through divorce trial to ensure the final divorce agreement has reasonable terms.
Whether you are the spouse filing for divorce or vice versa, we know how to best proceed for the most favorable outcome. As your trusted divorce attorney Knoxville, we’ll present a compelling argument so issues of child support, child custody, spousal support (alimony), and equitable asset division will end with terms that protect your financial future while prioritizing the children’s well-being.
Property & Asset Division
Tennessee law requires that marital assets be divided equitably — which means fairly, but not necessarily equally. The court weighs multiple factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial contributions, and future earning capacity.
Our Knoxville family lawyer will help you identify all marital property, properly value complex assets such as retirement accounts or family businesses, and advocate for an equitable share that reflects your contributions to the marriage.
If you and your spouse can reach agreement through negotiation or mediation, we will help you formalize a settlement that avoids prolonged court battles. If agreement is not possible, we are fully prepared to litigate on your behalf.
.
Child Custody — Physical & Legal Custody
For most parents, child custody is the most important issue in any family law case. Our family lawyer Knoxville TN clients trust helps parents navigate both types of custody under Tennessee law:
Physical Custody refers to where the child lives on a day-to-day basis. It can be primary (the child resides mainly with one parent) or shared (the child spends significant time with both parents).
Legal Custody refers to the authority to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and general welfare. Tennessee courts often award joint legal custody, meaning both parents share decision-making authority.
Tennessee law requires a Permanent Parenting Plan in all cases involving children. This document outlines the custody schedule, holiday arrangements, and each parent’s responsibilities. Our attorneys help you draft a parenting plan that is fair, practical, and in your child’s best interests — then we advocate for its approval in court if necessary.
We also assist parents seeking to modify existing custody orders when there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a parent’s relocation, a change in work schedule, or concerns about the child’s well-being in the current arrangement.
Child Support Services
Tennessee uses an Income Shares Model to calculate child support, taking into account both parents’ gross incomes, the parenting time each parent exercises, health insurance costs, work-related child care expenses, and the number of children.
As your Knoxville family lawyer, we ensure that child support is calculated accurately and that any agreements reached reflect both the paying parent’s ability and the children’s genuine needs. Tennessee caps child support at statutory maximums:
- $2,100/month for one child
- $3,200/month for two children
- $4,100/month for three children
- $4,600/month for four children
- $5,000/month for five or more children
We also assist clients with child support modifications when income or parenting arrangements change significantly, and with enforcement actions when a parent is failing to pay court-ordered support.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Tennessee recognizes four types of alimony that may be awarded during or after a divorce:
Rehabilitative Alimony — Temporary support that helps a lower-earning spouse gain education or job skills to become self-sufficient.
Alimony in Futuro (Periodic Alimony) — Long-term support paid on a continuing basis, typically awarded in long marriages where one spouse cannot become fully self-supporting.
Transitional Alimony — Short-term support to help a spouse adjust to a new financial situation post-divorce.
Alimony in Solido (Lump-Sum Alimony) — A fixed total amount paid either in a lump sum or installments, which is not modifiable.
The court considers the length of the marriage, both spouses’ incomes and earning capacity, their standard of living during the marriage, and the contributions of each spouse when determining alimony. Our attorneys work to negotiate or litigate a fair spousal support arrangement that protects your financial stability.
Father’s Rights Lawyer
f you are an unmarried father in Tennessee, your parental rights are not automatic. Until paternity is legally established, the mother has sole custody of the child. Our Knoxville family lawyer helps fathers take the necessary steps to assert their rights:
- Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) — If both parents agree, paternity can be established by signing a VAP form at the hospital or through the Tennessee Department of Health.
- Genetic DNA Testing — If paternity is disputed, we pursue court-ordered DNA testing to establish the biological relationship.
- Petition for Parenting Time and Custody — Once paternity is established, we help you petition the court for a fair custody arrangement and parenting plan.
We also defend fathers who have been incorrectly identified as a child’s biological parent and wish to challenge paternity and their associated legal obligations
Domestic Violence Protection
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects families across Knox County. If you or a loved one is experiencing abuse, it is important to take immediate legal action. Our Knoxville TN family lawyer can help you:
- Petition for an Order of Protection — We help victims secure emergency and permanent protective orders that legally prohibit an abuser from contacting or coming near you and your children.
- File Criminal Charges — We work alongside law enforcement to ensure abusers are held accountable under Tennessee law.
- Safety Planning — We help you understand your legal options and take proactive steps to protect your safety.
We also provide defense representation for individuals who have been falsely accused of domestic violence, ensuring that all legal proceedings are fair and that your rights are protected.
Prenuptial & Premarital Agreements
A prenuptial agreement is not a sign of distrust — it is a smart legal tool that protects both partners. Our family lawyer Knoxville drafts clear, enforceable prenuptial and postnuptial agreements that address:
- How property and debts will be divided in the event of divorce
- Protection of pre-marital assets, family inheritances, and business interests
- Provisions for spousal support
- Financial rights and responsibilities during the marriage
Tennessee courts uphold properly drafted prenuptial agreements when they are entered into voluntarily, with full financial disclosure on both sides. We ensure yours meets all legal requirements.
Adoption Services
Bringing a new child into your family through adoption is a joyful, life-changing event — but the legal process can be complex. Tennessee has strict procedural requirements for terminating biological parental rights and completing an adoption. Our Knoxville family lawyer guides adoptive families through:
- Stepparent Adoptions — One of the most common adoption types, we help stepparents legally adopt a spouse’s child from a previous relationship.
- Relative/Kinship Adoptions — Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives who wish to adopt a child in their care.
- Private Agency and Independent Adoptions — We work with licensed adoption agencies and facilitate independent adoption proceedings.
We handle all documentation, court filings, and hearings to make the adoption process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Juvenile Court Representation
Tennessee’s Juvenile Courts handle a broad range of matters beyond criminal cases, including:
- Dependency and Neglect Cases — If the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) has become involved with your family, our attorney represents parents and guardians in dependency and neglect hearings, working to reunite families whenever it is safe to do so.
- Juvenile Delinquency — We represent minors facing delinquency charges, ensuring their rights are protected and working for outcomes that prioritize rehabilitation over punishment.
- Custody Cases Not Related to Divorce — Juvenile Courts also hear custody cases involving unmarried parents and situations where grandparents or other relatives seek custody.
Parental Relocation
When a parent who shares custody wants to move more than 50 miles from their current residence or outside Tennessee, Tennessee law requires them to provide formal written notice to the other parent. If the other parent objects, the relocating parent must file a petition with the court.
Our family lawyer in Knoxville TN helps parents on both sides of relocation disputes — whether you are seeking to relocate for a better job, family support, or personal reasons, or whether you are opposing a move that would reduce your time with your child.
Understanding Tennessee Family Law: Key Facts
Navigating the Tennessee family law system is easier when you understand the framework. Here are several important points our Knoxville family lawyer wants you to know:
Tennessee is a No-Fault and Fault-Based Divorce State.
You can file for divorce on no-fault grounds (irreconcilable differences) or on fault-based grounds such as adultery, abandonment, cruel and inhuman treatment, or conviction of a felony.
Tennessee Requires a Waiting Period.
For divorces involving minor children, there is a mandatory 90-day waiting period after filing before the court can grant a divorce. Without minor children, the waiting period is 60 days.
The “Best Interests of the Child” Standard Governs Custody.
Tennessee courts evaluate 15 specific factors when determining custody arrangements, including the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s history of involvement in caregiving, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and any history of domestic abuse.
Mediation is Encouraged.
Knox County courts often require parties to attempt mediation before a contested custody or divorce trial. Our attorneys are experienced in both negotiation and mediation, and we use alternative dispute resolution to help clients reach agreements without the expense and emotional toll of a full trial — while remaining fully prepared to litigate when necessary.
Modifications Are Possible.
Court orders for custody, child support, and alimony are not necessarily permanent. Tennessee law allows for modifications when there is a material change in circumstances. We help clients seek or defend against modification requests.
What to Expect When You Work With Us
We know that reaching out to an attorney — especially for the first time — can feel overwhelming. Here is what our process looks like:
Step 1: Free 15-Minute Consultation. Contact us by phone at (865) 419-9177 or through our online form to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation. During this initial call, we listen to your situation and give you a clear sense of how we can help.
Step 2: Case Evaluation. If you decide to move forward, we conduct a thorough evaluation of your case, gather all relevant documents and evidence, and develop a strategic plan tailored to your goals.
Step 3: Representation & Advocacy. Whether your matter resolves through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, your Knoxville family lawyer will be by your side at every hearing and every step of the process.
Step 4: Resolution. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family — efficiently, effectively, and with as little additional stress as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Knoxville, TN
How long does a divorce take in Tennessee?
The timeline depends on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested. Uncontested divorces with no minor children can be finalized in as little as 60 days. Contested divorces with significant disputes can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years or more, depending on the complexity of the issues involved.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce in Tennessee?
While you are not legally required to have an attorney, it is strongly advisable. Even in “amicable” divorces, mistakes in documentation or settlement agreements can have long-lasting financial and legal consequences. Our Knoxville family lawyer ensures your uncontested divorce is handled correctly and protects your interests throughout the process.
How is child support calculated in Tennessee?
Tennessee uses the Income Shares Model. Both parents’ gross monthly incomes are combined, and a base child support obligation is calculated from a state schedule. That amount is then adjusted based on parenting time, health insurance costs, and work-related childcare expenses.
Can I modify my child custody order after it is finalized?
Yes. Tennessee courts allow custody modifications when there has been a material change in circumstances that affects the child’s best interests. Common examples include a parent relocating, a significant change in work schedules, remarriage, or a child’s changing needs as they grow older.
What is a Parenting Plan and is it required?
Yes — Tennessee law requires all divorcing parents to submit a Permanent Parenting Plan. This document establishes custody schedules, holiday and vacation arrangements, decision-making authority, and how future disputes will be handled. Our Knoxville family lawyer helps you draft a parenting plan that is practical, fair, and in your child’s best interests.
What is the difference between legal separation and divorce in Tennessee?
A legal separation allows spouses to live apart and divide assets and responsibilities without formally ending the marriage. It may be preferred for religious reasons or to maintain health insurance coverage. Either spouse can later convert a legal separation into a divorce.
Talk to Our Knoxville Family Lawyer Today
Your family’s future is too important to leave to chance. Whether you are facing a divorce, a custody dispute, a child support issue, or any other family law matter, John T. Sholly, Attorney and Counselor at Law is here to provide the skilled, compassionate legal representation you deserve.
We are proud to be one of the most trusted family law firms in Knoxville, TN — rated 5.0 stars by our clients and committed to delivering results that genuinely matter to the families we serve.
Call us today at (865) 419-9177 or fill out our online form to schedule your FREE 15-minute consultation.
We offer in-home visits for your convenience.