Grandparents’ Rights In Tennessee
Last updated on December 29, 2025
Grandparents often play a vital role in a child’s life, providing stability, care and emotional support. Tennessee law recognizes grandparents’ rights in limited circumstances, but it sets specific legal standards that must be met before a court will intervene.
At The Law Office of Steven C. Girsky, attorney Steven C. Girsky represents families throughout Clarksville, Tennessee, and surrounding areas, including Montgomery County and nearby Hopkinsville, Kentucky. His family law practice focuses on guiding grandparents through the complex legal pathways available under Tennessee grandparents’ rights statutes, with a clear understanding of how courts balance parental authority against a child’s well-being.
What Legal Options Do Grandparents Have In Tennessee?
Tennessee provides two distinct legal paths for grandparents seeking to protect their relationship with a grandchild.
Grandparent Visitation Under Tennessee Law
Grandparent visitation is governed by TCA § 36-6-306 and applies only when statutory prerequisites are met. These cases typically involve situations such as the death of a parent, divorce, legal separation or prolonged interruption of the grandparent-grandchild relationship. To proceed, a grandparent must show a significant existing relationship with the child and prove that denial of visitation would cause substantial harm.
Seeking Custody As A Grandparent
Grandparent custody in Tennessee involves a much higher legal standard. Custody cases are usually filed in Juvenile Court and require proof that both parents are unfit, or that placing the child with a parent would expose the child to substantial risk of harm. This is considered third-party custody and may involve issues such as abuse, neglect, substance misuse or long-term inability to parent.
Why Legal Guidance Matters In Grandparents’ Rights Cases
Grandparents’ rights cases involve constitutional parental rights and detailed statutory analysis. Attorney Girsky carefully evaluates whether statutory gateways are met, gathers evidence related to substantial harm or parental unfitness, and presents a clear, child-focused argument grounded in Tennessee law.
Speak With A Clarksville Grandparents’ Rights Lawyer
Attorney Girsky is committed to helping grandparents protect meaningful relationships with their grandchildren while respecting the legal framework Tennessee courts apply.
For a free consultation with a grandparents’ rights attorney in Clarksville, Tennessee, call 931-266-4689 or complete the online contact form through The Law Office of Steven C. Girsky.