by Mandy Hancock Law | Aug 27, 2026 | Adoption
Summary: Tennessee law allows any adult over eighteen to petition to adopt, with no marriage requirement. Single-parent adoption requirements center on stability and a completed home study, not marital status. Key Takeaways Tennessee statute permits any person over... by Mandy Hancock Law | Jun 12, 2026 | Adoption
Summary: Tennessee recognizes several different types of adoption, including agency, private, stepparent, relative, foster-to-adopt, international, and adult adoption. Each path has its own legal requirements, timeline, and costs under Tennessee law. Key Takeaways... by Mandy Hancock Law | Jun 1, 2026 | Adoption, Divorce
Key Takeaways: Stepparent adoption creates a permanent legal parent-child relationship Once finalized, the adoptive parent has the same rights and responsibilities as a biological parent If divorce happens before adoption is finalized, the process may be delayed or... by Mandy Hancock Law | Mar 9, 2026 | Adoption, Family Law
When people hear the word “adoption,” they often picture young children, home studies, and custody battles in family court. However, adoption doesn’t always involve minor children. In many cases, adult adoption can be a beautiful, practical legal step that reflects... by Mandy Hancock Law | Dec 22, 2025 | Adoption
Deciding to adopt is a deeply personal journey. Many families experience a blend of excitement, nerves, and anxious questions about what the road ahead will look like. Across Tennessee (including Knoxville, Maryville, and surrounding communities), families often share... 
by Mandy Hancock Law | Sep 1, 2025 | Adoption, Family Law
Are you ready to claim your place in your child’s life, not just in love, but legally? Stepparent adoption includes more than mere paperwork. It’s a declaration that your bond is unshakable and you are fully committed to parenting and loving your spouse’s child(ren)....