- DivorceIn many cases, the decision to end the marriage is mutual, and the parties are able to work out a settlement agreement that addresses key issues like division of assets, alimony, child support and child visitation. This is called an uncontested divorce. In a contested divorce, the spouses cannot resolve these issues and ask the court to intervene.
- Child SupportIn Tennessee, courts must follow specific guidelines when deciding if the noncustodial parent should make child support payments. The guidelines take into account the needs of the child and the financial resources of both spouses. In order for the guidelines to work properly, both parents must be open and honest about their assets and income, as well as the financial needs of the child.
- Child Custody and VisitationAs a small firm, we offer our clients personalized service that addresses their unique legal problems. Whether you have been seriously injured at work or are struggling with a child custody issue, we listen carefully to your concerns. Most important, we devise a legal strategy that protects your best interests and lets you move on with your life. We always address your case in a way that best suits you.
- Adoption
- Paternity
- GuardianshipA Tennessee court must authorize both forms of legal protection. The court will also supervise the activities of the conservator and guardian and require periodic updates. To determine if a conservatorship or guardianship meets your needs, consult with an experienced Tri-Cities probate lawyer. We thoroughly explain your options and walk you through the court process.
- Spousal SupportAlimony is financial support paid from one spouse to another. Alimony may take a number of different forms, including rehabilitative alimony, periodic alimony, transitional alimony or lump sum alimony, depending on the purpose for which it is awarded. For instance, rehabilitative alimony is awarded on a short-term basis to help a spouse become self-sufficient after a divorce by pursuing educational or job training.
- Criminal DefenseA criminal conviction can be devastating for you and your family. No matter what the charges, you need an experienced lawyer at your side. Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys will work with prosecutors to dismiss or reduce the charges against you. If necessary, we fight the allegations in court. We routinely represent defendants in the Tri-Cities who are charged with...
- DUI/DWITennessee aggressively prosecutes DUI offenses, which may be proven by a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of.08 or higher or other evidence of driver impairment (field sobriety testing, officer testimony, etc.). Even for first-time offenders, the consequences are significant. They include...
- Wrongful DeathOur Bristol car crash lawyers have extensive experience helping victims of all types of auto wrecks, including bus, truck and motorcycle accidents. Our team has successfully helped countless victims recover damages through settlements and litigation. We have represented clients in all types of claims, from simple insurance claim disputes to complex wrongful death lawsuits.
- Traffic ViolationsThe term "speeding" generally refers to exceeding posted speed limits or driving too fast for existing conditions. Despite national and statewide safety efforts, speeding is still a leading cause of serious auto accidents. It is a contributing factor in as many as one-third of all U.S. traffic fatalities.
- Sex CrimesTennessee characterizes offenses based on their gravity. Felonies are the most egregious offenses and carry punishments of at least one year in prison. Common felonies include kidnapping, rape, murder and arson. The most serious class of felony (capital crime) is punishable by life in prison or death.
- RobberyRobbery, a more serious offense, is a theft committed by violence or putting the victim in fear. "Aggravated robbery" involves the use of a deadly weapon or results in serious injury to the victim. Robbery is a Class C felony in Tennessee, while aggravated robbery is a Class B felony. Because felony convictions carry very significant consequences, you should always consult an experienced Tri-Cities criminal defense lawyer if charged. We can help you evaluate all your possible defenses and come up with a strategy to successfully resolve your case.
- Burglary
- Theft
- MisdemeanorsControlled substances are classified by their potential for abuse, utility in medical treatment and potential for dependency. The state imposes the most serious penalties for Schedule I substances that include heroin, LSD and methaqualone. Conversely, distribution of a small amount of marijuana (less than one-half ounce) is a Class A misdemeanor.
- Embezzlement
- Drug CrimesDrug crimes can result in a wide variety of penalties, depending on the nature of the controlled substance and the offense. In addition to simple possession, Tennessee makes it illegal to...
- AssaultMisdemeanors involve less serious crimes but are also divided into subcategories. The penalties range from 30 days in jail to just less than one year in jail. Monetary penalties start at $50 and increase to $2,500. Misdemeanors include DUI, possession of marijuana and simple assault.
- Murder
- Arson
- Kidnapping
- Hit and RunNotify the police. If you have been involved in a car crash, motorcycle accident or truck wreck, call the police. Accidents must be reported to the police or you can be charged with a hit-and-run. You must be honest with the police, but do not volunteer any extra information. Allow your accident attorney to speak on your behalf when possible.
- Workers CompensationIf your claim is approved, your first SSD benefits will be paid on the sixth full month after the date of the commencement of your disability. Unlike workers' compensation benefits, your payment is not determined by your degree of disability. Rather, your monthly disability benefit is based on your average lifetime earnings.
- Premises LiabilityA different premises liability standard applies if the dog bite occurs on the owner's residential, farm or other noncommercial property, or while the dog is on such property by the permission of the landowner. In these cases, the injury victim must establish that the dog's owner knew or should have known of the dog's dangerous propensities. Tennessee is the only state in the country that has a residential exception for dog bite attacks.
- Property DamageWhen drivers fail to exercise reasonable care, they are accountable for any injuries they cause. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.
- Personal InjuryHelping clients in the Tri-Cities resolve personal injury, family, criminal and probate matters for more than 100 years
- Auto Accidents
- Social Security DisabilityApplying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a stressful and complicated process. The disability lawyers of Massengill, Caldwell & Coughlin, PC are passionate and experienced legal advocates who can guide you through the process. Our law firm has served the Tri-Cities since 1909, and we take pride in every case we handle.
- Dog BitesDog bites -- Dog owners can potentially be strictly liable for injuries caused by their animals. We help you recover the costs of medical treatment, including reconstructive surgery.
- Estate PlanningAt Massengill, Caldwell & Coughlin, PC, our lawyers work with you to prepare a will that protects your assets and your loved ones. We can also assist with estate administration. Call us today at 423.212.5042 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.
- WillsFor someone unfamiliar with the probate process, the job can be daunting. Our experienced wills and probate attorneys guide you through the process by...
- Trusts
- Power of AttorneyWills and probate -- When drafting end-of-life documents, we listen to your concerns and create a will, power of attorney and living will that reflects your wishes and protects your assets. Our lawyers also work with administrators to ensure a smooth probate process.
- ProbatePreparing a will or administering the estate of a loved one requires sound legal advice. Massengill, Caldwell & Coughlin, PC has served the Tri-Cities region since 1909. Our current attorneys have more than 75 years of combined experience and thoroughly understand the intricacies of Tennessee wills and probate law.