Legal Question in Family Law in Tennessee

Losing custody because of religious beliefs

My ex and I have about 30 days til our *no-fault* divorce is final. I recieved full custody however it has come to my attention that he may be getting ready to fight me for custody because i am pagan (a witch). i would like to know what legal action i can take and if he will be able to take my child from me because of this. I am afraid he will go thru with it and i would like to be prepared to fight. Witchcraft is a recognized religion. Does it fall under any protection laws or freedom of religion laws? What are my rights?


Asked on 4/06/99, 9:41 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jes Beard Jes Beard, Attorney at Law

Re: Losing custody because of religious beliefs

Under TN law he must prove a change of circumstances which is harmful to the children before he can get an order changing custody.

This means you need to create a record showing that he was aware of your religion at the time of the divorce... you also should avoid exposing the children to your beliefs or raising them in it if you want to deny him any opportunity to have a basis fro changing custody.

Jes Beard

Jes Beard, Attorney at Law

737 Market St., Suite 601


Read more
Answered on 4/22/99, 8:17 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Tennessee