As a family law paralegal and legal template specialist with over 12 years of experience drafting custody documents in Tennessee, I’ve helped hundreds of parents navigate the complex world of parenting plans. One of the most frequent requests I receive is for a reliable, up-to-date Tennessee parenting plan form that complies with current state law. In this comprehensive guide, I’m providing you with a free downloadable Tennessee parenting plan PDF template, along with step-by-step instructions on how to complete it properly.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the attached template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Family law is highly fact-specific. Always consult a licensed Tennessee attorney or legal aid organization before filing any documents with the court.
Click Here to Download Your Free Tennessee Parenting Plan Template (PDF)
Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-6-404, every final decree in a divorce or custody case involving minor children must include a permanent parenting plan. Even if you and the other parent agree on everything, the court will not approve your case without this document. The parenting plan replaces older terms like “visitation” and instead creates a detailed roadmap for how parents will share responsibilities after separation.
The Tennessee Courts and the Department of Children’s Services emphasize that a well-drafted parenting plan reduces future conflict and protects the child’s best interests. According to the Administrative Office of the Courts, over 90% of custody disputes that return to court stem from vague or incomplete plans.
My updated 2025 Tennessee parenting plan template follows the exact structure required by Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-6-404 and the model form published by the Tennessee courts. It contains all mandatory sections:
| Section | Required Content |
|---|---|
| Day-to-Day Schedule | Residential schedule for school year, summer, holidays |
| Decision-Making | Major decisions: education, non-emergency healthcare, religion, extracurricular |
| Financial Support | Child support worksheet reference, insurance, uncovered expenses |
| Transportation & Exchange | Who drives, location, safety provisions |
| Communication | Phone/video access, parent-child and parent-parent communication rules |
| Relocation | Notice requirements under Tennessee’s relocation statute |
| Dispute Resolution | Mediation requirement before returning to court |
At the top, list Mother’s full legal name, Father’s full legal name, and every child’s name and date of birth.
Tennessee recognizes several common schedules:
The official form includes a chart for:
You may choose joint decision-making (recommended when possible) or designate one parent for specific areas. Tennessee courts favor joint decision-making unless there is evidence of abuse or significant conflict.
Reference the attached Tennessee Child Support Worksheet (available at tn.gov). Include who carries health insurance and how uninsured medical expenses are divided (usually pro-rata).
If your current permanent parenting plan no longer works due to a material change in circumstances (relocation over 50 miles, job schedule change, child’s needs, etc.), you must file a Petition to Modify Parenting Plan along with a proposed new plan.
Common triggers courts accept (see T.C.A. § 36-6-101(a)(2)(C)):
During a pending divorce or custody case, either parent (or the judge) can request a Tennessee temporary parenting plan. This interim order governs until the final hearing. My template includes a checkbox at the top to designate it as “Temporary” or “Permanent.”
In my 12+ years reviewing filings:
Do we have to use the official state form?
No, but it must contain every element required by statute. My template mirrors the state model exactly.
Can I file the parenting plan without a lawyer?
Yes, Tennessee courts accept pro se filings. However, I always recommend at least a consultation.
Is a 50/50 schedule automatic?
No. The court still applies the “best interest” factors under T.C.A. § 36-6-106.
What if we agree on everything?
You can submit an Agreed Permanent Parenting Plan signed by both parents – judges almost always approve reasonable agreements.
Creating a clear, detailed permanent parenting plan is one of the most important things you will ever do for your children. A good plan minimizes conflict, reduces court involvement, and gives your kids stability during a difficult transition.
Download my free Tennessee parenting plan PDF today, customize it to your family’s needs, and consider having it reviewed by a local attorney before filing.
Download Free Tennessee Parenting Plan Template (2025 Version)
Again, this is not legal advice. Laws and forms can change. Always verify with your local court clerk or consult a licensed Tennessee family law attorney.
Sources:
Tennessee Code Annotated Title 36-6
Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts – Parenting Plan Forms
Tennessee Department of Human Services Child Support Guidelines