Non-traditional Family Services

Does Tennessee law recognize the rights of domestic partners, including gay and lesbian couples?

As a Middle Tennessee family lawyer and a former Davidson County General Sessions Judge, Penny Harrington has seen the legal community grow more aware of the needs of non-traditional families and domestic partnerships, including gay and lesbian couples. In many of the issues involved, judges have broad discretion to interpret the law; therefore it is important to work with an attorney with relevant experience.

Ms. Harrington has been commended by the Gay and Lesbian Rights Center for her legal and civic advocacy of under-represented individuals in Tennessee. Contact Harrington Law Office, her Nashville firm, to make arrangements for a consultation.

What legal protection is there for my non-traditional family?

A family law attorney can help same-sex partners or individuals in Tennessee with a package for living together that includes an estate plan, including a will, living will, health-care power-of-attorney, and durable power-of-attorney; and clear documentation of the ownership status of a home, allowing the surviving partner access in the event of one partner’s death or incapacity.

Gay and lesbian adoption, adoption by singles, child custody, visitation, and other issues involving children are considered by the court on a case-by-case basis. It is important to contact an attorney who provides legal services to non-traditional families as soon as you are considering any legal process that involves children.

Ms. Harrington represents clients involved in will contests, family disputes over guardianships and conservatorships, paternity testing, and elder law issues.

Attorney Penny Harrington helps couples protect their domestic partnerships with services including family law, estate planning, and probate. Throughout her career she has consistently advocated for the people of Tennessee. The firm serves clients from communities including Franklin, Hendersonville, Gallatin, Mount Juliet, Dickson, and others in Nashville – Davidson County. The office is conveniently located in the West End of Nashville, free parking is available, and the firm accepts credit cards for payment.