Emergency Family-Law Resources in Tennessee

Temporary orders involving children

Tennessee does not promise same-day rulings on any private interim filing. Ex parte orders are limited. Use the appropriate Circuit / Chancery / Juvenile Court interim procedure and county forms, and confirm the receiving court's local intake and deadlines.

A parent can request interim custody / residential parenting time through the court's procedure. For an immediate threat, an Order of Protection petition is a separate, faster route.

Orders of Protection (T.C.A. § 36-3-601)

A Tennessee Order of Protection (OP) is issued under T.C.A. § 36-3-601. There is no filing fee. A court may issue an ex parte order within 24–48 hours if sufficient cause is shown; a full hearing must be held within 15 days of service. If proven, the order may extend for up to 1 year (renewable). Obey every term; only the court can change it.

Tennessee child protective (DCS)

Reports of suspected abuse or neglect go to Tennessee DCS at 877-237-0004 (24/7) or 911 for immediate. A report can lead to a CPS investigation; an unfounded report does not prove it was knowingly false and does not by itself end custody or parenting time.