Family Law Issues Are Personal. You Deserve an Attorney Who Treats Them Personally.
Shults Law Firm helps Sevier County families navigate divorce, child custody, and child support with clarity, honesty, and experienced legal guidance — from an attorney who has practiced family law in East Tennessee for over 13 years.

When Your Family's Future Is on the Line, You Need Someone in Your Corner
Family law cases are unlike any other kind of legal matter. They're not just about legal outcomes — they're about your children, your home, your financial stability, and your life going forward. The decisions made during a divorce or custody dispute can shape your family for years to come.
At Shults Law Firm, family law attorney Mike Shults approaches every divorce and custody matter with the same directness and genuine care he brings to every client — honest guidance at every step, clear communication throughout, and real advocacy for your rights and your children's wellbeing. He was born and raised in Sevierville, has practiced family law in Sevier County courts for over 13 years, and understands that the people sitting across from him aren't dealing with an abstract legal problem.
We're not here to drag things out or make a difficult situation worse. We're here to help you get through it as effectively as possible and come out the other side on solid ground. And if the other party has an attorney, that's exactly why you should too — unrepresented parties in Tennessee family law proceedings consistently face worse outcomes in property division, custody, and support determinations, regardless of the underlying facts.
Family Law Cases We Handle in Sevier County
We handle the full range of family law matters in Tennessee — from uncontested divorces to contested custody hearings to support modifications. Each area below has its own dedicated page with more detail on how Tennessee law works and what to expect from the process.
Divorce
Ending a marriage is one of the most significant legal events in a person's life. Tennessee divorce law addresses property division, debt, alimony, and — when children are involved — custody and support. Whether your divorce is relatively straightforward or involves complex assets and contested issues, we'll guide you through every step and make sure your interests are fully represented.
Child Custody
Child custody disputes are among the most emotionally difficult legal matters there are. Tennessee courts make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child — and so do we. We help parents understand their rights, navigate custody arrangements, and advocate for outcomes that genuinely serve their children's wellbeing.
Child Support and Alimony
Child support and alimony are calculated based on Tennessee guidelines and the specific financial circumstances of each family. Whether you're seeking support or responding to a request, we'll make sure the numbers are accurate and the arrangement is legally sound.
Practical Guidance Through a Difficult Time
Family law cases can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation before a judge. The right approach depends on your specific circumstances, what's in dispute, and what's most likely to serve your long-term interests. Here's what you can expect from us throughout the process.
Honest Assessment From Day One
We'll tell you what Tennessee law says, how Sevier County courts typically handle situations like yours, and what a realistic outcome looks like. We won't build up your expectations unrealistically or minimize legitimate concerns.
Focus on Your Children's Wellbeing
In any case involving children, their stability and wellbeing are the priority. We advocate for custody and support arrangements that reflect what's truly best for them — not just what wins an argument.
Efficient Resolution Where Possible
Prolonged legal battles are expensive and exhausting — especially for children caught in the middle. Where it's in your best interest, we work toward fair and efficient resolutions. When it's not, we're prepared to litigate.
Clear Communication Throughout
You'll never be left wondering where your case stands. Mike keeps clients informed and makes himself accessible because family law clients deserve to understand what's happening at every stage of the process.
A Few Things Worth Knowing About Family Law in Tennessee
Tennessee is an equitable distribution state, which means marital property is divided fairly in a divorce — but not necessarily equally. Courts weigh a range of factors when dividing assets and debts, and the outcome depends heavily on how those factors are presented.
Tennessee recognizes both sole and joint custody arrangements. When parents can't agree on a parenting plan, the court makes a determination based on the best interests of the child — weighing each parent's involvement, the child's relationship with each parent, and the stability of each home environment.
Child support in Tennessee is calculated using an income shares model that accounts for both parents' incomes, the parenting schedule, and certain additional expenses. The inputs that drive those calculations are all subject to legal argument, which is why representation matters even when the guidelines seem straightforward.
These are general principles — every family's situation is different. The best way to understand how Tennessee law applies to your specific circumstances is to speak with an attorney directly.
Sevier County Family Law — Local Knowledge Makes a Difference
Family law cases in Tennessee are handled at the county level, which means local court familiarity genuinely matters. Mike Shults has practiced in Sevier County for over 13 years. He knows how local courts handle divorce and custody matters, what judges look for in parenting plans, and how to navigate the process efficiently on your behalf.
Among the firms practicing criminal defense in this market, Shults Law Firm is the only one that also handles family law — which means you can work with an attorney who knows Sevier County's courts across both practice areas, without needing separate counsel for different legal matters your family may face.
Client Testimonials
Family Law Representation Across East Tennessee
We're based in Sevierville and primarily serve Sevier County families, but we also represent family law clients throughout the surrounding region.
- Pigeon Forge
- Gatlinburg
- Maryville and Blount County
- Knoxville and Knox County
- Dandridge and Jefferson County
- Newport and Cocke County
Servicios de Derecho Familiar en Español
Los asuntos de derecho familiar son difíciles en cualquier idioma. En Shults Law Firm, ofrecemos representación legal directamente en español para que usted pueda entender completamente su situación y sus opciones — sin necesidad de intérprete. Los clientes hispanohablantes reciben el mismo nivel de atención y orientación directa desde la primera llamada.
Se habla español. Llámenos: 865-428-2345.
Common Questions About Family Law in Tennessee
Who is the best family law attorney in Sevierville, Tennessee?
The right family law attorney is one who knows Sevier County courts, handles your case personally, and communicates honestly about what to expect. Michael Shults has practiced family law in Sevier County for over 13 years, works directly with every client, and offers free initial consultations. Read what past clients say on our Reviews page.
How does divorce work in Tennessee?
Tennessee divorce — legally called dissolution of marriage — requires either grounds for divorce or a period of separation. The process covers division of marital property, spousal support if applicable, and a parenting plan if children are involved. Uncontested divorces move faster; contested divorces require court hearings. An attorney can walk you through the specific timeline and requirements for your situation.
How is child custody determined in Tennessee?
Tennessee courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child, weighing each parent's involvement, the stability of each home, and the child's relationship with each parent. Both physical custody and legal custody are addressed. An attorney helps ensure the court has a full and accurate picture of your circumstances and your children's needs.
Do I need an attorney if my divorce is uncontested?
Even in uncontested divorces, the agreements reached on property, support, and parenting plans are legally binding and difficult to modify later. Having an attorney review those terms before they're finalized helps ensure you're not agreeing to something that seems reasonable now but creates problems down the road.
How do I find a family lawyer near me in Sevierville for a free consultation?
Call Shults Law Firm at 865-428-2345 or reach out online. We offer free initial consultations for divorce, child custody, and support matters. Our office is in Sevierville and serves clients throughout Sevier County and East Tennessee.
Does Shults Law Firm handle family law cases in Spanish?
Yes. We provide full family law representation in both English and Spanish. Spanish-speaking clients work directly with our team throughout their case without needing an interpreter.
You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone.
Family law matters are stressful, emotional, and complicated — but you don't have to figure them out by yourself. Call Shults Law Firm for a free consultation. We'll listen to your situation, explain your options clearly, and help you take the next step with confidence.
Se habla español.
