Atlanta Child Custody And Child Support Attorney
Last updated on September 9, 2024
Navigating child custody and child support issues can be one of the most challenging aspects of a divorce or separation. As an Atlanta child custody attorney, I understand how important it is to get these decisions right. My name is Sahara Bell, and I help parents in Atlanta ensure that their children have a safe and nurturing living environment when their parents are no longer living together.
How Child Custody Works In Georgia
In Georgia, child custody is divided into two categories: physical and legal custody. Physical custody determines where the child lives, while legal custody involves decision-making authority regarding the child’s upbringing, including education, health care and religious instruction.
Georgia adopted the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) in 2001. This law ensures that custody decisions are consistent and enforceable across state lines. For parents in Georgia, this means that your custody agreement will be recognized in other states, which is crucial if you or the other parent are considering moving.
Considerations For Atlanta Custody Agreements
When it comes to custody agreements, you can opt for joint or sole custody. Joint custody means both parents share physical and/or legal custody, while sole custody grants one parent exclusive rights. Joint custody often fosters a cooperative parenting environment but can also complicate child support calculations. In contrast, sole custody typically results in higher child support payments from the noncustodial parent.
Grandparents also have limited custody rights in Georgia. They can seek visitation or custody under certain circumstances, especially if it’s in the child’s best interests. Also, the children themselves have the right to have a say in which parent they want to live with if they are at least 14, although a judge can overrule this decision if it’s not in the child’s best interest. Whether you were married or not, as a parent, you have the right to seek custody or visitation and to be involved in your child’s life.
Can You Fight A Judge’s Decision For Child Custody In Georgia?
For your children’s sake, it is crucial to do your best to secure the right custody or support decision from the start. However, life can change in ways that make the original custody or support order impractical or impossible. Fortunately, modifications are possible. If circumstances change significantly, you can petition the court to modify the custody or support arrangement. This might include changes in employment, relocation or changes in the child’s needs.
What Do Judges Look At To Decide Custody In Georgia?
Judges consider various factors when deciding custody. Testimony from witnesses, including child psychologists who have studied the case, can be critical. Financial documents like bank statements and pay stubs, as well as restraining orders, play a role. Even social media posts can influence a judge’s decision, putting you or your co-parent in a favorable or unfavorable light. Ultimately, the judge focuses on the child’s best interests, considering their safety, emotional well-being and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment.
Contact Me Today
If you need help with a child custody or child support issue, I am here to assist you. Call Bell Law Group at (708) 512-5575 to schedule a case evaluation and take the first step toward resolving your family law matters.