Unlike some other states, Georgia has a distinct two-step process fathers must use to secure legal rights to their child if they were not married to the child’s mother. The two steps are paternity and legitimation. The first step is to establish paternity Establishing...
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Child Custody
What must be in addressed in a Georgia parenting plan?
When a Georgia couple ends parts ways, child custody is one of the most difficult aspects of the situation. Even when the decision as to which parent will have custody has been made, parenting time can also be a challenge. According to state law, parents can write...
The child’s preference in Georgia custody matters
Like most states, Georgia courts make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child and examine several factors when making their decision. However, Georgia custody law differs from other states in one important respect. In other states, the child’s...
5 things to do before a child custody hearing
A child's well-being is paramount for parents, even during life's most challenging moments. Navigating parental responsibilities during break-ups can be extremely hard, especially when you struggle to get along with the other parent of your minor child. Whether...
How do irreconcilable differences interfere with child custody?
When you and your spouse file for divorce due to irreconcilable differences, it implies that your perspectives, priorities and ideals are so different that it led to the irretrievable breakdown of your marriage. Since the marriage is unsalvageable due to these...
What are the penalties for custody interference in Georgia?
Child custody can be a complex subject, requiring intervention in court. Usually, a judge imposes the custody and visitation arrangement through an order, a legally enforceable document. A deliberate violation of this order can be a custody interference offense with...
Can I change a Georgia child custody order?
You survived the divorce. Congratulations! Now, you are surviving co-parenting. Congratulations! But, you may wonder whether you can modify your Georgia child custody order, if circumstances have changed, or if you are not satisfied with the current arrangement. Well,...
What is parental kidnapping?
As shocking as it may be, many parents find themselves guilty of “kidnapping” their own children. Child custody battles can become tense and heated. Instead of dealing with the situation, some choose to hide or flee with their child to punish or manipulate the other...
What factors could affect child custody decisions in court?
Child custody is an essential part of divorce proceedings. It is also a common topic that leads to disputes, especially when the divorcing couple has conflicting opinions about their child's welfare. Fortunately, the court could help decide according to the child's...
How does having a special needs child impact a custody battle?
Emotions run high for every child custody dispute. Stakes are even higher if a child with special needs is involved in the middle of two conflicting parental forces. Almost all states, including Georgia, carry out the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement...