Legal disputes involving your family can be extremely stressful in any type of case. Family law is broad and covers an array of issues and processes that are easier to handle with the help of an attorney.
Whether you have questions about separation or divorce, spousal support or alimony, child custody, and even how to handle domestic violence situations, a Crabapple family lawyer has the answers.
Getting Divorced with the Help of a Family Law Attorney
State law provides a variety of options for spouses looking to divorce in Crabapple. For instance, divorces can be “at-fault” or “no-fault.” Additionally, spouses may be able to file uncontested divorces if they agree on all issues, including property, alimony, and child custody and support. Alternatively, if a contested divorce is filed, a judge may ultimately make the decision on unresolved issues.
There are some legal requirements to file for divorce in Crabapple, as well. Individuals must meet residency requirements set by Official Code of Georgia Annotated §19-5-2. In addition, the spouse seeking a divorce must serve their spouse with court documents per O. C. G. A. §19-5-5.
Family Law Cases Involving Children
Family law covers legal issues concerning children, including custody and support, as well as emancipation and adoption. One of our steadfast attorneys can assist families with any of these matters and ensure that a creative solution is found.
Determining Custody
Custodial rights over a child are usually divided into physical and legal custody. The parent with whom the child will live is awarded physical custody, while legal custody goes to the parent who is deemed best fit to make major decisions on the child’s behalf, such as schooling, religious upbringing, medical issues, etc. Parents can split legal and physical custody, sharing what is known as “joint custody” under O. C. G. A. §19-9-3(a)(5).
A child custody agreement drafted by a knowledgeable family lawyer in our area would include provisions for physical and legal custody, as well as visitation schedules. When constructing a viable visitation schedule to present in a family court, a Crabapple attorney will consider the circumstances of the family and children and account for parenting time on holidays, school breaks, birthdays, and other major events. While children over the age of 14 have some say in their custody arrangement, a judge will ultimately determine a plan that suits their best interests.
Family Law Attorneys Helping Parents Obtain Child Support
Guidelines for child support fall under O. C. G. A. §§19-6-15-18. Crabapple courts typically follow an “Income Shares” model when determining child support obligations in a family law case. This model takes into account the incomes of both parents and certain deductions to calculate the amount of support one parent must provide to the other to cover child-care costs.
Let a Crabapple Family Law Attorney Help in Your Case
Regardless of the type of family law case you have found yourself in, it may be in your best interests to contact a Crabapple family lawyer as soon as possible. Let one of our team members advocate for your best interests and navigate you through the state and local laws that apply in your situation. Reach out to our firm today.
