Family Law Attorneys Focused On Child Custody And Support Solutions

From our office in Macon, Prine Law Group serves the family law needs of clients throughout Georgia. We know that child custody and child support are often contentious and stressful. Without conscientious guidance, these issues can become acrimonious and harmful for parents and children alike.

When you work with our firm, our attorneys take the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and seek solutions that protect you and your children. We will be here for you throughout the duration of your family law case and beyond.

The Basics Of Child Custody In Georgia

This topic is too complex to cover in a single page, so we are providing a basic overview of how custody works in Georgia. The first thing to know is that there are two types of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody is a parent’s authority to make important decisions on behalf of their child, related to things like religion, education and health care. Physical custody is the amount of time that the child is in each parent’s care. In many cases, courts award both physical and legal custody to both parents, though not always in equal measure.

When possible, the best way to create a custody agreement is through mutual negotiation between the two parents and their respective attorneys. This is typically faster and easier than going to court, and it gives both parents more control over the outcome. In cases where an agreement cannot be reached or negotiation isn’t even possible, it will be up to a judge to decide custody, often with input from other court professionals.

Judges must make custody decisions in the best interest of the child or children, and they are guided by a list of about 17 factors, including each parent’s bond and familiarity with the child, the home environment, each parent’s health and other capacities, and any history of criminality or substance abuse.

Our attorneys will work tirelessly to help you protect your children and your relationship with them. We understand that this is likely to be the single most important issue in your family law case.

Determining Child Support

Both parents have legal obligation to financially support their children, regardless of whether they are divorced or were never married. In many cases, our attorneys assist in child support matters as part of a divorce, but not always.

Georgia’s child support awards are calculated based on a complex formula that considers factors such as each parent’s income, allotment of custody, child-related expenses such as health insurance and child care, and more. Judges can deviate from the formulaic calculation when it makes sense to do so. Our attorneys will help you present the court with accurate financial information and raise any considerations that may not be reflected in the financial calculations.

Modifying Existing Support And Custody Orders

As time passes, the needs of children change, as do the financial circumstances of both parents. If there has been a significant change in parental income or the needs or living circumstances of children such that the current orders no longer meet the best interests of your kids, our attorneys can help you petition the court to modify an existing custody or child support order. Conversely, we can also ask the court to deny a modification, depending on your position.

Let Us Answer Your Questions And Explain Your Options

Child custody and child support can be confusing and stressful topics, which is why it is so helpful to consult a knowledgeable attorney like ours at Prine Law Group. To schedule your initial consultation, contact us online or call our offices in Macon, Georgia, at 478-201-9755.