Redan Family Law Attorneys

Helping Families Through Times of Change in DeKalb County, GA

Few experiences in life are as emotional as those that impact our loved ones. When you’re facing a major change in your family, you need compassionate service that can give you the legal help that you need.

E.N. Banks-Ware Law Firm, LLC provides comprehensive family law services to Redan and the greater Atlanta region, giving you peace of mind through reliable representation. We work with you to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Call (470) 523-3135 or contact us online to discuss how E.N. Banks-Ware Law Firm, LLC can assist you in your family law case.

Our Redan Family Law Services

Our Redan family lawyers provide comprehensive representation for the following and other family law matters:

• Adoption, including blended family adoption
• Divorce 
• Property division
• Spousal support
• Child custody and visitation
• Child support
• Legitimation/paternity
• Restraining orders

Understanding Key Aspects of Family Law in Georgia 

Filling a Divorce 

Divorce in Georgia can be initiated through a few different methods, primarily based on the grounds for divorce. Georgia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. The no-fault option is based on the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, which means that the couple cannot reconcile. Fault grounds may include adultery, abandonment, and cruel treatment.

The divorce process in Georgia unfolds as follows:

• Filing the Petition: One spouse files a petition for divorce in the appropriate court, usually in the county where either spouse resides.
• Service of Process: The other spouse must be formally served with divorce papers, which provides them with notice of the legal action.
• Response: The served spouse has a limited time to respond to the petition. If they fail to respond, a default judgment may be entered.
• Negotiation: Many couples can negotiate the terms of their divorce amicably, often with the assistance of their attorneys. Issues like property division, child custody, and support can be settled through negotiation or mediation.
• Court Hearing: If the parties cannot reach an agreement, the case will proceed to court, where a judge will make determinations regarding the contested issues.
• Final Decree: Once all issues are resolved, the court will issue a final decree of divorce, legally ending the marriage.

Establishing Child Custody

Child custody decisions are often the most emotionally charged aspects of family law. Georgia courts emphasize the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements.

Custody can be categorized into two main types:

• Legal Custody: The right to make important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religion.
• Physical Custody: Where the child will live. This can be sole physical custody, where the child lives primarily with one parent, or joint physical custody, where the child spends substantial time with both parents.

Calculating Child Support

Child support in Georgia is calculated based on the state’s child support guidelines, which consider the parents' incomes, the number of children, and other relevant factors.

The goal is to ensure that children receive the financial support they need to maintain a similar standard of living to that which they had during the marriage. Our family law attorneys in Redan can help you achieve the most favorable outcome for your family law matter.

Spousal Support in Georgia

Spousal support, or alimony, can be awarded to one spouse to provide financial assistance during or after divorce proceedings. Georgia courts may award temporary or permanent alimony based on various factors, including:

• The duration of the marriage.
• The financial needs of the recipient spouse.
• The ability of the paying spouse to provide support.
• The standard of living established during the marriage.

It is essential for both parties to understand their rights and obligations regarding spousal support, as these can significantly impact financial stability post-divorce.

Modification and Enforcement of Orders

Life changes can necessitate modifications to existing custody or support arrangements. Common reasons for modification include:

• Changes in income for either parent.
• Changes in the needs of the child.
• Relocation of one parent.

To modify an existing order, a petition must be filed with the court, outlining the reasons for the requested change. The court will evaluate whether the modification serves the best interests of the child or addresses the changing circumstances.

Enforcement of child support or custody orders may also be necessary if one party fails to comply with the court's directives. Our Redan family law attorneys can support you in enforcing these orders, ensuring that both parties meet their obligations.

Trusted Legal Support Across Greater Atlanta

All families experience change. Some of these changes are good, and are eagerly looked forward to with joy and anticipation. Others may be disruptive, and cause conflict.

E.N. Banks-Ware Law Firm, LLC is here for you no matter the circumstances. We understand that these issues can weigh heavily on you, and that the decisions you make now will impact your family for years to come. We are honored to work with you in developing the legal strategy you need to address these needs.

Contact our firm to get in touch with a knowledgeable family lawyer in Redan. Call now - (470) 523-3135