Child Custody Lawyers

Child Custody Lawyers

Understanding Georgia Custody Laws

In Georgia, the divorce courts prefer that parents place a priority on the welfare and care of their children. Divorcing parents should remember that their children did not ask for the divorce, and they will suffer more than anyone involved.

Parents who invest quality time, and cooperation with their ex-spouse, throughout their children's formative years produce children with better attitudes. These children are less likely to assume behavioral problems including trouble with peers or police.

Divorcing parents should take adequate time to read and learn how to support and help their children get through the misery of divorce.

Child Custody in Georgia

In Georgia, before a divorce can be granted by the court, the issue of child custody of all of the minor children of the marriage must be settled. Child custody issues are applicable to children produced in a formal marriage or in dissolving a common-law marriage. Divorces involving children will require both parents to complete a court approved parenting course.

In Georgia, the divorce court will consider the preferences of children over 11 years of age regarding their living arrangements. While the court must agree, children over 14 years of age can often choose their custodial parent and residence.

Physical Custody

Physical custody refers to the person(s) who is designated as the primary custodial person and with whom the child(ren) will reside. The person having physical custody has the most significant day-to-day responsibility for the care and rearing of the child(ren). Physical custody can be either sole or joint and is one of two critical considerations regarding child custody in Georgia.

Legal Custody

Legal custody refers to the person(s) who is designated as the person(s) who can make legal and binding decisions about the minor child(ren). Legal decisions about minor children include their education, their religion, health care options, and more. Legal custody can be either sole or joint and is one of two critical considerations regarding child custody in Georgia.

Visitation Rights

Visitation rights are a very important part of child custody issues. In many cases a set visitation schedule documenting visitation for every holiday will be decided. When spouses cannot agree to a visitation schedule the court will make the determination. The court has the authority to apply restrictions including supervised visitations, no overnight visitation and more. In certain cases, usually where there is a question of safety, the court may deny visitation rights to a parent.


If you feel a change on custody or visitation is in order you should speak with a lawyer. Get answers to your questions, learn about options, and explore how we can help you. Call 678-880-9360 or Contact Us Online to schedule a consultation with a lawyer.