Family Law

Common Law Marriage in Georgia

Common law marriage is often misunderstood. People frequently confuse it with other kinds of domestic partnerships. Some people think that living together for years means they are legally married. But that isn’t true in all states.  Georgia is one of the states where common law marriage is not recognized, but that doesn’t mean people in… read more

Should You File Taxes Jointly or Separately During Divorce?

Filing taxes can be a complicated process without adding separation or divorce to the situation. However, many couples face this situation each year. The decision to file jointly or separately while going through a divorce could significantly impact your finances. Working closely with your divorce lawyer and your tax preparer can help you make a… read more

Can I Go to Jail for Not Paying Child Support?

Failing to pay child support can have serious consequences, including jail time. Courts take child support obligations seriously, and non-payment can lead to legal penalties ranging from wage garnishment to incarceration. Understanding the potential consequences and legal options is essential for anyone struggling to keep up with payments.  Many people do not consider the legal… read more

The Pros and Cons of Shared Child Custody: What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision

When parents separate or divorce, one of the most critical decisions they face is how to handle the custody of their children. Shared child custody is an option that many consider, but it’s not always an easy decision. Understanding the pros and cons of shared custody can help you make the best choice for your… read more

Does It Matter Who Files for Divorce First?

Filing for divorce first should not inherently provide one spouse with an unfair advantage. However, in contentious cases, the first to file—particularly if the other spouse is unprepared—may gain strategic benefits. This dynamic can create a “race to the courthouse,” where spouses seek legal leverage, even when divorce is not mutually desired. While the law… read more

50-50 Custody in Georgia

“50-50 custody” is a form of joint physical child custody where the child spends an equal amount of time with each parent. A child might spend two days with parent 1, two days with parent 2, and three days per week with either parent on alternate weeks, for example. Until recently, Georgia courts disfavored joint… read more

Protective Orders in Lawrenceville

In Lawrenceville, as well as throughout the state of Georgia, what certain other jurisdictions refer to as a “restraining order” or a “civil restraint order” is officially known as a protective order. Georgia issues different types of protective orders.   Types of Protective Orders Georgia offers three types of protective orders—the family violence protective order, the… read more

How Is Alimony Calculated in Georgia?

Alimony is payment from one spouse to another and can be temporary or permanent. Alimony is not required to be paid in all Georgia divorces. One spouse must request it and show they need this financial support, and the other party must be able to provide it. Courts consider evidence of each party’s conduct toward… read more

 How Long Will My Family Law Case Take in Georgia?

If you’re involved in a family law matter in Georgia, you may be wondering how long the process will take. Whether it’s a divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption, understanding the timeline can help you manage expectations and plan accordingly.  The duration of a family law case can vary depending on several factors, but this… read more

What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Lawrenceville? 

Lawrenceville, Georgia, is a city in Gwinnett County, about 30 miles from downtown Atlanta. It offers a great escape to many families looking for a suburban community while staying close to Atlanta. Lawrenceville has several different historical attractions, including the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. The city has about 30,500 residences. Many residents live there because of… read more