Family Law
Common Law Marriage in Georgia
Crystal Wright | April 25, 2025 | Family Law
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?
Crystal Wright | April 3, 2025 | Family Law
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?
Crystal Wright | March 21, 2025 | Family Law
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
Crystal Wright | March 7, 2025 | Family Law
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?
Crystal Wright | February 13, 2025 | Family Law
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
Crystal Wright | January 31, 2025 | Family Law
“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
Crystal Wright | December 19, 2024 | Family Law
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?
Crystal Wright | November 8, 2024 | Family Law
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?
Crystal Wright | October 18, 2024 | Family Law
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?
Crystal Wright | October 9, 2024 | Family Law
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