Crystal Wright | December 29, 2025 | Child Custody Lawyer in Georgia
No, you are not required to have a lawyer to help with child custody. However, having a child custody lawyer on your side to help with filing petitions and court hearings can help you achieve a favorable outcome. If the other party involved has a lawyer, it is even more crucial to have a lawyer helping you as well.
Keep reading below to learn more about the child custody process in Atlanta and how having a lawyer can help you.
How an Atlanta Child Custody Lawyer Can Help You
When custody of your child is at stake, you want to take advantage of every possible resource available. This includes getting an Atlanta child custody lawyer to help you with every detail of the custody process.
An experienced lawyer can help you by:
- Answering all your questions about the custody process
- Giving you sound legal advice about your parental rights and legal options
- Gathering evidence to help you get custody of your child
- Negotiating a favorable child custody agreement
- Representing you at all court hearings throughout the process
- Assisting with the modification of custody arrangements when circumstances change
The custody process can be highly emotional, and having a lawyer on your side to help you navigate the legal complexities involved can be crucial. Though not a legal requirement, it is almost always in your best interest to have a lawyer to help you with child custody.
Overview of Child Custody in Georgia
After a divorce, a formal court order will be issued that resolves all custody-related issues.
This includes things like:
- Determining the child’s primary residence
- Where the child will spend weekends and holidays
- Summer visitation schedules
- How much time the child will spend with each parent
- Who will make important decisions about the child’s life
The courts in Georgia always look at the child’s best interest when making custody decisions. Courts assume that having a relationship with both parents is best for the child. However, this assumption can be refuted by showing evidence that one parent is unfit.
Keep in mind that legal custody and physical custody are two separate items. Legal custody deals with the authority of each parent to make important decisions about the child’s life, while physical custody deals with where the child will spend most of their time.
What Factors Does the Court Consider When Making a Custody Decision?
The court may consider several factors when making a custody decision.
Georgia courts understand that every custody situation is unique, and some of the factors that may be considered include:
- Each parent’s ability to provide the child with love, affection, and guidance
- The mental and physical health of each parent
- Each parent’s knowledge of the child’s needs
- The ability and willingness of each parent to provide for the child’s needs
- Each parent’s work schedule
- Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent
- Any history of drug or alcohol abuse
- Any history of child abuse or domestic violence
Children who are 14 and older may choose which parent they wish to live with. In most cases, the judge will honor the child’s preference. However, if their choice is not in their best interest, the judge may order other arrangements.
Improving Your Odds of Success With Your Georgia Child Custody Case
One of the best things you can do to improve your odds of success is to hire an experienced lawyer. Your lawyer should have a deep understanding of Georgia family law, and they can help you increase your chances of success on your custody claim.
Some other things you can do are:
- Follow all the court’s instructions and orders
- Be present and on time for all court hearings
- Continue to be supportive of your child during custody proceedings
- Show the judge that you are willing to compromise to continue a relationship with your child
- Avoid discussing custody issues in front of your child or on social media
If you choose to hire a lawyer, you should always be open and honest with your lawyer. They need all the facts in your case to help put together the best strategy to get you a favorable outcome. Hiding information from your lawyer will hinder them from being able to successfully advocate on your behalf.
Contact the Atlanta Child Custody Lawyer at Crystal Wright Law, LLC for Help Today
If you’re facing a child custody dispute in Atlanta, GA, Crystal Wright Law, LLC is here for you. Our Atlanta child custody attorney will work tirelessly to protect your rights and find a solution that is best for your family. To learn more and get the help you deserve, contact our legal team at Crystal Wright Law and schedule your consultation today.
We have offices in Atlanta and Lawrenceville, Georgia.
Crystal Wright Law – Atlanta Office
1718-1720 Peachtree St NW, Suite 920, Atlanta, GA 30309
(404)-594-2143
24/7
Crystal Wright Law – Lawrenceville Office
440 S. Perry Street, Suite 105, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
(404)-649-5554
24/7
