Crystal Wright | January 9, 2026 | Child Custody

How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost in Georgia?

If you have been considering trying to pursue child custody or put a formal custody arrangement in place, you might be wondering about the costs associated with this. While there is no easy answer to the question, “How much does a child custody lawyer cost in Georgia?” 

It is possible to get a better understanding of the potential attorney fees and costs associated with a custody action, so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

Different Fee Structures

First, it’s important to understand that different attorneys charge differently. Some standard ways that attorneys charge include the following:

  • Hourly rate: Many attorneys charge an hourly rate. They multiply the number of hours they work by this hourly rate to calculate the amount due for their services, then bill their client. For example, if an attorney charges $300 an hour and works ten hours on a case, they would charge $3,000 for their legal services.
  • Flat fee: Some attorneys charge the same amount for the same legal services, such as creating business or estate planning documents. 
  • Contingency fee: A contingency fee arrangement is one in which the payment for legal services is conditioned on a particular outcome. While these fee arrangements are common in personal injury cases, they are not permitted in domestic relations matters when the payment for services is contingent upon securing a divorce, alimony or support, or a property settlement in exchange for it.
  • On retainer: A lawyer may charge a retainer that serves as an initial deposit for legal services they will render. As they work, they bill against this amount. When the retainer runs out, they may switch to an hourly rate or request an additional deposit amount.

As you interview child custody lawyers you are considering hiring for your case, ask about which fee structure they use.

Factors That Influence Attorney Fees

Various factors can affect the cost that attorneys charge. Under the Georgia Rules of Professional Conduct, a lawyer shall not charge or collect an “unreasonable fee.” The factors that can be considered in determining whether an attorney’s fee is reasonable or not include:

  • The time and labor required for the case
  • The novelty and difficulty of the legal questions involved in the case
  • The skills necessary to perform the legal services properly
  • The amount involved and the results the lawyer obtained
  • The time limitations imposed by the client or by the circumstances
  • The likelihood that taking the case will prevent the lawyer from taking other cases
  • The lawyer’s experience, reputation, and abilities 
  • The customary fee that others in the area charge for similar services
  • Whether the fee is fixed or contingent

A significant factor that will affect the cost of a child custody case is whether the case is contested or uncontested. 

A contested case is one in which the parties do not agree on which of them should have custody or the custody arrangement. An uncontested case is one in which the parents agree on the custody arrangement.

In addition to attorney fees, which are the direct amount you pay for the lawyer’s services, you may also incur additional expenses, such as:

  • Guardian ad litem costs
  • Expert witness costs, including psychologists
  • Deposition costs
  • Discovery costs
  • Court filing fees

Attorneys also cannot charge “an unreasonable amount for expenses” under the state’s Rules of Professional Conduct.

Contact an Atlanta Family Lawyer Today for a Confidential Consultation

The cost of a child custody lawyer in Georgia can vary based on factors like the attorney’s experience, the complexity of the case, and whether the matter is contested. While there is no fixed price, understanding fee structures and potential costs can help you plan ahead and make informed decisions.

Crystal Wright Law, LLC uses transparent pricing, giving you a good idea of what to expect before your case is underway. If you have a child custody issue you need help with as part of a divorce, separation, or paternity action, contact us today for your initial case assessment.

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