Child Custody

Child Custody Lawyer Newnan GA

One of the biggest challenges involved with divorce is child custody. It can be difficult to find an arrangement of which both parents agree upon. Fortunately, a child custody lawyer in Newnan, GA can help you.

Here at the Law Offices of Jason G. Smith, we have a team of lawyers waiting for you. They have the experience it takes to handle child custody issues. Because they know how much is at stake, they treat each case with passion and determination.

Giving You the Answers You Need

Whether you are about to go through a divorce or you are already in the midst of one, you probably have questions about child custody. Our lawyers have answers for you.

When you work with us, our lawyers take the time to listen. They want to hear about your situation. Additionally, they want to listen to your questions and concerns. Who will get primary custody? How does a court decide visitation? Our lawyers want you to understand how custody cases work and what your possible outcome might be.

By understanding your case, you can go into your child custody case more confident. A child custody lawyer in Newnan, GA can give you the answers and peace of mind that you need.

Child Custody Legal Insights in Newnan

Child custody laws in Georgia are quite specific. It’s a specific niche in which some lawyers have limited experience.

Our law firm has extensive experience with child custody cases. Thanks to our years in the family courts, our lawyers know what it takes to get good outcomes. When you work with a child custody lawyer in Newnan, GA from our firm, you get a lawyer who can work towards a positive outcome.

What is in Your Child’s Best Interests?

In Georgia, child custody is all about the best interest of the child. But that leaves room for interpretation. Our lawyers work hard to use the law to your advantage.

It’s not easy for a judge to decide what type of arrangement is in a child’s best interest. After all, it’s very subjective. What one parent believes to be in the child’s best interest could be the opposite of what the other believes.

For that reason, Georgia courts evaluate several factors. Here are some of the details a judge might consider during a custody case:

  • The stability of a parent
  • A child’s age and wants
  • Criminal history of the parent
  • How well a parent can care for a child

If your custody case goes to court, it’s up to your lawyer to prove that the child would be better off in your care. Our team of lawyers can work towards accomplishing that.

Possible Outcomes

There are several possible outcomes for your custody case in Newnan. The outcome you get depends on your lawyer, your evidence, and your judge.

One outcome is joint custody. Typically, judges favor this decision. If you get joint custody of your child, you must work with the other parent to make major decisions. Medical decisions, educational decisions, and religious decisions are the responsibility of both parents. As the child grows, the parents need to discuss and agree upon all major decisions.

Another possibility is joint physical custody. If this occurs, your child will split the time they spend with you and the other parent. This is not a common occurrence in Georgia, but it can happen.

Sole legal custody is another option. In this arrangement, one parent makes all of the major decisions. Sole physical custody allows the child to live with only one parent.

Getting the Outcome You Want

There’s no way to guarantee that you will get the outcome you want. However, there are ways to improve your chances of a good outcome.

When you work with us at the Law Offices of Jason G. Smith, you get a family law lawyer in Coweta County who will fight for your family. The sooner you take legal action, the sooner you can move on with your life. Contact us today for a consultation to get started.

Understanding Visitation Rights in Newnan, GA

Living in Newnan, GA, you are likely familiar with the local community and its resources. When it comes to child custody and visitation, the Coweta County Courthouse is a key player in determining the best arrangements for your family. Navigating the complexities of visitation rights can be challenging, especially when emotions run high during a divorce or separation.

One common pain point for parents in Newnan is understanding how visitation schedules are decided. The local courts consider various factors, including the child's school schedule, the distance between parents' homes, and the child's extracurricular activities. Our team at the Law Offices of Jason G. Smith is well-versed in these local considerations and can help you create a visitation plan that works for everyone involved.

Another concern for many parents is ensuring that the visitation schedule is fair and in the best interest of the child. The Georgia Department of Human Services provides guidelines, but each case is unique. Our lawyers are familiar with these guidelines and can help you navigate them effectively.

We understand that every family in Newnan has its own set of challenges and needs. Whether you live near Ashley Park or closer to the historic downtown area, our lawyers are committed to providing personalized legal support. We know the local schools, community centers, and other resources that can play a role in your child's well-being.

Commonly Asked Questions

How can I ensure that my visitation schedule is fair and in my child's best interest?

The Georgia Department of Human Services provides a framework for visitation, but each case is unique. Our lawyers can help you assess your specific circumstances, advocate for your needs, and negotiate a visitation plan that reflects the best interests of your child while also being fair to both parents.

What should I do if my ex-partner is not adhering to the visitation agreement?

If your ex-partner is not following the visitation agreement, it's important to document each instance of non-compliance. Keep a record of missed visitations, dates, and any communication regarding the issue. You may need to consult with a lawyer to explore your options, which could include mediation or filing a motion with the court to enforce the visitation order.

Can visitation rights be modified after a court order is established?

Yes, visitation rights can be modified after a court order is established if there is a significant change in circumstances. This could include changes in the child's needs, the parents' living situations, or other relevant factors. To initiate a modification, you will need to file a petition with the court and demonstrate why the change is necessary.

What factors do courts consider when determining visitation rights?

In Georgia, courts take several factors into account when deciding visitation rights. These include the child's school schedule, the distance between the parents' homes, and the child's extracurricular activities. The goal is to create a visitation plan that minimizes disruption to the child's routine while ensuring they maintain a healthy relationship with both parents.