The vibrant LGBTQI+ community in Georgia has celebrated monumental victories in recent years, from the landmark legalization of same-sex marriages, to hard-fought recognition of parental rights for LGBTQ+ parents. These milestones mark a transformative era of empowerment and equality. However, amidst this progress, divorcing LGBTQ+ couples face a distinctive set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the complex challenges of child custody. Parental Rights of LGBTQI+ Parents in Georgia Based on marriage laws, LGBTQI+ parents in Georgia have the same rights and responsibilities as heteros ..read more

Becoming a parent to a stepchild can be one of the most rewarding and important roles that you take on in your life. It’s a journey that unfolds differently for everyone, particularly when it comes to the legal aspects of adoption in Georgia. Adopting a stepchild aligns your legal relationship with the emotional bond you’ve already developed, granting you certain rights and responsibilities that are critical in parenting. This legal step also solidifies the child’s sense of stability and belonging, reinforcing the family bond. What rights do step-parents have in Georgia? In Georgia, unless the ..read more

Parental alienation can have profound and enduring effects on families going through divorce or separation. It’s crucial for families in Georgia to grasp the complexities of parental alienation to protect the emotional health of children caught in the midst of these challenging circumstances. By recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate support, families can work towards addressing parental alienation and promoting healthier relationships for the well-being of all involved. What is Parental Alienation? Parental alienation occurs when one parent manipulates a child to unjustly resent or sho ..read more

When you’re going through a divorce, it can feel like your whole world is about to flip upside down. With  so many things uncertain, and tough times ahead, clarity emerges – things are about to get very difficult. Divorce can be one of the most challenging times in a person’s life. It’s not just about the legal process, but also about untangling shared finances and assets. For such a complicated and grueling task, you’ll need an entire team of professionals. What is a Forensic Accountant? A forensic accountant is a financial expert who investigates financial records to uncover, among othe ..read more

When considering a divorce in Georgia, a common question asked is : Does it matter who files first? The answer can influence how the divorce process unfolds, impacting everything from child custody to the division of marital assets. Who Usually Files for Divorce? Statistically, women are more likely to file for divorce in the United States. This trend might be due to various reasons, including financial preparedness or the desire to initiate the divorce process on their own terms. There’s even some evidence pointing to what’s known as ‘divorce clustering.’ This is an alleged phenomenon where i ..read more

Legitimation Hearing & Best Interests In the State of Georgia, if a child is born out of wedlock, the biological father must go through the legitimation process to have legal rights to the child. A legitimation hearing is a critical process in Georgia, especially when the child’s mother contests the father’s Petition. While biological fathers have the right to seek legitimation, it’s not guaranteed that the court will approve their request. The deciding factor is the child’s best interest. If the court deems the father unfit or concludes that legitimation isn’t in the child’s best interest ..read more

Divorce is a deeply personal and often complex decision, filled with a mix of emotions and considerations. If you’re feeling uncertain about whether to file for divorce, it’s important to approach the decision with care and introspection. Here are three critical aspects to ponder. What Will Make You Happy? Happiness can seem like a distant dream when you’re stuck in a marriage that feels more draining than fulfilling. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day struggles and forget to ask yourself, “What do I need to be happy?” Consider your own mental and emotional well-being.  Are you ..read more

What to look for when dating after divorce Divorce is a significant life change that often brings a mix of emotions; from relief and joy to uncertainty and anxiety. One of the things people frequently consider after deciding to get divorced is dating again. While the prospect of re-entering the dating scene can be exciting, there are essential considerations to ensure a smooth transition from marriage to dating. Let’s discuss dating during and after divorce, with an eye on helping you make the most of your dating life while respecting the process and the people involved. Prioritize Your Childr ..read more

Going through a contested divorce can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. When spouses are in disagreement over various issues, the process becomes even more difficult. One crucial aspect of resolving contested divorces in Georgia is the discovery process. Let’s explore what discovery is and why it plays a vital role in the legal process of divorce. Understanding the Divorce Discovery Process What is Discovery? Discovery is a legal process where each party gathers evidence and information from the other. In a contested divorce, spouses often have conflicting views on matters like a ..read more

Have you ever wondered if being with your partner for years, sharing a home, and intertwining your lives means you’re in a common-law marriage? Surprisingly, the answer might not be as straightforward as it seems.  Like many other states, Georgia’s view on common-law marriages has evolved over the years. Let’s unravel the intricacies of common-law marriage in Georgia and understand what it means for couples who’ve built a life together. The Evolution of Common-Law Marriages: A Brief History Common-law marriages trace their roots back to medieval Europe, where formal ceremonies were not al ..read more