Divorce Lawyer in Alpharetta, GA | Call for a Consultation

Deciding to end a marriage is a hard decision for many couples. There is much to consider, and to do it under emotional and financial stress can be overwhelming. Having legal representation can make the process easier to manage and address various issues, such as child custody, child support, and alimony.

An Alpharetta divorce lawyer from Speights Law can support you in this challenging time. For over 20 years, Georgia families have come to us to resolve challenging legal matters and help them move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Our Alpharetta family lawyer can handle your divorce case for you while you take care of other matters. Call us today for a private consultation.

Overview of How Divorce Works in Georgia

Understanding the basics of the divorce process can help you feel more prepared. Here’s an overview of how it works in Georgia.

Residency Requirement

To file for divorce in Georgia, at least one spouse must have been a resident of Georgia for at least six months before filing, per state law. If the spouse filing for divorce has not lived in Georgia for six months, but the other spouse has, the divorce can still proceed in Georgia.

Filing for Divorce

If one or both parties meet the residency requirement, they can begin the process by filing a Complaint for Divorce in the Superior Court of the county where the respondent (the other spouse) resides.

If the respondent does not live in Georgia, the complaint can be filed in the county where the petitioner (the filing spouse) lives.

Grounds for Divorce

Georgia recognizes fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. In a no-fault divorce, the filing spouse does not have to prove any wrongdoing by the other spouse. They only need to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”

Fault grounds can include adultery, desertion, cruelty, and more.

Temporary Orders

During the divorce process, the court may issue temporary orders to address immediate concerns such as child custody, child support, spousal support, and use of the family home. These orders remain in effect until the court issues the final divorce decree.

Finalizing the Divorce

If the parties reach a settlement, they will submit a written agreement to the court for approval. If the court finds the agreement fair and reasonable, it will issue a final divorce decree based on the agreement’s terms.

If the parties cannot settle, the case can go to trial. During the trial, both parties present their evidence and arguments, and the judge makes decisions on unresolved issues. Once the judge has made their rulings, they will issue a final divorce decree.

We can discuss your unique situation and circumstances in a confidential consultation. Call us today.

How Our Divorce Lawyers in Alpharetta Can Lead Your Case

At Speights Law, we believe the divorce process starts with stating your intentions. As your divorce lawyers, we are here to advise you and help with important tasks. These include:

Legal guidance: We will explain the divorce process and what to expect at each stage. This will help you understand your rights and options and hopefully make the journey less stressful.
Paperwork: Filing for divorce involves a lot of paperwork. We will complete and submit all documents on time, so you don’t have to worry about missing any important details.
Negotiations: Many parties settle their divorce out of court. We can negotiate fair agreements on your behalf, such issues such as child custody, child support, and property division. Our goal is to reach a settlement that meets your needs without unnecessary conflict.
Court representation: If your divorce case goes to trial, we can represent you in court. We will present your case clearly and effectively, fighting for your best interests.
Child custody and support: Child custody can be one of the most challenging parts of a divorce. We will help you understand who gets custody and why the court prioritizes the best interests of your child. We can also assist with calculating and negotiating child support payments and other tasks.
Property division: We will help you identify and value all marital assets and debts. Together, we will work to divide them fairly, keeping your financial future in mind.
Alimony: If you are entitled to alimony (spousal support) or must negotiate alimony payments, we will explain how alimony works in Georgia and advocate for a fair arrangement that reflects your financial situation and needs.

Our Team Is Here for You – Get Legal and Emotional Support

Divorce is not just a legal process; it’s also an emotional one. You can count on our Alpharetta divorce attorneys to support and guide you through this difficult time.

We will provide straightforward legal counsel and communication so that you can make informed decisions. By handling these tasks, we aim to make the divorce process as smooth as possible for you.

How Long does It Take to Finalize a Divorce in Alpharetta, GA?

The length of time it takes to finalize a divorce can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the case and whether the parties can reach an agreement.

In a simple, uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all issues, the process can take as little as 31 days from the date the respondent is served with the divorce papers.

In more complex or contested cases, the process can take several months to over a year. Our Alpharetta divorce law firm can review your situation and give you specifics based on your situation.

Call Us Today: Our Alpharetta Divorce Lawyer Can Help You

If you have decided that ending your marriage is the next step, we can help you proceed with a divorce. At Speights Law, we understand the seriousness of such a decision, so we will handle your case with respect and care for your needs.

Our experienced Alpharetta divorce lawyers will answer your questions, update you on your case regularly, and keep your case on track. Call our law office today for a private consultation. We offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate your schedule.

Amanda Speights