When a child custody dispute arises, emotions can run high for both parents, making the child feel caught in the middle of a conflict they didn’t choose. When parents in these situations cannot come to an agreement on their own, they can seek help from our lawyers.
When they come to Speights Law, our Jasper contested child custody lawyer will advocate for their rights and work to find a solution that prioritizes the best interests of the child.
For over 20 years, our Jasper family lawyers have helped Georgia families work through challenging legal issues. If you are having a custody dispute, we can help. Call us today for a private consultation.
Understanding How Contested Child Custody Works in Georgia
Contested child custody cases arise when parents cannot agree on the terms of custody and visitation. These disagreements can involve various issues, such as:
- Primary physical custody: Determining with whom the child will primarily live.
- Legal custody: Deciding who has the authority to make important decisions about the child’s life, such as their education and health care.
- Visitation rights: Establishing a schedule for the non-custodial parent to spend time with the child.
Common Situations Leading to Child Custody Disagreements
Child custody disagreements can arise from various situations, including:
- Differences in parenting styles: Disagreements on discipline, education, or lifestyle choices.
- Relocation: One parent wants to move to a different city or state with the child.
- Visitation schedules: Conflicts over how much time the child spends with each parent.
- Work schedules: Conflicts due to demanding or irregular work hours of a parent.
- New relationships: Introducing new partners or step-siblings into the child’s life.
- Financial stability: Disputes over which parent can provide better financial support.
These and other situations can make reaching a custody agreement that works for everyone challenging. Our contested child custody arrangement lawyers in Jasper have handled various situations and can offer guidance on yours.
Factors Georgia Courts Consider in Custody Decisions
Georgia courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. They also consult state law when considering what benefits a child’s well-being. Some factors that the court may consider include:
- The child’s age, sex, and needs.
- Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s emotional, social, and educational needs.
- The child’s relationship with each parent.
- The stability of each parent’s home environment.
- Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.
- The child’s preference, if the court deems the child mature enough to express their choice.
O.C.G.A. § 19-8-18(e) lists other factors that courts consider in these cases. Our Jasper contested child custody agreement lawyers will explain what to expect. We will address the specifics of your situation and your next steps. Call us for a confidential consultation.
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770-479-1500How Our Jasper Contested Child Custody Dispute Lawyers Can Help You
Contested child custody cases can be complex and emotionally charged for everyone involved. With a knowledgeable lawyer from our firm on your side, you can protect your rights and ensure you handle your case properly.
Once we represent you, we will:
- Advocate for your parental rights inside and outside the courtroom.
- Explain Georgia’s contested child custody laws and how to modify a custody agreement in the state.
- Present evidence and arguments to support your case.
- Negotiate with the other parent or their attorney to reach a suitable agreement.
- Represent you in court, if necessary, and make sure your voice is heard.
- File an appeal if the court makes an unfavorable ruling in your case.
We Will Lead Your Contested Child Custody Case From Start to Finish
The family lawyers at Speights Law understand the emotional toll that a contested child custody case can take on a family. We will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child by:
- Listening to you to understand your concerns and what you want to achieve.
- Gathering and presenting evidence that supports your case (e.g., financial records, medical records, school records, character references, psychological evaluations and assessments, etc.)
- Developing a strategic plan for your situation.
- Communicating with you regularly about your case’s progress.
We will support and guide you from the start of your case until the end and answer your questions.
What Happens If Your Child Has a Custody Preference?
In Georgia, a child’s preference can significantly influence custody decisions, especially as the child gets older. Here’s how it works under Georgia law:
- Age 14 and older: Children aged 14 and older have the right to choose the parent with whom they wish to live. This preference is presumptive, meaning the court will usually honor it unless the chosen parent is deemed unfit or cannot provide for the child’s best interests.
- Ages 11 to 13: Children between the ages of 11 and 13 can express their custody preferences, but these preferences are not binding. The court will consider them as one of many factors in determining the child’s best interests.
Considerations for the Court to Make
When a child expresses a custody preference, the court will evaluate various factors to ensure the decision aligns with the child’s best interests, including:
- Parental fitness: The ability of the preferred parent to provide a stable, nurturing environment.
- Child’s welfare: The emotional, social, and educational needs of the child.
- Safety concerns: Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance abuse by either parent.
While a child’s preference is important, the court makes the final decision. A judge may talk with your child during a confidential interview to learn more about their preference. The important thing to remember is you must think about the overall best interests of the child.
Call for Help from Our Contested Child Custody Dispute Lawyers in Jasper, GA
If you are facing a contested child custody case, call Speights Law for help from a Jasper contested child custody lawyer. We can advise you on your legal matter, whether you want to alter the custody arrangement for your child or keep it in place.
Call us today for a confidential consultation. We offer flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate your schedule.