Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law

If you are considering divorce, need sound advice on a child custody matter or have another family law issue, you need a lawyer who can explain the law and how it applies to your specific situation. At Lise S. Kaplan, LLC, in Macon, Georgia, we strive to be a resource for our clients. The questions below are some of the most common questions our clients ask. This information is not intended to serve as legal advice, and for any family matter, it is important to speak directly to an attorney.

Do I Need A Lawyer If My Divorce Is Uncontested?

In an uncontested divorce, the spouses agree on every aspect of their divorce, including child custody and visitation, child support, property division and alimony, if any. In some cases, one spouse may not understand the full implications of the terms of the divorce. For this reason, we believe it is still in your best interest to work with a lawyer. We can review your documents and advise you as to whether you are making decisions that are best for you and your children.

How Much Will My Divorce Cost?

While some law firms charge flat fees in uncontested divorces, if there are any areas of dispute between the parties, it is impossible to predict the exact cost of a divorce. If the parties agree on most issues, the divorce will usually cost less than if the parties have disagreements about significant issues. Many other factors will impact the cost of a divorce. At our law firm, we pledge to be as efficient as possible while protecting your rights.

How Will Our Property Be Divided?

Georgia is an “equitable division” state, which means that courts must divide all marital property equitably, which does not necessarily mean equally. The courts are not required to divide assets on a 50-50 basis. Because courts have so much discretion, it is important to work with an attorney who thinks strategically about these matters.

Can I Change My Divorce Decree?

Under Georgia law, you may be able to modify child custody, visitation, child support and alimony if there has been a substantial change of circumstances. Common situations leading to modification include one person moving, one person earning substantially more or less money due to a job change or a job loss, changes in the needs of a child and the remarriage of the person receiving alimony. In addition, as children grow older, they will have a greater say in the time they spend with each parent, which may lead to a change in custody arrangements. Any changes to your custody arrangements must be in the child’s best interests.

I Am A Grandparent. Do I Have Any Rights To Seek Visitation Or Custody?

In Georgia, the courts may award visitation rights to grandparents in some cases. Grandparents cannot, however, seek visitation if the child’s parents are married and living together. In rare instances, the courts may award custody of a child to a grandparent. These cases are highly fact-specific and should be handled by an experienced lawyer.

How Do I Choose The Right Lawyer?

Your family law attorney should have the experience necessary to understand the law, as well as the dynamics and idiosyncrasies that can be involved in family law cases. Your attorney should also have the right temperament, meaning that he or she can be aggressive and conciliatory, depending on the situation and what is needed at the time. In addition, your family law attorney should be someone you feel comfortable working with on your case. Attorney Lise S. Kaplan has focused her practice on family law since 1991 and frequently receives referrals from former clients, as well as from attorneys in and around Georgia.

Schedule A Consultation Now

For more than 30 years, Lise S. Kaplan, LLC, in Macon, Georgia, has guided hundreds of clients throughout the region. Attorney Lise S. Kaplan understands family law and can help you with any related legal case. Call us at 478-207-5124 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.