Committed To Protecting Your Parenting Rights

When parents divorce, their main concern is their children’s well-being throughout the process and after. While both parents may want what is best for their children, they may have very different opinions on what the “best” custody arrangement is and how this is structured. It can be overwhelming to find solutions that work for your children and you.

Having a strong and knowledgeable attorney by your side can help when you do not know what to do. Our team can explain different custody arrangements and can put your concerns into perspective.  At Lise S. Kaplan, LLC, we draw on decades of family law experience when we represent our clients in custody and visitation disputes. Our attorneys never forgets what’s at stake when they take your case. You can rely on their support to advocate for what is best for your children throughout your custody matter.

If You Are Concerned About Custody And Visitation Arrangements, We Can Help

Lise S. Kaplan and her team are experienced in handling child custody matter and have helped many clients reach agreements or resolve custody disputes. Our law firm handles the full range of issues related to child custody and visitation, including:

• Developing a workable parenting plan that will create a sensible arrangement for each parent to spend time with their children, taking into account what is best for the children
• Modifying the terms of child custody agreements when necessary
• Establishing fathers’ rights and parenting time when parents are not married
• Reaching agreement on child support matters

While it is usually better to reach an agreement with your child’s other parent than to have a judge make a decision for you, at times, that is not possible.

Defending Your Rights In Court

When parents cannot agree upon custody and visitation arrangements on their own, then a judge will make these decisions for you.  A judge has a tremendous amount of discretion to determine what is in the best interest of the child.  In determining whether a child should live with primarily with the mother, primarily with the father or with both parents, the judge will consider the historical relationship each parent has had with a child as well as many other factors, some of which are as follows:

• Is one home or the other more “stable” and how is this defined for your particular circumstances?
• Who is best able to help with school, homework and after-school activities, and who has done so in the past?
• Does one parent have more flexibility in his or her schedule if, for example, a child is involved with activities after school, needs to be picked up at school when ill or for a doctor’s appointment?
• Has one parent’s behavior resulted in the child having difficulties in school or behavioral problems?

The question of stability is important when determining custody as is the bond that a child has with each parent. A judge considers many factors in determining custody, and each judge is different. This is where an experienced attorney who has handled custody cases in middle Georgia for over 30 years can be a real asset to your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Child Custody

As Macon family law attorneys, we often receive questions concerning child-related divorce issues like custody. Below are some of the most frequent questions we receive and their answers, offering some much-needed clarity about common child custody concerns in Georgia.

What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

Legal custody grants a parent the right to make major decisions for the child, including education and health care. Physical custody determines where the child resides. Both types of custody may be shared by parents or assigned to one.

What is the difference between primary and sole custody?

Primary custody refers to the parent who has possession of the child for the majority of the time. By contrast, sole custody means that only one parent has all custodial rights, including physical and legal custody, without the other’s involvement.

Does joint custody always imply a 50/50 split?

Under Georgia state law, joint custody does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split. The division of time between parents can vary and is determined based on the child’s best interests and parental circumstances.

Can a parent with shared custody move in Georgia?

In Georgia, a parent with shared or joint custody must notify the other parent 30 days before relocating with a child. If the move significantly alters the child’s routine or affects visitation rights, it may prompt a custody order review.

How do Georgia courts determine primary custody?

Family judges consider several factors to determine a child custody arrangement that preserves the best interests of children of divorce. Demonstrating your ability to ensure stability and a nurturing environment for your children can improve your side of your custody case.

When should I contact a Macon child custody lawyer?

If you are facing divorce or your existing custody orders fail to meet your child’s needs, contact a child custody attorney. If you fear for your children when they spend time with your co-parent, contact a custody lawyer.

With supportive legal guidance, you have great odds of resolving your Georgia child custody matter with the least possible impact on your children.

You Do Not Have To Struggle With Custody Issues Alone

Reach an experienced attorney who cares. Call 478-207-5124 or email us to get started.