Child Custody Attorney in Cumming
Experienced Child Custody Lawyer Serving Families in Alpharetta, GA
When getting divorced, one of the most difficult areas to agree upon is child visitation and custody, which can bring up a number of financial and emotional issues.
With the help of the attorneys at Miles Hansford, LLC, in Cumming, you can determine the right custody agreement for your child while maintaining your rights as a parent.
Listed below are the different types of custody and the factors that will be considered when determining custody in divorce cases.
Types of Custody
Custody can refer to both legal and physical custody of a child. Physical custody refers to where a child lives, while legal custody refers to the right to make decisions about a child’s religion, education and other factors in his or her upbringing. Each type of custody may be shared or granted to a single parent, depending on a number of different factors.
Sole Custody
Sole physical custody means that a child will live full time with one parent, and this may occur with sole legal custody or shared legal custody. In situations where one parent has sole custody, visitation agreements may still be made to allow the noncustodial parent to maintain a relationship with his or her children. Child visitations may be supervised or unsupervised.
Joint Custody
When both parents are fit and capable, it is often best to continue shared custody. Joint schedules are generally determined by the child’s needs with consideration of each parent’s work schedules and housing arrangements.
To speak with our experienced Cumming child custody lawyers, give us a call at (770) 574-6688 or contact us online today.
Factors in Full Custody
If you are seeking sole custody in your divorce or separation, you will need to prove that the other parent is unfit due to a drug or alcohol dependency, history of domestic abuse or history of criminal activity. Even in cases where these factors are present, the noncustodial parent may still be granted supervised visits by the court.
In Georgia, child custody decisions are made with the best interests of the child as the primary consideration. The court aims to create a custody arrangement that ensures the child's well-being and maintains a healthy relationship with both parents whenever possible.
Factors Considered:
Several factors influence child custody determinations in Georgia. The court assesses
- each parent's ability to provide a stable home environment
- the child's emotional and developmental needs
- any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. Additionally
- the existing relationship between the child and each parent and their willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent
Understanding the Child Custody Process in GA
Navigating the child custody process can be overwhelming, especially during emotionally charged times. At Miles Hansford, LLC, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the steps involved can help you feel more in control and prepared for what lies ahead.
The child custody process typically involves the following stages:
- Initial Consultation: Meet with our experienced attorneys to discuss your situation, goals, and concerns.
- Filing for Custody: We will help you prepare and file the necessary legal documents to initiate the custody process.
- Mediation: Many cases benefit from mediation, where a neutral third party facilitates discussions to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
- Court Hearings: If an agreement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to court, where a judge will make the final determination based on the best interests of the child.
- Final Custody Order: Once a decision is made, a custody order will be issued, outlining the terms of custody and visitation.
Throughout each stage, our team will provide personalized guidance and support, ensuring you understand your rights and options. We are committed to advocating for your family's best interests and achieving a resolution that works for you and your child.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards securing a stable and loving environment for your child.
Mediation and Parenting Plans
Georgia encourages parents to reach agreements through mediation. If parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, the court may require them to submit a parenting plan, outlining how they will address the child's needs and allocate responsibilities.
Ultimately, the court's goal is to create a custody arrangement that promotes the child's best interests and provides a stable and supportive environment for their growth and development. Seeking legal advice and representation is crucial for parents navigating child custody proceedings in Georgia.
Custody Modifications
Because a child’s needs will change as he or she gets older, or a parent’s financial or personal circumstances may change, custody modifications can take place well after a divorce is finalized. Child support may also be subject to modifications, as the financial standing of one or both parents can change through time.
For help determining the best custody and visitation arrangements for your family, call Miles Hansford, LLC, at (770) 574-6688 to fill out our online form. Our Cumming child custody lawyer can help.
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