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Child custody laws in Augusta, as it is in the rest of Georgia, are governed by state laws. They are designed with the overarching principle of advancing the child's best interest. Key elements considered include the parental ability, the emotional ties between parent and child, the age and health of all parties, the stability of home environment, school and community record of child, and the child’s wishes if they are of sufficient age and capacity.
Whether you're getting divorced, never married, or trying to modify an existing custody arrangement, an experienced attorney can be a vital aid. A child custody lawyer can help you negotiate custody, either by agreement or in court. They can help protect your rights, deal with the legal paperwork, and ensure any representation of your case takes your interests, and crucially your child's best interest, into account.
Georgia's laws aim to ensure that both parents have the opportunity to spend quality time with their children. Two types of custody are recognized: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody involves the right to make decisions about the child's wellbeing, education, health care, religion, etc. Physical custody means the child lives primarily with one parent. Joint custody arrangements can also be worked out but must be approved by the court as fair and reasonable.
Custody is primarily decided based on the child's best interest. The court takes into account each parent's relationship with the child, the physical and mental health of all parties, and the child's age and preference, among other factors.
Sole custody means one parent has exclusive physical and legal custody rights concerning the child. It is granted in cases where one parent is deemed unfit or if it would be in the child's best interest.
Yes, custody agreements can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances that would impact the child's best interest. An attorney can guide you through this process.
No, Georgia law does not give a preference to either mother or father. The court considers factors that serve the child’s best interest, making decisions on that basis.
It's not mandatory, but it is advised to hire a lawyer, especially in contested custody cases, as they can navigate the complex legal process and ensure your interests are adequately represented.
The Augusta Family Law Center and local Child Protection Services can provide helpful resources. Online resources include Georgia’s Judicial System website, Georgia's Department of Family and Child Services, and Legal Aid in Georgia, which provides free legal help to those who qualify.
If you need legal assistance in child custody, start by researching and identifying experienced family law attorneys in Augusta. Arrange consultations to discuss your case and assess your comfort and confidence in them. Ensure you understand their fee structure. Discuss your case in detail, providing all necessary documents and information. Your legal representative can then guide you on the next steps.
