Best Child Custody Lawyers in Clarkesville

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Hotard & Hise, LLC Attorneys at Law

Hotard & Hise, LLC Attorneys at Law

Clarkesville, United States

Founded in 2009
3 people in their team
About Hotard & HiseIn 2012, T. Gabriel Hotard Jr. and Tricia L. Hise combined their individual law practices to form Hotard & Hise....
English

About Child Custody Law in Clarkesville, United States

Child custody law in Clarkesville, United States involves legal proceedings that determine who will be granted custody of a child, a decision usually made based on what is in the child's best interest. The law mainly applies when parents are divorcing or not living together. The custody can be sole (one parent has the power to make major decisions for the child) or joint, where both parents share the decision-making authority.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Several situations may necessitate the need for a lawyer in child custody cases. There may be disagreements over custody rights, where one parent may deny the other access to the child. Issues involving relocation of a parent, parenting plans, and enforcement of court orders also often require legal assistance. It may also be necessary to have a lawyer if one party cannot amicably agree on the visitation rights and other child-related issues.

Local Laws Overview

In Clarkesville, the court considers several factors when determining custody, including the relationship of each parent with the child, the physical and mental health of all parties, and the ability of each parent to provide for the child's needs, among other considerations. In most cases, preference is for parents to have joint custody, promoting the continuous relationship between the child and both parents. However, if there's evidence of domestic violence or substance abuse, it can significantly impact the custody ruling in favor of the non-offending parent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between physical and legal custody?

Physical custody refers to where the child will reside, while legal custody refers to the right of a parent to make important decisions concerning the child's upbringing including education, health, and religious decisions.

Can visitation rights be denied?

If a court has granted visitation rights, these cannot be legally denied unless there is a court order modifying the rights. Violating visitation orders can lead to legal consequences.

Can custody orders be modified?

Yes. Child custody orders can be modified if there are changes in circumstances and it's proven in court that the modification is in the best interest of the child.

How is the child’s preference considered in custody cases?

In Clarkesville, a child’s preference might be considered, depending on their age and maturity. Courts tend to give more weight to older and more mature children's preferences.

What happens if there are allegations of abuse?

The court takes allegations seriously and may order investigations. If proven, it has the potential to significantly affect the outcome of the custody proceedings.

Additional Resources

Those seeking legal advice can consult the family law section of the State Bar Association's website, or contact the local office of children's services. There are also nonprofit organizations that offer free legal aid for individuals unable to afford a private lawyer.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in child custody matters, consider consulting a family lawyer to understand your legal rights and obligations. Collect all necessary documents including previous court orders, child's records, any evidence of your relationship with the child etc. Having concrete evidence will be beneficial in your case.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.