Child Custody Lawyers in Columbus, GA

Key Insights into Georgia Child Custody Laws

When it comes to child custody agreements in Georgia, it's important to have a clear understanding of the state's laws and regulations. Our experienced Columbus, GA child custody attorneys can provide you with the knowledge and guidance you need to navigate the legal process with confidence.

Key points to consider about Georgia child custody laws include:

• Types of custody arrangements (joint custody, sole custody, etc.)
• Factors considered in determining custody (child's best interests, parental fitness, etc.)
• Modification of custody agreements (change in circumstances, court approval, etc.)

By having a solid grasp of these laws, you can make informed decisions and advocate for the best interests of your child. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and get the legal support you need.

The Process of Modifying Child Custody Arrangements in Georgia

When seeking an initial child custody agreement, parents are required to submit to the court a detailed schedule, strategy for communication between parents, and an explanation of how parents’ time, responsibilities, and decision-making power will be divided.

However, even the best-laid plans may be subject to revision when one or both parents’ circumstances change. In such cases, child custody modifications may be necessary in order to ensure child custody arrangements maintain the best interests of children and their parents.

Depending on the nature of the modification you are seeking, the process may vary. You can seek modification if you are looking to:

• Change visitation rights: You do not have to prove that your circumstances have changed if you are seeking to change your visitation arrangement or your allotted parenting time; however, you may only make such a request once every two years.
• Change custody arrangements: You do have to demonstrate that your circumstances have changed significantly when petitioning the court to change your custody arrangement, and you must also prove that the modifications you’re asking for are in your child’s best interest.
• Create new parenting plans: If you are petitioning to make a change, you must propose an entirely new parenting plan and submit it to the court for consideration, which will require the assistance of an experienced family law attorney.
• Relocate a great distance away: Either parent is always permitted to have a modification hearing if one is seeking to move somewhere else, and the parent seeking to move to a new house in the area or to a new area entirely must provide 30 days’ notice to anyone with parental, custodial, or visitation rights.
• Request custody changes based on a child’s wishes: In cases involving children age 14 and up, a child may choose which parent he or she would like to live with, and a child may request to change the custody arrangement at any time. The child’s wishes are not necessarily determinative, but the court will consider them and evaluate whether the proposed new arrangement is in the child’s best interest.
• Revise based on a notice of military deployment: Parents who are to be deployed as part of military service must give at least two weeks’ notice, if possible, so the court may issue a temporary custody arrangement. 

Contact a Columbus, GA Child Custody Attorney Today

At Poydasheff & Sowers, LLC, our Columbus child custody lawyers are here to answer all your questions. Our child support and child custody attorneys in Columbus have many years of experience practicing family law and can help put your mind at ease by providing reliable advice and insight every step of the way.

Call (706) 705-5777 or fill out our online contact form today to speak to a family lawyer in Columbus, Georgia.