If you’re a parent going through a divorce in Atlanta, Georgia, one of your primary concerns is likely maintaining custody of your children. The thought of losing precious time with your kids or not being able to see them every day can be devastating. You may be worried about how the divorce will impact your children emotionally and whether you’ll be able to provide them with the stability and support they need during this challenging time.
Child custody cases can be emotionally challenging and complex, with both parents often feeling like they are fighting an uphill battle. You may be dealing with various emotions, from anger and resentment towards your ex-spouse to fear and uncertainty about the future. At the same time, you’re trying to navigate a complex legal system and make important decisions that will impact your children’s lives for years to come.
It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this process. Many parents have gone through similar struggles and have found ways to co-parent their children after a divorce. By understanding what judges look for when making custody decisions, you can better prepare yourself for what lies ahead and make informed decisions prioritizing your children’s best interests.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors judges consider in Georgia’s child custody cases.
The Best Interests of the Child Standard
In Georgia, judges make custody decisions based on the “best interests of the child” standard. This means that the judge will consider various factors to determine what custody arrangement best promotes the child’s welfare and happiness. Some of the key factors that judges consider include:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs
- The child’s current living situation and any potential disruptions
- The child’s preferences, if they are old enough to express them
- Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse by either parent
Parental Fitness and Stability
Judges will also examine each parent’s fitness and stability when making custody decisions. This includes factors such as:
- Each parent’s mental and physical health
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment
- Each parent’s employment and financial stability
- Each parent’s willingness to encourage a relationship between the child and the other parent
If one parent has a history of mental health issues, substance abuse, or criminal activity, this may impact their ability to gain custody.
The Child’s Needs and Routines
Judges will also consider the child’s specific needs and routines when making custody decisions. This may include the child’s:
- Educational needs and current school situation
- Extracurricular activities and social connections
- Medical needs and any special accommodations required
- Relationships with siblings and extended family members
Judges generally prefer to maintain stability and minimize disruptions to the child’s life, so they may favor custody arrangements that allow the child to continue their current routines and relationships.
Parental Cooperation and Communication
Finally, judges will look at each parent’s ability to cooperate and communicate effectively with one another. This is important because even after a divorce, parents must work together to make decisions about the child’s upbringing and ensure that the child maintains a relationship with both parents.
If one parent has a history of being uncooperative or hostile towards the other parent, this may impact their ability to gain custody. On the other hand, parents willing to put aside their differences and prioritize their child’s well-being may be more likely to receive a favorable custody arrangement.
Navigating a child custody case can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you have rights as a parent and that resources are available to help you. Working with an experienced Atlanta child custody attorney can provide you with the guidance and support you need to make informed decisions and advocate for your child’s best interests. With the right legal support and a focus on your child’s well-being, you can successfully navigate this challenging process and emerge stronger on the other side.
Working with an Experienced Atlanta Child Custody Lawyer
If you’re going through a divorce and are concerned about child custody, it’s important to work with an experienced Atlanta child custody lawyer to help you advocate for your rights as a parent. Your lawyer can help you gather evidence to support your case, negotiate with the other parent’s child custody attorney, and present a compelling argument to the judge.
At Hobson & Hobson, our team of divorce and child custody attorneys has years of experience handling child custody cases in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. We understand how stressful and emotional this process can be, and we’re here to provide the guidance and support you need every step of the way.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards protecting your relationship with your children, contact us today at (770) 284-6153 or fill out our confidential contact form to schedule a consultation. We’ll work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your family.
Attorney Sarah Hobson at Hobson and Hobson, P.C. are powerful advocates for those who fight for better futures for those going through divorce and custody law matters.
