Here are short answers to common Georgia custody questions.
Does Georgia Favor Mothers in Custody Cases?
No. Neither parent has a head start, and the judge decides on the child’s best interests, though an unmarried father must legitimate the child first. See Can Fathers Win Child Custody in Georgia?
At What Age Can My Child Choose Which Parent to Live With?
At 14, though a judge can override the choice if it is not in the child’s best interests. At ages 11 to 13, the judge must consider the child’s desires, which do not control. See Can a Child Choose Which Parent to Live With?
What Is the Difference Between Joint and Sole Custody?
Joint legal custody means both parents share the major decisions, though a judge can give one parent the final say when they cannot agree. With sole custody, one parent makes them unless the order says otherwise. See What Is Joint Legal Custody in Georgia?
Is There a Standard Visitation Schedule?
No. Your parenting plan sets the schedule; no statute sets a default. See Georgia Has No Standard Visitation Schedule and What Must a Georgia Parenting Plan Include?
Does Moving Out of State Mean Losing Custody?
Not automatically: a judge weighs the move against the child’s best interests. Once a custody order is in place, a parent who moves must give the other parent at least 30 days’ notice unless a court order says otherwise. See Will I Lose Custody If I Move Out of State?
Can I Stop Paying Child Support If Visits Are Denied?
No. Support and visitation are independent; if visits are denied, enforce the order in court. See Georgia Child Support Does Not Depend on Visits.
What If My Child Refuses to Visit?
A child’s refusal does not by itself put the custodial parent in contempt, but leaving the decision to a child under 14 can count as withholding visitation. See When a Child Refuses to Visit in Georgia.
How Does Family Violence Affect Custody?
A judge may weigh family violence by either parent, and once the judge finds it occurred, the safety of the child and the victim parent comes first. See Family Violence and Child Custody in Georgia.
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This post is a quick overview of the law and is not intended as legal advice. Please feel free to contact our office for a consultation if you have questions about this or any other legal aspects regarding your case!