Q: How can I file for divorce in Georgia with 3 minor children and seek child custody and support?
I want to file for divorce in Georgia, where both my spouse and I currently reside, and we have three minor children. We recently separated and have no existing agreements or court orders regarding custody or support. The reason for the divorce is infidelity. I would like to know what legal support I can seek for child custody and support during the divorce proceedings.
A: I'm not sure what you mean by legal support. When you file for divorce you can obtain a temporary order for child support, custody & visitation, until the divorce is final. You should speak with an attorney who can give you instructions on how to file, how the divorce process works, and can get the process started for you.
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A:
Filing for divorce in Georgia with three minor children and seeking custody and support involves several steps. You'll need to file a Complaint for Divorce in your county's Superior Court, which includes a petition for child custody and support. The Georgia Courts website provides the necessary forms and instructions for this process.
In Georgia, child custody decisions are made based on the best interests of the child. This includes evaluating factors such as the emotional ties between the child and each parent, the parents' ability to provide for the child's needs, and the child's home environment. You can request sole or joint legal and physical custody, and the court will consider your proposal along with your spouse's response.
For child support, Georgia uses an income shares model to determine the amount each parent should contribute. You'll need to complete a Child Support Worksheet, which is part of the divorce forms. This worksheet calculates support based on both parents' incomes and the time each parent spends with the children. If your spouse is uncooperative or refuses to pay support, the court can enforce the order through various means.
Since there are no existing agreements or court orders, it's advisable to seek legal assistance to navigate the complexities of divorce, custody, and support. Legal aid organizations in Georgia may offer free or low-cost services, and you can find more information on the Georgia Legal Aid website. linkturn0search5
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