Family Law Services in Atlanta, GA
The team at A.B. Olmos & Associates, P.C. provides support with domestic issues ranging from child support, custody, paternity, contempt and legitimation. We’re here to help guide you through the legal process.
With over 15 years of experience practicing in Georgia, our dedicated family law attorneys advocate for the metro Atlanta community.
Modification of Child Support and Custody
Georgia allows for modifications of child support awards and child custody orders including parenting time and visitation agreements.
For custody modifications, the court needs proof of a material change of circumstance since the initial custody order was entered. First and foremost, the courts look at the best interest of the child, which means there must be proof that a modification is in the child’s best interest in order to adjust a custody order.
In most cases, a parent can only petition to modify child support after a period of two years from the date the judge ruled on the final order of a previous petition to modify by the same parent. A change of circumstances in income or needs at any time can be reason for a support modification; any review requires reliable evidence of income or financial status.
The attorneys at A.B. Olmos & Associates, P.C. are available to discuss the details of custody, parenting plans and support, and what these agreements mean for your family.
Paternity
Paternity establishes the biological father of a child. When the identity of a child’s biological father is legally proven, the father may be listed on the birth certificate.
In Georgia, an action to establish paternity can be filed by either the mother or the father. Once paternity is established, the court will set an order of child support. Paternity does not grant the father any inherent right to a relationship with the child, but it is the first step before any custody, visitation or child support orders.
For cases involving paternity law or if paternity is contested, you have legal representation to help navigate the process.
Legitimation
After paternity has been established, legitimation creates a legal relationship between a biological father and his child. This is necessary if the mother and father of the child were never married. Until the father is granted a legitimation order, he does not have any authority to make legal decisions or exercise any parental power for his child. O.C.G.A. § 19-7-25.
A legitimation action allows the father to ask for custody and/or visitation rights. It also establishes rights for the child to inherit. It’s important to note that even if a father financially supports his child, he does not have any legal right until legitimation.
Our family law attorneys are here to help the father file a petition with Superior Court in a timely manner, as well as guide him through the legal effects that result from legitimation.
Third Party Custody
Georgia law allows for certain relatives, known as third-party relatives, and equitable caregivers to file for visitation rights or permanent custody of a child.
Third-party relatives can include grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles and siblings.
Equitable caregivers can include non-biological, non-adoptive caregivers in defined situations, provided there is unequivocal clear evidence of their responsibilities in relation to the parental role of the child.
If you are granted third party custody, you are responsible for the child in question. For these cases, it’s essential to have an experienced family law attorney to help you make your case.
Contempt Actions
Legal issues can occur even after court orders have been rendered. Contempt of court refers to the disobedience or disregard of a court order. When a party is refusing to comply on matters of domestic relations, all orders of concern may be enforced.
Georgia requires you to file the motion in the court the original order was rendered. The court then has the power to enforce their orders to assure compliance. O.C.G.A. § 19-6-28.
Whether you are being denied visitation or aren’t receiving court-ordered payments, having experienced counsel and effective representation can make a critical difference in your case.
Schedule A Consultation with an Experienced Family Law Attorney
Scheduling a consultation with our team means that you’re taking the most important step forward in your legal journey. Our family law attorneys keep you informed and provide the support you need.
For a variety of legal services in metro Atlanta, contact A.B. Olmos & Associates,P.C. Call us at 678-683-8500 or fill out this online form.
