Georgia: Family Law lawyers

Body Copy – Child abuse comprises a range of harmful and damaging actions against minors. These include physical and sexual abuse, mental harm, and neglect. States treat child abuse allegations seriously. Cases can result in termination of parental rights and/or incarceration. Child abuse laws, aspects of mandatory and permissive reporting laws, and how states work with social services vary.

A domestic partnership is a legally recognized form of a committed relationship. Not all states recognize domestic partnerships within a legal context. To receive some of the benefits married couples enjoy, some couples may choose to legally formalize their relationship. They may file for a domestic partnership or a civil union. A domestic partnership provides the two parties with some of the legal benefits of marriage. Just as recognition of domestic partnerships varies by state, so too do the benefits.

A guardianship is a legal relationship established by the courts to allow someone (a guardian) to make decisions on behalf of another (a ward). They do so because the ward is unable to make important decisions for themselves, either because they are underage or because they are not physically or cognitively competent. The type of guardianship a judge will order depends on the kinds of decisions a guardian needs to make on behalf of the ward. A guardian will need to be legally appointed to their role, usually by a probate court judge.

Paternity is the legal establishment of the identity of a child's father, often using DNA testing, which may be a factor in cases involving child support, custody, adoption, and inheritance. Establishing paternity can help a mother enforce child support orders or, in some cases, reunite estranged fathers with their children. Because paternity is not determined solely by a birth certificate or a blood test, a father who is not married to their child's mother needs to acknowledge their paternity voluntarily. Otherwise, the father may lose their rights to someone else who makes the effort to become the child's presumed father.

FindLaw's Lawyer Directory is the largest online directory of attorneys. Browse more than one million listings, covering everything from personal injury to DUI to employment law.

Detailed law firm profiles have information like the firm's area of law, office location, office hours, and payment options. Attorney profiles include the biography, education and training, and client recommendations of an attorney to help you decide who to hire.

Use the contact form on the profiles to connect with a Georgia attorney for legal advice.

Many lawyers offer free or low-cost consultations. Finding a lawyer that can align to your needs and goals may impact the outcome of your legal matter. Things to do to help get you started include:

• Ask for recommendations and referrals from friends, family, and colleagues
• Research attorneys online through directories and bar association websites
• Review qualifications and experience
• Interview prospective lawyers
• Consider compatibility
• Read client reviews and references
• Determine conflicts of interest

Making an informed decision when choosing an attorney requires time to research if a lawyer is a good fit for you. Asking the right questions can help you determine if they have the approach, capabilities, and experience to assist you in your legal matter. Some questions to ask a potential attorney include:

• What is your experience and expertise in this area of law?
• Have you handled cases like mine and what were the outcomes?
• What strategy would you use for this type of case?
• What are the biggest challenges of my case?
• What is your fee structure and how do your charge for your services?