Custody
One of the most challenging and emotionally difficult aspects of divorce is child custody and visitation. We understand how incredibly painful this aspect of divorce can be and bring our empathy as well as our experience in handling this delicate legal matter. The standard in Georgia for determining custody is the “best interest of the child”. This standard gives the court broad discretion in determining which parent receives physical custody of the children, the appropriate parenting time/visitation for each parent, and what role each parent will have in making important decisions about their children’s welfare, health, education and religious training.
Any judge will tell you that the best person to determine how you and your spouse share parenting time and make decisions affecting your children’s future is you. However, when you and your spouse are not in agreement as to what constitutes the “best interest of the child,” your counsel at Boyd Collar Nolen Tuggle & Roddenbery will work to get you the best result through a hearing or a trial on custody issues. Our ultimate goal is ensuring that the children’s best interests are promoted and protected.
Custody
Divorces that cross state and international lines bring a new layer of complexity to issues of custody and support. We have access to extensive networks of resources and the experience needed to protect your interests in these cases. Bob Boyd and Tina Roddenbery are Fellows in the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers with knowledge Read More
In traditional custody and parenting time arrangements, it is normally the biological or legal parent of the child who is granted custody rights (for example the child’s mother or father). In some cases, a person other than the child’s biological or legal mother or father may be granted custody rights. These are known as “third-party” custody cases.Read More
Obtaining a parenting plan for the children that is in their best interests and takes into account the unique needs of the family is the highest priority of most parents. Given their heavy caseloads and the need to move cases along, judges frequently are unable to take into account the nuances of the lives of every family and the unique needs of the children. Read More
Certain life changes can require modification of an existing custody or support order. Alimony and child support may be modified up or down, provided there has been a substantial change in the financial status or income of either party. In addition, troubling changes in an ex-spouse’s life can require a change to the agreement to protect a child. Read More
Not every child is born within a marriage, and fathers are not guaranteed rights just because their name is on a child’s birth certificate. Georgia law recognizes the mother of a child born out of wedlock as the sole custodian and complete parental authority pending the child’s “legitimation.” Read More