Georgia Executive Order

Is your ex using the coronavirus to keep your kids from you?

Governor Kemp issued an Order clarifying his Executive Order is not intended to interfere with visitation and parenting time. The Order went so far as to indicate the Shelter In Place order entered previously was not to act as a defense to any contempt actions based on a visitation denial. The Amended Executive Order was entered on April 3, 2020 in response to questions and concerns relating to custody orders and parenting time transfers.

Georgia family lawyers and governmental staff effectively petitioned to the Governor to amend his Executive Order to include, in pertinent part, the following:

“That no provision of Executive Order 04.02.20.01 shall limit, infringe, suspend, or supplant any judicial order, judgement or decree, including custodial arrangements … nor shall any person use the Executive Order 04.02.20.01 as a defense in an action in violation of a judicial order, judgement, custodial arrangement or decree …”

“Essential Services” shall also include the transport, visitation, regular care of family members and persons dependent on the service of others, and similar actions that ensure the welfare and best interest of persons in the State of Georgia, specifically including the elderly, children and disabled populations.”

The Order shall be effective from 6 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020 through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2020.

At SM&P, your health and safety are our top priorities. The local courts may have modified their processes, however, our attorneys and staff are prepared to work on your behalf via email or telephone and video consults from the comfort of your home. SM&P attorneys have extensive experience in family law and can explain how the laws are relevant to you and guide you throughout the process.

Thank you fellow family lawyers and friends in governmental places along with the Governor’s General Counsel, David Dove, and Deputy Executive Counsel, Candice Broce, for having our voices heard and were instrumental in this process.