At Stearns-Montgomery & Proctor, we understand that adoption is a joyous occasion but one that can also be complicated, time-consuming, and expensive. It is important that you get legal advice early in the adoption process.
Post-divorce spousal support, which is often referred to as "alimony" or "separate maintenance," can be awarded for a number of reasons. Unlike child support, there are no State requirements for spousal support awards in divorce.
The appeal is the next stage in the legal process after a trial when one party believes that an error was made by the court or an attorney during the proceedings. You may have the right to appeal a decision or outcome if you are not satisfied with your case.
If you and your spouse entered into a prenuptial agreement and are now filing for divorce, it is important to understand the significant impact it could have on your divorce settlement.
In an initial custody dispute between the parents over the custody of a minor child, the sole question to be determined is what is in the best interests of the child. This question can only be answered by a judge, as Georgia law prohibits juries from determining custody matters.
Most parents want to pay reasonable child support if they do not have primary custody of their children but often worry about the impact of excessive and financially crippling payments.
Common-law marriage is a legally recognized marriage in which the parties did not obtain a marriage license. Many people still believe they have entered into a common-law marriage.
If you've been involved with a felony or misdemeanor it's important to know the facts and move forward with clear and concise information regarding your case.
Domestic partnership provides an option for couples who live together but prefer not to get married. Our Georgia family law attorneys can guide you through the process and legal requirements.
The legal definition of family or domestic violence under Georgia law is the occurrence of one or more abusive acts, as defined by the state, against spouses and children, romantic partners, and other family members or household guests who reside in the same household.
The relationship that exists between a child and their grandparents is important and should be encouraged. Unfortunately in child custody cases, maintaining regular contact despite differences between the parents can prove challenging.
At Stearns‑Montgomery & Proctor, our family law attorneys handle matters relating to fathers and their children, both in cases of divorce and in those where the parents are unmarried.
Many people have misconceptions about a prenuptial agreement (sometimes called prenup or antenuptial). Most often, prenuptial contracts protect the interests of existing children or partners in family businesses. Other times, it protects the higher income earning spouse.
Child custody and guardianship provide legal frameworks that place a child’s best interests at the center of court decisions. Courts in Georgia weigh different standards for guardianship and custody depending on parental fitness, emergencies, or long‑term incapacity. Physical custody determines with whom a child resides, while legal custody assigns responsibility…
Parenting after separation or divorce requires careful planning, communication, and foresight. Parents who create thoughtful parenting plans often prevent future conflict and protect their child’s best interests. A strong plan outlines not only schedules and responsibilities but also ways to handle disagreements that might arise later. Families who focus on…
Child custody matters in Georgia require careful planning, but emergencies demand immediate attention to protect a child’s safety and well-being. Emergency child custody actions are appropriate when the circumstances pose imminent harm, neglect, or danger to the child/children. This requires swift legal intervention. Parents and guardians must understand the processes…
