Family Law Attorney in Alpharetta, GA
Starting the Custody Process
If you’re hoping to gain custody of your child, the first step is filing a petition in your local superior court. The Court will balance and weight over sixteen factors when making the final determination of child custody.
Determining Visitation and Parenting Time
Courts decide visitation based on what’s best for the child. Factors like the child’s age, each parent’s relationship with the child, and the parents’ ability to cooperate, distances between two separate houses and the schools are considered.
Custody vs Guardianship
While both involve caring for a child, custody usually refers to a biological parent’s and/or grandparent’s right to control the child’s upbringing. Guardianship, on the other hand, often applies to individuals who aren’t biological parents but are legally responsible for the child.
Withholding Visitation or Parenting Time
Understand that child support and visitation rights are separate issues. Court’s frown on self-help and as such do not encourage parents to violate a court order. Even if you have not received child support, you generally cannot deny visitation—the law sees it as the child’s right to see both parents. Refusing to follow a court order or restricting a child from seeing a parent is often times grounds for the Court to award custody to the other parent.
When navigating the complexities of family law, you deserve to work with a legal professional you can trust. Contact our family law attorney in Alpharetta, GA, today when you reach out to North Metro Litigators.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Litigators
What is a litigator, and when do I need one?
A litigator is an attorney who specializes in representing clients in court. You need a litigator when you are involved in a legal dispute that may lead to a trial, such as a business conflict, a personal injury claim, or a real estate issue. Their role is to advocate for you in all stages of the dispute, from initial filing to courtroom representation.
What is your approach to legal representation?
We believe in providing personalized and strategic representation. We first conduct a thorough assessment of your case to understand all the facts and legal precedents. We then develop a proactive strategy, working to resolve the dispute through negotiation or mediation if possible, while always preparing a strong case for trial. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for you.
How much does it cost to hire a litigator?
The cost of hiring a litigator varies depending on the complexity of the case. Fee structures can include hourly rates, flat fees, or, in some personal injury cases, a contingency fee where you only pay if we win. We provide a clear, transparent fee agreement during your initial consultation so you understand the costs upfront.
Do you only handle cases that go to trial?
No. While we are skilled trial lawyers, our goal is always to find the most efficient and effective resolution for your case. We are adept at resolving disputes through negotiation or mediation, which can often save you time, money, and stress. However, we are always prepared to take your case to trial to protect your rights if a fair settlement cannot be reached.