Child Custody

Child custody issues are often the most difficult for divorcing couples to resolve. Tannen Law Group works closely with clients to create a child custody arrangement that is in the best interest of the children.

Child Custody Lawyer In Gwinnett, Fulton & Forsyth

Importance of Child Custody in Divorce Cases

Child custody is one of the most important aspects of a divorce, as it directly impacts the well-being of your children and your parental rights. A skilled custody attorney in Georgia can help you navigate complex legal decisions, ensuring the best interests of your child remain the priority. Whether you’re facing a custody dispute or seeking a fair parenting plan, Tannen Law Group provides experienced legal guidance. We work closely with you to develop a custody arrangement that protects your rights and creates stability for your child’s future.

Navigating Child Custody in Gwinnett, Fulton & Forsyth

Types of Child Custody

Understanding the different types of child custody is essential when navigating a divorce in Georgia. At Tannen Law Group, we help parents secure custody arrangements that protect their rights and serve their child’s best interests.

  • Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody – Legal custody grants a parent the right to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and upbringing, while physical custody determines the parenting time and visitation.
  • Legal Custody – If a parent has sole legal custody, then he or she does not have to consult with the other parent before making decisions regarding the child. If a parent has joint legal custody, that parent must consult with the other parent before making any substantial decisions regarding the child. In cases of joint legal custody tie-breakers are designated to determine which parent has final say in case of conflict.
  • Physical Custody – There are three(3) forms of physical custody, sole, primary and joint.  Sole physical custody means one party has all (100%) of the parenting time and the other parent has none (0%). Primary physical custody means one parent has more than half (50%) of the parenting time and the other parent has less than that. Joint physical custody means each parenting half (50%) of the parenting time.
 

Our experienced custody attorneys work to create custody agreements that foster stability and a positive future for your child.

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Tailored custody plans for real-life parenting.

Attorney David Tannen Explains Physical Custody

In this video, Attorney David Tannen breaks down the key concepts of physical custody and parenting time in Georgia divorce cases. He explains the different types of custody and discusses how parenting time is typically divided.

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Putting children at the center of every decision.

How Custody Is Determined in Georgia?

Best interests of the Child Standard

Custody decisions in Georgia prioritize the best interests of the child, considering factors such as each parent’s ability to provide a stable home, emotional and financial support, and a healthy environment. Courts may also take the child’s preference into account, especially if they are 14 years or older.

In contested cases, courts in Gwinnett, Fulton, and other Georgia counties assess the child’s relationship with each parent, educational needs, and any history of abuse or neglect. A guardian ad litem may be appointed to investigate and advocate for the child’s best interests. At Tannen Law Group, our custody attorneys advocate for fair custody agreements that align with this standard while protecting your parental rights.

A child's well-being comes first —our job is to ensure fair and secure support so they have the stability and care they deserve.

Parenting Plan Outline

Essential Elements of a Comprehensive Parenting Plan

A parenting plan establishes clear expectations and responsibilities for both parents, ensuring a stable and supportive environment for the child. It serves as a roadmap for navigating parenting duties and minimizing conflicts after separation or divorce.

Custody & Living Arrangements

Custody and living arrangements define decision-making, residence, and parenting time.

Holiday & Special Occasion Scheduling

Scheduling ensures both parents share time with the child during important events.

Communication Guidelines

Communication guidelines set expectations for contact, check-ins, and resolving disputes.

Education & Extracurricular Activities

Education and extracurricular activities cover school choices, participation, and academic responsibilities.

Healthcare & Medical Decisions

Healthcare and medical decisions, doctor choices, and special care needs.

Dispute Resolution & Modifications

Preparation for dispute resolution ensures the co-parenting plan stays flexible and effective through changes.

Need Help Customized a Co-Parenting Plan?

At Tannen Law Group, we guide parents in creating customized, legally sound co-parenting plans tailored to their unique needs, promoting a stable and positive upbringing for their children while minimizing future disputes.

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Helping you adjust custody with care.

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Adjusting Custody to Fit Your Family’s Needs

Modifying Custody Arrangements

Custody arrangements may need to change over time due to major life events such as a parent’s relocation, a child’s evolving needs, or significant changes in a parent’s circumstances. In Georgia, modifications must demonstrate a substantial change that directly impacts the child’s well-being. Courts consider factors like stability, educational needs, and parental involvement when evaluating these requests.

At Tannen Law Group, we understand that every family’s situation is unique. Our team works closely with you to assess your specific needs and build a strong case for custody modifications that align with your child’s best interests. Whether adjusting parenting time, addressing relocation concerns, or redefining parental responsibilities, we provide personalized legal guidance to protect both your rights and your child’s future.

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How Tannen Law Group Can Help with Child Custody

At Tannen Law Group, we understand that child custody decisions are among the most important aspects of a divorce or separation. Our experienced attorneys work closely with you to negotiate fair custody agreements that prioritize your child’s well-being while protecting your parental rights. Whether through mediation or direct negotiations, we strive to create solutions that foster stability and cooperation.

In contested custody cases, having strong legal representation is essential. Our team is prepared to advocate for you in court, presenting a compelling case to secure the best possible outcome for you and your child. We guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that your rights are upheld while working toward a resolution that serves your family’s long-term interests.

We make the custody process clearer and calmer.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Tannen Law Group, we understand the high stakes involved and are here to provide clarity and guidance. Below, we answer common questions about high-asset divorces to help you navigate the process with confidence.

In Georgia, a child's preference is considered in custody decisions, but it is not the sole deciding factor. Children aged 11 and older can express a preference, and at 14, their choice carries significant weight unless the court finds it is not in their best interest. Ultimately, the judge evaluates multiple factors, including the child's well-being and parental stability, to make a final decision.

If one parent refuses to follow the custody order, the other parent can take legal action to enforce it. In Georgia, this may include filing a contempt motion, which could result in penalties such as fines, makeup parenting time, or even a modification of custody. Courts take violations seriously and aim to uphold the child’s best interests while ensuring both parents comply with the agreement.

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Flexible Payment Plans to Fit Your Needs

Our team takes pride in transparent billing and cost effectiveness, ensuring that every decision is made with your best interests in mind to minimize wasteful spending and avoid common pitfalls. With our experience, proven processes, and knowledge of cutting-edge technology, we deliver results with maximum efficiency and value.