Georgia Child Support Law

Experienced Georgia Divorce & Family Law Attorneys

Georgia child support laws are meant to protect the best interest of a child, and are often amongst the most difficult to deal with during divorce proceedings. For this reason, child support in GA is always left for a judge to decide, never a jury. Indeed, the court will determine how child support is to be managed on a case by case basis. Fortunately, there are some very specific guidelines set forth under Georgia law, however within those guidelines there is room for flexibility to deal with each unique case. If you are dealing with a child support proceeding, we highly recommend you contact one of our family law attorneys who can help ensure that your interests and the interests of your children are well-protected.

Who Is Responsible For Paying GA Child Support?

According to child support laws in Georgia, both parents are equally responsible for the financial support of their minor children. This means that a GA court can order child support from either one or both of the parents involved. The decision will be based on a variety of factors that include, but are not limited to:

• The financial situation of each parent

• The ages of the children

• Financial obligations to another household

• Educational or day care expenses

• Physical custody of the children or travel expenses necessary for visitation

• The income of each parent

How Long Is A Parent Responsible For Paying GA Child Support?

In Georgia, child support generally continues until a child turns eighteen or graduates from high school. In some cases, a parent may be required to pay child support past the age of 18, for instance if the child is still in high school.  In other cases, a parent's child support obligations may be terminated early, for instance if the child is getting married.  Lastly, Georgia allows for the modification of child support via court order based on significant changes in financial conditions or income levels.

  Getting Started

If you are dealing with a child custody or child support issue in Georgia, we advise you to speak with one of our family law attorneys sooner rather than later.  The process can be intense and sometimes intimidating, and the help of an experienced attorney will be invaluable in helping you protect your interests and the interests of your children. For a typical GA child support or custody matter, our law firm retainer begins at $2,500.00.  If you would like to talk with one of our family law attorneys about representing you, either fill out the brief form to your left or give us a call.  For additional contact information and driving directions to our firm please visit our Contact Page.  Thank you and we look forward to working with you.