The Typical Divorce: What To Expect

While no two divorces are exactly alike, there is a defined process for dissolving a marriage in Georgia. It is designed to give each spouse the chance to assert their property and parental rights. Of course, it is virtually impossible for you to be treated fairly in your divorce unless you are represented by an experienced attorney who has helped thousands of men and women in your position. Attorney of Family Lawyers of Atlanta is here to help you protect your rights and guide you through the divorce process step by step with practical advice tailored to your life.

Georgia’s Divorce Process

A divorce begins when one spouse files a “complaint for divorce” with the court and serves a copy to the other spouse. The spouse who was served with the divorce complaint has 30 days to file a response, known as an “answer.” From there, the parties’ attorneys gather evidence of the marital property, the children’s needs and other things relevant to the divorce. This is known as the “discovery phase.”

Usually, once you and your spouse are finished with discovery, the judge assigned to the divorce will order you to go through mediation or a case evaluation.

• Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution in which you and your spouse work with a neutral third party (usually an attorney) to try to resolve the necessary issues, such as child custody, child support and property division, without having to go to trial.
• In a case evaluation, you and your spouse each present your case to a neutral attorney, who then tells you how a judge would most likely rule on disputed matters. This information can help you negotiate a settlement faster.

Most divorce cases settle out of court, but trial is an option if you and your ex cannot work out an agreement. With so much at stake, we prepare thoroughly for court. For example, if the judge will decide your child support order, we will interview your children’s teachers, doctors, coaches and others to show that the facts support your case. We will also go through your bank statements and other documents, and assess your current lifestyle to make sure your spouse is not hiding any income or assets.

Few of our clients realize that your divorce experience can differ greatly depending on the county in which you file. We will help you sort through complex jurisdictional issues and make sure you enjoy every possible legal advantage.

Giving You Confidence During Divorce

You deserve an attorney who practices family law exclusively and knows the way divorce works in Georgia. Talk to Attorney Family Lawyers of Atlanta for more information about the divorce process and what to expect. Call 404-418-7777 to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in Atlanta, Snellville, Roswell, Marietta and Duluth for your convenience.