Deciding to divorce is hard, emotionally and practically. Every family's situation is different, but the choices you make before you file can protect you, your children and your finances, or make the road ahead harder.
The basics come first
Georgia has a residency requirement: the person filing generally must have lived in Georgia for at least six months (O.C.G.A. § 19-5-2). Divorce cases are heard in Superior Court, usually in the county where the other spouse lives. Once the case starts, the court's rules require each side to exchange a sworn financial affidavit before any temporary or final hearing where support or property is at issue (Uniform Superior Court Rule 24.2), so it pays to start organizing your own records early.
Custody is about the children
If you have children, custody is often the most important issue. Georgia judges decide custody based on the best interests of the child, with no presumption in favor of either parent (O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3(a)(1)). The judge can consider many factors, including each parent's involvement in the child's life and the importance of stability. Your day-to-day involvement matters, so keep a record of it.
Early mistakes are hard to undo
Moving out without a plan, emptying a joint account or sending an angry text can follow you through the whole case. Judges see these messages and actions, and they can affect your credibility at every stage. Keep every text and email, delete nothing, and document everything. If you or your children are not safe at home, your safety comes first; call 911 in an emergency.
How a session can help
Court Confidence offers one-on-one, hourly sessions for people representing themselves in Georgia divorce and custody cases. In a session, we walk through what to expect, organize your paperwork, and get you ready for mediation, depositions, hearings and trial. Preparation cannot promise a particular result, but it can help you walk into the courtroom knowing the road ahead.
To schedule a session, call or text 770-880-4781, email info@court-confidence.com, or book online at https://calendly.com/elizabeth-schneider-esq.
Elizabeth Schneider, Esq., is a Georgia family law attorney and the founder of Court Confidence in Suwanee. This article is general information, not legal advice for your situation.
