The Role of an Attorney During a Divorce In Atlanta

A divorce is often a process that can deeply affect children and extended family members in addition to the people directly involved. Regardless of the sorrow experienced during this process, it is wise to have proper legal counsel so all parties involved are treated fairly, not taken advantage of, or bullied into forfeiting assets they rightfully deserve.

Atlanta family lawyers understand the complexities of divorce and are well-equipped to help individuals navigate them effectively. All attorneys, including the top family law attorney for divorce in Atlanta, are bound by Georgia law and will provide legal advice in accordance with the statutes applicable in the state. 

This includes guidance on what assets are regarded as marital property and is to be divided, and what outcomes of the divorce are reasonable based on precedent. Without this guidance, some people divorcing their partner may agree to unfavorable terms. When a client going through a divorce in Atlanta hires a family attorney, it is expected that they take on the following tasks:

1. File legal paperwork

The divorce process involves a lot of paperwork and it is expected that the family attorney will diligently prepare and file the appropriate legal documents before the court deadlines. These documents should also be in line with the Fulton County court rules, or those of other courts in Metro Atlanta, where applicable. 

Any mistake in these filings or delayed submissions can cause delays in the divorce process or negatively affect the offending party’s case. Having a seasoned attorney handle all the paperwork eliminates rookie mistakes and allows the client to focus on the important things in their daily lives while the divorce process moves along.

2. Determine the spousal support amount

When couples divorce, there is often an income disparity between both parties, and one party may require spousal support, or alimony, after the divorce is finalized. Their family attorney is tasked with evaluating: 

• Both parties’ earning capacity
• The length of the marriage 
• Contributions during the marriage

This helps determine a reasonable amount to be paid as spousal support. An experienced lawyer will ensure that the final figure reached will be based on the law and have sufficient evidence to support it.

3. Dispute resolution

Divorces are often hostile, and couples going through the process have a hard time communicating constructively with each other. Therefore, their attorneys are tasked with negotiating with each other to reach settlements on: 

• Child custody
• Child support
• Asset splits 

If both parties are unable to reach a settlement, their attorneys will have to make their case to a judge who will hear the facts of the case and determine which party gets what.

Endnote

Family attorneys in divorce cases act as a legal counselor, procedural guide, negotiator, and advocate. It is their job to argue in favor of their clients’ interests while adhering to the law. Their job is also to navigate legal complexities and help their clients sail through the difficult divorce process as smoothly as possible.