A Gwinnett County Divorce Lawyer Offering Compassion And Support Through A Difficult Time
A divorce, or dissolution of marriage, is the legal ending of a marriage. Over the last several years, the divorce rate has increased dramatically, and it is estimated that approximately half of all marriages will end in divorce. Divorce can be a simple process when it’s mutual, but it can get very complex when it’s contentious.
Fox Firm, P.C., is a boutique law firm in Lawrenceville that serves the greater Atlanta metropolitan community. Founding attorney Doug Fox has been practicing law since 1995. He is a Gwinnett County divorce lawyer who will help you move forward with your life. With him as your advocate, you can expect to receive compassionate support and exceptional representation during what can be a very difficult time.
The Complexity Of Divorce
Each divorce can range in complexity based on the facts and circumstances of the situation. There are many different reasons that couples decide to divorce, including different beliefs, domestic violence and abuse, substance abuse, money issues and infidelity, just to name a few. The underlying issues can contribute to the complexity of your divorce. No matter what the reason is, when a married couple decides to separate, there is a lot to sort out, including:
- The division of marital property, assets and wealth
- The division and allocation of marital debts
- Spousal support and alimony
- Child custody arrangements, visitation schedules, parenting time and parenting plans
- Child and financial support for minor children and the allocation of costs for older children
No matter how contentious your divorce is, it is important to consult an experienced lawyer to ensure that your rights and interests are protected. Gwinnett County divorce attorney Fox has 30 years of litigation experience. His knowledge of Georgia family and divorce laws is a valuable resource for his Atlanta clients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Divorced In Georgia
With attorney Fox’s decades of experience, he knows that if you are contemplating divorce, then you probably have a lot of questions. Below, are answers to some of the questions he is most commonly asked. For answers to your specific questions, he offers prospective clients a chance to meet for an initial, confidential consultation.
What are the grounds for getting divorced in Georgia? Does there have to be a reason?
In Georgia, you can file for divorce based on several grounds. Georgia is considered a “no-fault” divorce state, so the most common reason is to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” This simply means that you and your spouse can no longer get along, and there’s no hope of reconciling.
Other grounds for divorce include:
- Adultery
- Desertion
- Mental or physical cruelty
- Substance abuse
There are also specific grounds, such as mental incapacity at the time of the marriage or even impotency. It’s important to understand that when someone cites grounds for divorce, it can have an impact on various aspects of the process, such as the division of property and alimony. An experienced divorce attorney can help you determine the most appropriate grounds for your situation.
Will I have to go to court for my divorce?
While every divorce will be filed with the court, whether you will have to go to court or trial depends on several factors. If you and your spouse can agree on all of the specific terms of your divorce, like child custody, property division and/or spousal maintenance, you might be able to finalize your divorce without a court appearance. This is known as an uncontested divorce. Often, couples going through a divorce will attempt mediation, which can help facilitate a settlement on contested issues. Couples who agree to work together in an uncontested divorce will likely move through the process faster.
However, if you cannot reach an agreement, then your divorce is considered a contested divorce. You will likely need to go to court to resolve these issues. A judge will then make decisions based on the evidence presented. Having a lawyer can help you navigate this process and represent your interests. Even if you initially plan for an uncontested divorce, unexpected issues can arise that may require court intervention.
When should I contact a divorce attorney?
You should contact a divorce attorney as soon as you start thinking about a divorce. Early consultation can provide valuable insights into what to expect and help you prepare emotionally and financially.
An attorney can explain your rights, guide you through the legal process and help you make informed decisions. If there are children and/or significant assets involved, then obtaining legal advice early on is even more crucial. Additionally, an attorney can help you gather necessary documentation and evidence, which can be time-consuming. By consulting a lawyer early, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure that you’re taking the right steps from the beginning.
Consult A Gwinnett County Divorce Attorney
No matter where you are in the divorce process, a consultation with a divorce attorney can help guide you and give you some direction about the next steps.
To schedule a confidential, no-obligation consultation, call the firm’s Lawrenceville office at 770-341-4882 or send an inquiry through the firm’s website.