When it comes to your child’s well-being, you must ensure they’re in a safe and stable environment. But what happens when disagreements with your co-parent about their care and upbringing lead to conflict and uncertainty?
If you’re facing a custody dispute in Georgia, you’re not alone. With the proper guidance, you can take control of the process and make informed decisions that put your child’s needs first. In this blog, we’ll explain how to initiate child custody proceedings in the state.
Filing a petition for child custody
To initiate legal proceedings, you must file a petition for child custody in your county. You can include this petition in your divorce papers.
You must then serve the custody forms to the other parent to ensure that they aware of the proceedings. This way, they will have an opportunity to respond.
Georgia recognizes two different types of custody: physical and legal. Having legal custody of your child will allow you to make major decisions for them. However, having physical custody allows them to live with you.
Sometimes, the court may allow both parents to share physical and legal custody. In these cases, one parent or guardian will serve as the primary custodial parent and have the final word in parenting decisions.
It’s essential to understand that custody orders will not change until the child turns 18 unless circumstances change significantly. If life circumstances change and you or the other parent want to modify the custody order in place, a petition will need to be filed.
Putting your child’s needs first
When filing for a petition for child custody, it’s essential to keep one thing top of mind: the needs of your child. While disagreements and conflicts with your co-parent may be unavoidable, it’s crucial to prioritize your child’s well-being and stability above all else.