Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Athens

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Athens, Georgia?

  You may call the Athens-Clarke County Police Department at 706-613-3345 for non-emergency situations.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Athens, Georgia?

  You may get a copy of the police report by contacting the Records Division at 706-542-5813. Office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• Is retaining a divorce attorney in Athens still necessary if both parties agree on most divorce-related issues?

  Regardless if you and your spouse are divorcing cordially, it is still recommended that you hire an Athens divorce attorney to analyze the details of your divorce settlement. Even if you and your ex-spouse are currently in agreement, it is still a good idea to see an attorney to ensure that your rights are protected if conflicts arise later. In addition, your attorney can help you uncover any loopholes in your divorce agreement and propose more beneficial remedies.

• Does one need to leave the marital home if he or she files for a divorce in Athens?

  In contrast to other jurisdictions requiring divorcing couples to live in separate houses before initiating the divorce process, Athens and the rest of Georgia permit spouses who live together to proclaim themselves "legally separated." A divorce petition can be filed if one spouse believes they are legally separated from the other and no longer have marital relations with their partner.

• How long does it take for a divorce to be finalized in Athens?

  If all issues are resolved amicably, the divorce is deemed "uncontested" and can be finalized 31 days after the paperwork is submitted, barring any change in Georgia's laws. If there is disagreement, the divorce will be finalized when the case reaches court, which might take months or years. However, if you reach an agreement during the pendency of the case, you may present it to the court, and the divorce will be granted.

• What factors are considered in determining child custody following a divorce in Athens?

  During the divorce process, the Athens court will look at a number of variables, such as the child's age and gender and each parent's capacity to provide for and nurture the child. At the age of 14, a kid has the legal right to select which parent will receive custody. Additionally, a child between the ages of 11 and 13 may speak to the judge, but the judge is not compelled to follow the child's preferences.

• What can you do if an ex-spouse does not abide by a court order's terms following a divorce in Athens?

  If an ex-spouse refuses to fulfill a settlement agreement, parenting arrangement, or child support order, your best course of action is to bring an action to hold them in contempt of court and make them cooperate. However, you should also give them every chance to comply before filing a contempt action to increase your chances of getting compensated for any or all of your attorney's fees and litigation costs. You may seek the assistance of an Athens divorce attorney to discuss your options.