Going Through a Divorce?
We Can Help!
For over a decade, Tori White Legal Group has focused on family law, providing compassionate representation to families and children. Let us help you!
for a personal consultation
Family law in Georgia covers a wide area of issues, and family attorneys are central to addressing the complex legal processes involved. Family law and divorce attorneys are tasked with handling sensitive cases that range from divorce and child custody to alimony, adoption, and the division of marital assets. Their role is multifaceted, involving the provision of legal advice, the drafting of documents, negotiation of settlements, and representation in court as needed.
Experienced Marietta family attorney and divorce lawyer Tori White has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of families and children since 2009, offering compassionate and dedicated legal representation. At Tori White Legal Group, we offer a comprehensive approach to family law and divorce. In addition to understanding the strain divorce can have on marital relationships, we also have an acute awareness of the emotional strains that divorce can place on children.
At Tori White Legal Group, the foundation of our approach is built on providing effective counsel and staunch advocacy in legal matters related to family law and divorce. Our holistic approach allows our clients to concentrate on maintaining stability and security for their children, aiming for a positive outcome for the entire family.
If you’re facing legal challenges, contact Tori White Legal Group today at (770) 744-1529 to discuss how we can support and protect your family’s legal interests during these trying times.
I don’t even have the words to describe the professional and invested experience I had with Tori White Legal Group. As you can imagine, divorce is rarely nice and is more often then not a very overwhelming experience especially when custody is not an area that you can come to an agreement on…read full google review
Beth B.
We fully recognize how stressful and emotionally taxing legal disputes can be for families. At Tori White Legal Group, our primary aim is to effectively handle these challenges on your behalf, allowing you to regain peace of mind and focus on what matters most: your family.
The outcomes of family law issues can significantly impact an individual’s future and that of their families. We’ve built a reputation for gaining and maintaining our clients’ trust through consistent results and open communication. We are committed to understanding the specifics of your situation and finding a resolution that best supports the well-being of your entire family. At Tori White Legal Group, we handle your legal concerns with the utmost care, so you can focus on moving forward with your life with peace of mind and confidence.
Selecting a skilled family attorney is pivotal in effectively managing family law issues. In Georgia, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you find an attorney who can best represent your interests. Key considerations include the attorney’s experience with cases similar to yours, their track record in achieving positive outcomes in court, and how they handle client communications.
Family law matters are often deeply personal and involve sensitive information, so it’s crucial that you feel at ease when discussing intimate details with your attorney. To gauge an attorney’s reliability and effectiveness, reviewing client testimonials and asking for referrals can be incredibly helpful.
Choosing Tori White Legal Group can be particularly beneficial for several reasons. Our firm has a proven track record of handling a wide range of family law cases with sensitivity and professionalism. Our attorneys are well-versed in Georgia family law, bringing years of experience and a deep understanding of the legal complexities involved. Clients consistently praise our clear and open communication style, emphasizing our ability to make them feel informed and supported throughout the process.
Furthermore, Tori White Legal Group is known for its compassionate approach to client relationships. We understand the emotional challenges that come with family law disputes and strive to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. By choosing our firm, you’re not just hiring an attorney; you’re gaining a supportive partner who will stand by your side and advocate fiercely for your rights and the well-being of your family.
Contact us today at (770) 744-1529. Our attorneys stand ready to provide crucial legal advice and assistance.
High-conflict and contested divorces can present complex challenges that demand careful legal attention. In Georgia, a contested divorce is one in which the divorcing spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues required to legally dissolve their marriage. Unlike an uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all terms and the divorce is finalized smoothly, a contested divorce involves more complex legal procedures.
The nature of a contested divorce can make it lengthy, costly, and emotionally taxing for both parties involved due to the extensive legal procedures and the potential for conflict between spouses. In Georgia, the resolution of a contested divorce can take many months or even years, depending on the complexity of the issues and the degree of disagreement between the spouses.
| Grounds for Divorce | Description |
|---|---|
| Close Relation | One spouse is too closely related to the other by law. |
| Mental Incapacity | One of the spouses was mentally incapacitated at the time of marriage. |
| Impotence | One of the spouses was impotent at the time of marriage. |
| Coercion into Marriage | One spouse was forced, threatened, or deceived into marrying. |
| Pregnancy by Another Man | The wife was pregnant by another man at the time of the marriage and the husband was unaware. |
| Adultery | One spouse commits adultery. |
| Willful Desertion | One spouse has willfully deserted the relationship for at least one year. |
| Criminal Conviction | One spouse is convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude and is sentenced to at least two years in prison. |
| Habitual Intoxication | One spouse is habitually intoxicated. |
| Cruel Treatment | One spouse engages in cruel treatment, intentionally causing physical or emotional pain that reasonably causes fear of serious injury or danger to one’s life or health. |
| Incurable Mental Illness | One spouse has an incurable mental illness, certified by a court or by two physicians who have personally examined the patient, and has been institutionalized for at least two years prior to the filing for divorce. |
| Drug Addiction | One spouse is addicted to drugs (any controlled substance). |
In Georgia, grounds for divorce are the legally recognized reasons for which a divorce may be granted. The state allows for a “no-fault” divorce, which can be obtained if the marriage is considered “irretrievably broken,” indicating that the relationship cannot be repaired.
Apart from this, the following are specific fault-based grounds that can also lead to a divorce:
These various grounds provide specific criteria under which a divorce may be pursued in Georgia, reflecting the serious considerations involved in the dissolution of a marriage.
When dealing with the division of assets and property in a contested divorce, Georgia follows an “equitable distribution” model. This does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split, but rather a division that is fair and considers various factors such as the financial and non-financial contributions of each spouse to the marriage. Complexities can arise, especially with the valuation of assets, determining marital versus non-marital property, and potential disputes about the appreciation of separate assets. It is advisable for individuals to work with legal counsel who can effectively advocate for their interests in the division process.
Alimony, or spousal support, is another critical aspect of contested divorces in Georgia. The determination of alimony involves multiple factors, including the duration of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, the age and physical condition of each spouse, and the financial resources of each party. Alimony can be awarded on a temporary, permanent, or periodic basis, and understanding how to present a case for or against alimony is essential. Accurate financial disclosures and strategic legal arguments are key components in these negotiations or court decisions.
Preparation for court appearances in a contested divorce is vital. This involves not only gathering and organizing all necessary documentation, such as financial records and evidence supporting one’s case but also understanding courtroom procedures and etiquette. Practicing testimony, preparing for cross-examinations, and developing a clear, concise presentation of one’s position can greatly influence the outcome. It is beneficial to work closely with legal counsel to simulate court scenarios and refine one’s presentation and legal arguments.
Navigating a high-conflict and contested divorce requires a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, thorough preparation, and effective advocacy. Each of these components plays a crucial role in protecting an individual’s rights and achieving a favorable resolution under Georgia family law.
For skilled legal assistance and to learn more about how we can help you, contact Tori White Legal Group today at (770) 744-1529.
My experience with Tori and Kelly was outstanding. There main goal is to make sure your kids are in a safe, stable, comfortable environment. There professionalism is way more than I expected. Tori had a way of getting my kids to open up and they all loved her. I would recommend them to anyone in need of an angel…read full google review
Ted M.
Amicable divorces, often characterized by mutual agreement and cooperation, offer a pathway that can be less adversarial than contested divorce proceedings. A key feature of an amicable divorce is the absence of contentious disputes requiring judicial intervention, allowing the process to proceed more smoothly and often more quickly.
Couples pursuing an amicable divorce typically work together to negotiate terms that are fair and acceptable to both parties, possibly with the assistance of mediators or attorneys who facilitate productive discussions. This collaborative approach not only reduces the emotional strain associated with more adversarial divorces but can also be more cost-effective, as it generally involves fewer court appearances and less legal wrangling.
Amicable divorces often result in a settlement that outlines all agreed-upon terms, which is then submitted to the court for approval. Once approved, the agreement becomes part of the final divorce decree. The ability to reach an amicable resolution can provide a foundation for a cooperative relationship moving forward, and this is especially important if children are involved.
An amicable divorce can have several beneficial aspects compared to divorce litigation or a contested divorce. Careful consideration of these aspects can help if you are considering an amicable divorce.
One of the most significant benefits of an amicable divorce is its cost-effectiveness. By reducing the need for prolonged court battles and extensive legal maneuvering, couples can minimize legal fees and associated costs. This financial efficiency not only alleviates the economic burden but also allows both parties to allocate resources towards future needs rather than expending them on conflict.
Amicable divorces typically involve less conflict and confrontation, which significantly reduces emotional stress for all parties involved, including any children. The more cooperative approach helps maintain a sense of dignity and respect, reducing the emotional toll often associated with divorce proceedings.
Maintaining a respectful and cooperative relationship during the divorce process can lay the foundation for positive interactions in the future, especially important in cases where children are involved. Amicable divorces can lead to better post-divorce relationships, facilitating easier co-parenting and interactions at family events.
Amicable divorces in Georgia, while beneficial for their simplicity and reduced emotional stress, do come with certain drawbacks. One significant downside is the potential for inequitable agreements. Because the process relies heavily on mutual agreement and negotiation without rigorous legal scrutiny, there is a risk that one party may agree to terms that are not entirely in their favor, often due to a lack of understanding of their legal rights or a desire to quickly resolve the process. This can lead to regrets or financial difficulties in the future, especially if one party is less informed or assertive during negotiations.
Additionally, while amicable divorces aim to minimize conflict, this approach might overlook deeper, unresolved issues that could resurface later. Without thorough legal and psychological guidance, parties might not address underlying conflicts adequately, which can impact long-term co-parenting or interactions.
Furthermore, the simplicity of an amicable divorce might lead to oversights in drafting detailed agreements that cover all potential future conflicts or changes in circumstances, such as changes in financial status, relocation, or adjustments to child support and custody arrangements. These omissions can necessitate further legal interventions later on, potentially increasing costs and conflict in the long run.
Lastly, the informal nature of amicable divorces might discourage some individuals from seeking independent legal advice because they feel it is unnecessary in a cooperative setting. This can result in one or both parties not fully understanding the implications of the divorce agreement, leading to unintended consequences that could have been mitigated with professional guidance. Even in an amicable divorce, the help of an experienced attorney can help individuals make sure that the terms of the settlement align with their best interests and that their rights are protected.
The collaborative law process is a structured approach that involves both parties working with their respective attorneys and, often, other neutral professionals, to negotiate and resolve their differences outside of court. This process emphasizes open communication, transparency, and mutual respect, with the goal of reaching a comprehensive and mutually acceptable settlement agreement. Under Georgia law, the collaborative process is recognized as a valid method to facilitate amicable divorces, allowing parties to maintain control over the outcome.
Successfully negotiating a settlement agreement is key to achieving an amicable divorce. This involves open discussions and compromise where necessary to address all relevant issues, including asset division, alimony, and child custody arrangements. In Georgia, such agreements, once finalized, are submitted to the court for approval and are typically upheld unless found to be grossly unfair to one party. Effective negotiation helps ensure that agreements are equitable and tailored to the unique circumstances of the divorcing couple.
By focusing on cooperation and open communication, amicable divorces not only preserve relationships and reduce stress but are also more cost-effective. These qualities make pursuing an amicable resolution under Georgia family law a worthwhile consideration for couples looking to part ways with dignity and respect. At Tori White Legal Group, our attorneys can assist in determining whether an amicable divorce is right for you. We can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your situation and help you make an informed decision that protects you and your family’s best interests.
Contact us today at (770) 744-1529 for more information.
In Georgia, the considerations of child custody and support are guided by the principle of the child’s best interests. The state recognizes different forms of custody: physical custody, which deals with where the child primarily lives, and legal custody, which involves the authority to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, including their education, healthcare, and religious practices. Custody can either be joint, where both parents share responsibilities and decision-making, or sole, where only one parent has these rights.
Georgia courts generally prefer joint custody arrangements, supporting the view that maintaining strong relationships with both parents is beneficial for the child unless there are factors that warrant a different arrangement. When deciding on custody, courts examine several factors: the emotional bonds between the child and each parent, the parent’s ability to provide for the child, the stability of the home environment, and, in certain cases, the child’s own preferences depending on their age and maturity. Issues such as a parent’s history of violence or substance abuse are also critically assessed.
Resolving disputes over custody can be emotionally demanding. Georgia promotes resolution methods like mediation, which involves a neutral third party to help parents agree. However, if parents cannot reach an agreement, the matter may proceed to court for a decision. The state encourages amicable resolutions to minimize stress on the child and facilitate cooperative co-parenting.
Overall, in child custody matters in Georgia, the focus is consistently on ensuring outcomes that serve the best interest of the child, balancing parental responsibilities and the child’s welfare in the backdrop of divorce or separation scenarios.
In Georgia, the calculation of child support is a critical process that ensures both parents contribute to the financial needs of their children. Georgia law requires that the incomes of both parents be considered when determining child support payments. This includes all sources of income such as wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, dividends, and even certain types of benefits. The goal is to fairly assess the financial contributions each parent can make towards the upbringing of their children, ensuring that support payments reflect the economic realities of both parents.
To calculate child support in Georgia, tools such as worksheets and calculators from the Georgia Child Support Commission are available. Initially, it’s essential to determine which parent will be designated as “custodial” (having the children for the majority of the time) and which will be “noncustodial” (having the children less than half the time).
In cases where each parent has equal time with the children, financial assessments are necessary to determine which parent is considered noncustodial. Typically, in such situations, the parent with the higher income is identified as the noncustodial parent and is therefore responsible for paying child support. This is based on the assumption that the custodial parent already incurs direct expenses in raising the children.
The support calculators provide an estimated amount that each parent should contribute. However, only the noncustodial parent is required to make payments to the custodial parent, reflecting the assumption that the custodial parent spends their portion directly on the children’s needs.
Enforcing child support orders is crucial for the well-being of children, and Georgia has several mechanisms in place to ensure compliance. These include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, and even legal penalties for non-compliance. Furthermore, either parent can request a modification of the child support order if there is a significant change in circumstances that affects their ability to pay or the child’s financial needs. Modifications must be approved by the court, which will review the situation to determine whether an adjustment is justified.
Calculating, adjusting, and enforcing child support are all governed by detailed legal standards and procedures in Georgia. These processes are designed to protect the interests of children and ensure they receive adequate support from both parents. By adhering to these guidelines, the legal system strives to maintain fairness and responsibility among divorced or separated parents. Our attorneys at Tori White Legal Group can assist in determining the correct calculation of child support as it applies to your case. In addition, we can also assist in reevaluating and applying for the modification and enforcing existing child support orders.
For more information, contact us today at (770) 744-1529.
In Georgia, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) offers different methods for resolving family law disputes outside of traditional courtroom settings, primarily through mediation and arbitration.
Mediation is a widely used approach in family law disputes in Georgia, involving a neutral third party who facilitates discussions between the parties to help them find a mutually acceptable solution. Mediation fosters open communication and cooperation, allowing parties to craft solutions that are tailored to their specific family needs. This not only tends to result in more personal and effective resolutions but also reduces the time and costs typically associated with court proceedings, thereby alleviating much of the emotional and financial stress.
Arbitration is another option under alternative dispute resolution, where a neutral arbitrator hears all sides of the argument and evidence before making a binding decision. This process is faster than traditional court litigation and is conducted in a private setting, which can be advantageous for maintaining confidentiality in family disputes. Although it is less formal than court, the outcomes of arbitration are final and enforceable, much like a court judgment.
Both mediation and arbitration offer distinct differences from traditional litigation. Mediation is entirely collaborative and gives the parties control over the outcome, with the mediator facilitating discussion but not making any decisions. In contrast, arbitration involves a more adjudicative process where the arbitrator has the authority to decide the outcome, similar to a judge in a courtroom. However, unlike litigation, both mediation and arbitration can be less adversarial, helping to maintain a more amicable relationship between the parties. They also offer more flexibility in scheduling and can be completed more quickly than conventional court cases.
Alternative dispute resolution offers several benefits in family law cases, including privacy, cost savings, and a less adversarial process. Whether choosing mediation or arbitration, it is essential to select a qualified professional to ensure the process runs smoothly and effectively. For experienced advice, contact us today. Our attorneys stand prepared to provide professional and compassionate counsel to assist you in determining the best approach possible in resolving your divorce.
Call (770) 744-1529 today.
Tori is amazing, intelligent, and compassion attorney. I’ve used her for mediations where she treats both parties with respect and patience. She is very knowledgeable of the law and the family court system. Tori is also an excellent GAL. She is thorough and doesn’t leave ANY stone unturned…read full google review
Jennifer G.
In Georgia, family law encompasses several dedicated roles specifically designed to assist in the resolution of disputes, particularly those involving children. The roles of parent coordinators and guardians ad litem are crucial in family law, particularly in complex custody disputes.
A parent coordinator is a professional appointed by the court to help parents in high-conflict divorce or custody cases manage ongoing issues concerning their children. A parent coordinator, typically a professional with a strong background in psychology, law, or social work, assists separated or divorced parents in making shared decisions regarding their children.
The coordinator’s role is to facilitate communication between the parents, assist in resolving disputes regarding child-rearing, and help implement parenting plans. They work closely with both parents to ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of the children and to minimize conflict in the decision-making process.
The use of a parent coordinator is typically reserved for cases where parents struggle to communicate effectively on their own and need ongoing support to implement and adhere to court-ordered parenting plans. Parent coordination in custody cases provides substantial benefits by facilitating smoother interactions and decision-making between parties who are experiencing ongoing conflict, particularly in the context of co-parenting.
Moreover, parent coordination can lead to more stable and enduring custody arrangements. Coordinators assist parents in understanding and adhering to court-ordered custody plans, making adjustments as needed to accommodate changes in the family’s circumstances or the children’s needs. This ongoing support can prevent minor disagreements from escalating into larger disputes that might otherwise require judicial intervention.
A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) plays a crucial role in legal proceedings involving children, particularly in contentious custody and family law cases. Appointed by the court, the GAL acts as an independent and neutral party whose primary responsibility is to advocate for the best interests of the child or children involved.
The Guardian ad Litem conducts a thorough investigation into the child’s circumstances, which includes interviewing the child, parents, and other individuals who may have significant insights into the child’s life and well-being, such as teachers and medical professionals. They may also review documents pertinent to the child’s welfare, such as school records and medical reports. This comprehensive evaluation helps the GAL to make informed recommendations to the court regarding custody arrangements, visitation, and other aspects of the child’s care.
The presence of a Guardian ad Litem in family law cases is particularly valuable because they provide the court with an objective perspective focused solely on the child’s best interests, free from the biases that may affect the parents’ positions. This focus helps ensure that the child’s needs are given a voice, especially in situations where the child might otherwise not have the capability to express their wishes and concerns.
Overall, the Guardian ad Litem serves as a vital advocate for children, ensuring that their rights and needs are considered foremost in all judicial decisions affecting their lives. This role is critical in protecting children from the potential turmoil of family conflict and in fostering decisions that will enhance their welfare and development.
At Tori White Legal Group, we are committed to ensuring that the best interests of your children are carefully considered and advocated for in legal proceedings. As your Guardian ad Litem, we can undertake a thorough investigation into your case. Our comprehensive approach is designed to gather all necessary information to make well-informed recommendations that truly reflect the best interests of your children.
If you are navigating a custody dispute or other family law matters and need dedicated, professional guidance to protect your children’s welfare, contact Tori White Legal Group today at (770) 744-1529. We are here to provide the support and advocacy your family needs during this critical time.
Going through a legal issue can be profoundly challenging, even more so when it involves your family. Family law proceedings typically carry heavy emotional and financial tolls on all involved parties and prolonged cases can become increasingly difficult to manage. Effective legal representation is crucial to mitigate these issues.
At Tori White Legal Group, we are deeply aware of the significant effects divorce can have on your personal and family life. Our objective is to make this complex legal process as straightforward and pain-free as possible. Our team brings extensive experience in family law, providing tailored legal services that meet the unique needs of each client.
At Tori White Legal Group, we do more than just represent you legally; we provide experienced advocacy in and out of the courtroom, enabling you to move forward with confidence and peace of mind. Our family law and divorce attorneys are ready to help you fully understand your rights and the choices available to you. Every case is different, which is why we take the necessary time to closely examine the details of your situation and craft a customized strategy that aligns with your specific needs.
For skilled support in family law and divorce cases, schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney today. Call (770) 744-1529 for dependable legal assistance.
Navigation
Contact Info
Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. Please be advised that the results achieved in any given case depend upon the exact facts and circumstances of that case. Tori White Legal Group cannot guarantee a specific result in any legal matter. Any testimonial or case result listed on this site is based on an actual legal case and represents the results achieved in that particular case, and does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction of the outcome of any other legal matter Privacy Policy | Terms of Service.
