When it comes to matters that impact your family, emotions can often run high. It can be challenging and overwhelming to think about how a divorce, separation, or other legal issue may impact the future of you and your family. Fortunately, working with Spencer Law Office can give you the reassurance and support you need during this difficult time. With over 35 years of experience handling family law matters, principal attorney Gerald Spencer will guide you through your options and help you and your family move forward to enjoy a brighter future.
Family Law Attorney Serving Valdosta, Quitman, & Brooks County
Experienced Domestic Relations Attorney Compassionately Serving Quitman Clients and Their Families
Our Domestic Relations Services
We handle a wide range of family law services, including divorce, adoption, child custody and child support, legitimation, petitions, name changes, and family violence matters involving restraining orders. Whatever your circumstances are, we will listen carefully to your needs and help you find practical and workable legal solutions so that you can move forward with confidence.
Divorce
When you and your spouse determine that you need to go your separate ways, we can help you move through each phase of the divorce process. We will provide you with the guidance you need, considering aspects such as dividing up assets, negotiating alimony payments, and determining child custody arrangements. By listening closely to your divorce goals, we will work towards a peaceable resolution that will enable you to enjoy the next chapters of your life.
Adoption
If you are considering the adoption of a child, there are many factors to consider. Unfortunately, adoptions are often full of bureaucratic red tape that can be difficult to navigate, so having a trusted adoption attorney by your side during the process can be a tremendous asset. Spencer Law Office understands the nuances of the adoption process, so we will help you prepare for the new addition to your family and ensure that each step of the process is handled in a swift and effective manner.
Child Custody & Child Support
During a divorce, parents often worry about how their children will be affected. Attorney Gerald Spencer understands how to find equitable child custody arrangements that ensure the children will continue to thrive, even when the family structure changes. Whether you are seeking child support payments from your spouse or you have been ordered to pay child support, our firm can help you achieve an equitable child support arrangement. Contact our firm today to learn more.
Guardianship for Minors and Adults
We can help you open a minor or adult guardianship case by filling out the necessary forms and serving the guardianship papers to the adult and/or any relatives or other third parties. We also assist with guardianship hearings and the post-hearing forms that must be completed and filed. We will be by your side throughout the entire process.
Legitimation, Petitions, and Name Changes
Sometimes, child custody or child support orders need to change. If you are seeking a modification to an existing order, Spencer Law Offices can help you petition the courts to honor your desired changes. Our office also handles name changes so that your new name can be legally recognized Additionally, we help fathers with the legitimation process, enabling them to obtain a lasting legal bond with their biological child.
Restraining Orders
Sometimes, family members can become angry and turn aggressive or even violent. If you need help putting a restraining order in place, or if you have had a restraining order filed against you, Spencer Law Office can give you the legal support you need. It’s important to understand your rights, and we are here to talk through your options and secure a favorable outcome.
FAQs About Domestic Relations
Q: What is legitimation, and what can I expect from going through the process?
A: Legitimation is the legal action that allows the unwed father of a child born in the state of Georgia to establish legal rights to his child. When a baby is born to a married couple, the state of Georgia automatically legally recognizes the husband as the child’s father. When a child is born out of wedlock, the child’s biological father may file a petition for legitimation in order for the law to recognize him as the child’s father. When obtained, an order of legitimation creates a legal relationship between the father and his child, allowing the father to be listed on the birth certificate. Additionally, a father can then assert his visitation and custody rights. If you are seeking legitimation, contact our office today to learn more.
Q: I want to pursue a divorce, but my spouse does not. What do I do?
A: In Georgia, a person may file for divorce regardless of the desires of their spouse. While this will be considered a contested divorce, and it may be more difficult to resolve, it will still being the process and ultimately allow you to move forward on your new path.
Q: How will our property be divided during our divorce proceeding?
A: Like the courts in many states, Georgia courts use equitable division to divvy up marital property. Marital property includes anything purchased during the course of your marriage. There may be some challenges, as the court may consider some items to be marital property that you or your spouse may believe do not qualify as marital property. Since the division of assets and property can be difficult, it is important to have a seasoned divorce lawyer to help you navigate the process. Call our firm today to get started.
Issues that impact your family can be stressful, especially when you have several questions and concerns. Working with Spencer Law Office will give you the confidence and peace of mind you need as you make important decisions that will impact the future of you and your family. We will work diligently to help you understand all of your options, and we will protect the interests of you and your children. Contact us today at (229) 263-4181 to speak to an understanding and experienced domestic relations attorney.
