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Child Custody in Roswell

A Comprehensive Guide to Child Custody Laws, Legal Standards, and Parental Rights in Roswell, Georgia

Few legal matters are as emotionally charged or consequential as child custody. For parents in Roswell, Georgia, the outcome of a custody case can shape not only their relationship with their children but also the entire trajectory of their family’s future. At The Sherman Law Group, we understand that nothing matters more than your children — their safety, happiness, and emotional well-being.

Our experienced Roswell child custody attorneys combine compassion with precision, guiding parents through Georgia’s complex custody laws with strategic insight and genuine care. Whether you are negotiating custody in a divorce, modifying an existing order, or facing a dispute over parenting time, we are here to provide clarity, advocacy, and a steady hand during one of life’s most stressful experiences.

The Legal Foundation: How Georgia Courts Determine Custody

In Georgia, child custody decisions are governed by O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3, which emphasizes the best interests of the child as the controlling standard. The court does not favor one parent over the other based on gender or financial status; instead, judges evaluate numerous factors to determine what arrangement will serve the child’s emotional and physical needs.

These factors may include:

  • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment
  • The relationship between the child and each parent
  • The mental and physical health of both parents
  • Each parent’s involvement in the child’s education and activities
  • The willingness of each parent to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent
  • Any history of substance abuse, neglect, or domestic violence

When a child is 14 years or older, Georgia law allows that child to express a custody preference, which the court generally honors unless it determines that the chosen arrangement would not be in the child’s best interests.

Legal vs. Physical Custody: Understanding the Difference

Georgia distinguishes between legal custody and physical custody:

  • Legal custody refers to the authority to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religion.
  • Physical custody determines where the child primarily resides and the schedule for parenting time or visitation.

In many Roswell cases, courts award joint legal custody, allowing both parents to share in decision-making, while one parent may have primary physical custody. However, each custody arrangement is unique and tailored to the child’s needs and the parents’ circumstances.

Parenting Plans: The Blueprint for Custody Arrangements

Every custody case in Georgia requires a parenting plan, which outlines how parents will share responsibilities, make decisions, and manage schedules. A well-crafted parenting plan should include:

  • A detailed visitation schedule (including holidays and vacations)
  • Decision-making procedures for major issues
  • Communication protocols between parents
  • Provisions for dispute resolution

At The Sherman Law Group, we work closely with our clients to create parenting plans that promote stability, minimize conflict, and serve the child’s long-term interests.

Modification of Custody Orders in Roswell

Life changes — jobs, relationships, and financial circumstances evolve. Georgia law recognizes that what worked once may not always work later. Parents can request a modification of custody when there has been a material change in circumstances that affects the child’s welfare.

Common reasons for modification include:

  • A parent’s relocation
  • Changes in a parent’s work schedule or living situation
  • Concerns about a parent’s behavior or home environment
  • A child’s changing needs or preferences

Our attorneys understand the procedural and evidentiary challenges involved in modification cases. We present strong, well-documented arguments to show why a change is necessary — or why an existing arrangement should remain in place.

Enforcement of Custody Orders

When one parent fails to follow a custody or visitation order, the other parent can file a contempt action to enforce compliance. Georgia courts take such violations seriously, and penalties can include fines, makeup visitation time, and even jail time in egregious cases.

At The Sherman Law Group, we help parents assert their rights firmly yet constructively, seeking solutions that prioritize the child’s emotional health while ensuring legal compliance.

The Psychological and Legal Dimensions of Custody

From a jurisprudential standpoint, Georgia’s approach to custody reflects a modern understanding of child development and family dynamics. The “best interests of the child” standard integrates both legal realism and developmental psychology, recognizing that the child’s welfare transcends mere material provision.

Legal scholars have noted that courts increasingly value co-parenting cooperation, emotional intelligence, and child-centered decision-making as critical components of long-term well-being. Thus, effective custody advocacy in Roswell requires not only mastery of Georgia law but also a nuanced appreciation of family systems, child psychology, and the evolving science of attachment and resilience.

A Local Perspective: Custody Disputes in Roswell’s Family Courts

In Roswell and the greater Fulton County area, child custody disputes are handled with a balance of legal precision and judicial discretion. Judges here expect well-prepared, fact-based arguments — and they recognize when a parent is acting in good faith versus out of bitterness or revenge.

Our firm’s local experience is invaluable. We understand the expectations of local judges, the tendencies of guardians ad litem, and the nuances of Roswell’s family court procedures. This insight allows us to craft compelling, credible arguments that resonate with decision-makers.

Protecting Your Parental Rights: Strategy and Advocacy

At The Sherman Law Group, we approach every custody case strategically. Our process typically includes:

  1. Initial consultation and case evaluation
  2. Collection of evidence, including witness statements, school records, and communications
  3. Negotiation and mediation, to seek a peaceful resolution
  4. Court representation, when litigation becomes necessary

Our goal is always to safeguard your parental rights while minimizing conflict and emotional harm to your children.

Protect What Matters Most

Your children deserve stability, love, and security. You deserve to be a central part of their lives. At The Sherman Law Group, we combine legal expertise with heartfelt dedication to protect families in Roswell and across Georgia.

If you are facing a custody dispute, seeking modification, or need to enforce an existing order, don’t navigate this alone.
 

Call The Sherman Law Group today to schedule a confidential consultation with our experienced Roswell child custody attorneys. Let us help you protect your rights — and your child’s future.

50 In-Depth FAQs About Child Custody in Roswell, Georgia

General Custody Questions

1. What is child custody under Georgia law?
Child custody determines who has the legal authority to make decisions for a child and where the child will primarily live. It includes legal custody (decision-making) and physical custody (living arrangements).

2. What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody governs major life decisions like education and healthcare, while physical custody refers to where the child resides and who provides day-to-day care.

3. Who decides custody in Roswell, Georgia?
Custody decisions in Roswell are made by judges in the Fulton County Superior Court, applying Georgia’s “best interests of the child” standard under O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3.

4. Does Georgia favor mothers over fathers?
No. Georgia law is gender-neutral. Courts evaluate each parent’s capacity to meet the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

5. What does “best interests of the child” mean?
It’s a holistic standard that assesses which arrangement best promotes the child’s safety, emotional health, stability, and overall welfare.

Custody Types and Arrangements

6. What is joint custody?
Joint custody means both parents share decision-making responsibilities (joint legal custody) and may share parenting time (joint physical custody) according to a court-approved plan.

7. What is sole custody?
Sole custody gives one parent exclusive decision-making and primary physical custody. The noncustodial parent typically has visitation rights unless restricted by the court.

8. Can parents agree on custody without going to court?
Yes, if both parents agree on all aspects of custody, they can submit a consent agreement to the court for approval. Judges generally uphold well-drafted, child-centered agreements.

9. How is custody determined when parents disagree?
If parents cannot agree, the court conducts a hearing and considers evidence and testimony to determine what arrangement best serves the child’s interests.

10. Can grandparents or other relatives get custody?
In limited circumstances, yes. If both parents are unfit or unable to care for the child, a grandparent or relative can petition for custody or guardianship.

Custody Factors and the Court’s Evaluation

11. What factors does a Georgia judge consider in custody decisions?
Judges evaluate factors such as home stability, parental fitness, the relationship with the child, work schedules, and each parent’s willingness to support the other’s relationship with the child.

12. Does a parent’s financial situation matter?
Financial stability can be considered but is not the sole determinant. Emotional support, parenting skills, and stability often weigh more heavily.

13. What if one parent has a criminal record?
A criminal record does not automatically disqualify a parent, but offenses involving violence, drugs, or child endangerment can significantly affect custody rights.

14. How does substance abuse impact custody?
Evidence of drug or alcohol abuse can lead to restricted custody or supervised visitation until the parent completes treatment and demonstrates sobriety.

15. Does the child’s preference matter?
Yes. Georgia law allows children 14 or older to express a preference for which parent they wish to live with. Courts typically honor this unless it’s not in the child’s best interest.

Visitation and Parenting Time

16. What is visitation in Georgia?
Visitation refers to the time the noncustodial parent spends with the child. It can be scheduled regularly or supervised if safety concerns exist.

17. What is supervised visitation?
Supervised visitation occurs when the court requires that a neutral third party or agency be present during visits, often due to safety or behavioral concerns.

18. Can visitation be denied?
Courts rarely deny visitation completely unless there’s credible evidence of abuse, neglect, or a serious risk to the child’s well-being.

19. What happens if a parent refuses visitation?
The parent may be held in contempt of court, which can lead to penalties, fines, or even jail time.

20. How can visitation be modified?
If circumstances change, a parent can petition the court to modify visitation schedules. The court will approve changes that serve the child’s best interests.

Custody During Divorce

21. How is custody handled during a divorce in Roswell?
Custody is one of the key issues resolved before finalizing a divorce decree. Temporary custody may be awarded early in the process until a final judgment is entered.

22. What if the parents aren’t married?
In Georgia, an unmarried mother automatically has custody at birth. An unmarried father must establish paternity and legitimation to gain custody rights.

23. What is legitimation?
Legitimation is a legal process that grants a biological father the right to custody and visitation. It must be filed in the county where the child’s mother resides.

24. Can custody be split evenly?
Yes. Courts can order 50/50 custody, though it’s granted only when both parents live near each other and can effectively co-parent without conflict.

25. What role does mediation play in custody cases?
Mediation allows parents to resolve disputes privately with the help of a neutral mediator. It often saves time, reduces stress, and gives parents more control than litigation.

Parenting Plans

26. What is a parenting plan?
A parenting plan is a detailed document outlining custody arrangements, decision-making authority, communication methods, and visitation schedules.

27. Who creates the parenting plan?
Each parent submits a proposed plan, and the court either approves one or merges both into a final version that reflects the child’s best interests.

28. What happens if parents can’t agree on a parenting plan?
The judge will decide based on evidence presented, often incorporating elements from both plans.

29. Can parenting plans be customized?
Yes. Plans should reflect the family’s specific needs, such as work schedules, school calendars, holidays, and extracurricular activities.

30. How can parenting plans be enforced?
If one parent violates the plan, the other can file a motion for contempt to enforce compliance or seek modification.

Custody Modification and Relocation

31. When can a custody order be modified in Georgia?
After a material change in circumstances that affects the child’s welfare — such as relocation, remarriage, or a change in health — a parent can request modification.

32. How often can custody be modified?
Georgia allows custody to be reviewed once every two years, except in cases of significant change or emergency.

33. What happens if a parent wants to move away?
The relocating parent must notify the other and may need court approval, especially if the move affects visitation or school arrangements.

34. Can relocation lead to a custody change?
Yes. If the move disrupts the child’s routine or damages the relationship with the other parent, the court may modify custody.

35. What if a parent moves without court permission?
Unauthorized relocation can lead to contempt charges, loss of custody, or other sanctions.

Enforcement and Contempt

36. What if a parent doesn’t follow the custody order?
The other parent can file a petition for contempt, asking the court to enforce the order. Penalties can include fines, attorney’s fees, or even jail time.

37. Can police enforce custody orders?
Generally, police involvement is limited unless the violation involves abduction or criminal behavior. Enforcement usually occurs through the courts.

38. What if a parent withholds a child after visitation?
This is a serious violation. The court can order immediate return of the child and impose legal consequences on the offending parent.

39. Can custody violations affect future custody rights?
Yes. A parent who repeatedly violates court orders may lose custody or visitation privileges.

40. How can The Sherman Law Group help with enforcement?
We can file motions, represent you in contempt hearings, and seek court remedies to protect your parental rights and ensure compliance.

Custody and Domestic Issues

41. How does domestic violence affect custody?
Domestic violence is a critical factor. Courts prioritize the child’s safety and may limit or deny custody or visitation to an abusive parent.

42. Can restraining orders include custody provisions?
Yes. Temporary Protective Orders (TPOs) can include temporary custody arrangements to safeguard the child during legal proceedings.

43. What if a parent accuses the other of abuse falsely?
False allegations can backfire. Courts scrutinize evidence carefully, and knowingly false claims may harm the accuser’s credibility and custody position.

44. Can mental health issues affect custody?
Yes, but only if they impair a parent’s ability to care for the child. Courts may require counseling or treatment before granting unsupervised custody.

45. How is child custody affected by substance abuse recovery?
Parents in recovery can regain custody if they demonstrate sustained sobriety, stable living conditions, and participation in treatment or support programs.

Legal Representation and Procedure

46. Do I need an attorney for a custody case in Roswell?
Absolutely. Custody law is complex and fact-intensive. A skilled Roswell child custody lawyer ensures your rights and interests are fully protected.

47. How long does a custody case take?
It varies — uncontested cases may resolve in a few months, while contested cases involving trials can take a year or more.

48. Can custody be decided temporarily before trial?
Yes. Courts can issue temporary custody orders while the case is pending, ensuring the child’s immediate stability.

49. Are custody cases public record in Georgia?
Most are, though judges can seal sensitive information, especially in cases involving minors or abuse allegations.

50. How can The Sherman Law Group help with my custody matter?
We provide strategic legal representation, compassionate guidance, and deep knowledge of Georgia family law. From negotiation to trial, we are your steadfast advocates, protecting what matters most — your child and your parental rights.

25 Costly Mistakes to Avoid in a Roswell, Georgia Child Custody Case

When custody is on the line, every action counts. Even small missteps can weaken your case, damage your credibility, or influence how the judge perceives your parenting. The following mistakes are among the most common — and the most damaging — in Roswell and throughout Georgia custody courts.

1. Ignoring Court Orders

Failing to follow temporary custody or visitation orders is one of the fastest ways to lose credibility with the judge. Courts expect parents to demonstrate respect for existing orders, even when they disagree with them. Noncompliance can result in contempt proceedings or loss of custody.

2. Badmouthing the Other Parent

Judges view disparaging the other parent — especially in front of the children — as emotionally harmful and contrary to the child’s best interests. Maintain civility and let your attorney handle all legal criticisms.

3. Withholding Visitation

Preventing the other parent from seeing the child, except for legitimate safety reasons, can make you appear controlling or manipulative. The court may respond by modifying custody in favor of the other parent.

4. Failing to Prioritize the Child’s Needs

Custody is about the child’s best interests, not the parent’s convenience. Courts take note when a parent prioritizes work schedules, social life, or personal grievances over the child’s emotional or developmental needs.

5. Showing Anger in Court or Mediation

Judges evaluate demeanor as part of a parent’s credibility. Outbursts, sarcasm, or visible hostility can signal instability or a lack of emotional control — both of which harm custody claims.

6. Ignoring the Parenting Plan Requirement

Georgia law requires a detailed parenting plan in every custody case. Submitting an incomplete or unrealistic plan tells the court you are unprepared or unwilling to cooperate. A well-thought-out plan shows commitment and foresight.

7. Involving Children in the Dispute

Children should never be messengers, spies, or emotional confidants during litigation. Judges strongly disapprove of parents who pressure children to take sides or discuss legal proceedings.

8. Misusing Social Media

Posts, texts, or photos can become evidence in court. Bragging about partying, criticizing your ex, or sharing negative content online can seriously undermine your credibility as a responsible parent.

9. Refusing to Communicate with the Other Parent

Courts favor parents who demonstrate a willingness to co-parent and communicate effectively. Stonewalling, ignoring calls, or sending hostile messages can harm your case.

10. Not Documenting Important Interactions

Detailed documentation — such as visitation logs, text exchanges, and expense records — can be crucial evidence. Relying on memory alone can weaken your position when disputes arise.

11. Failing to Seek Legal Counsel Early

Waiting too long to hire an experienced Roswell child custody attorney can lead to preventable mistakes. Early legal guidance ensures your actions align with Georgia law and best practices.

12. Allowing Personal Relationships to Interfere

Introducing new romantic partners too soon or exposing children to unstable relationships can raise red flags. Judges assess whether a parent provides a stable and appropriate home environment.

13. Violating Confidentiality or Court Rules

Discussing the case publicly or ignoring procedural rules shows disrespect for the legal process. Always follow your attorney’s instructions and maintain discretion.

14. Neglecting School or Medical Involvement

Active participation in your child’s education, medical care, and extracurricular activities demonstrates commitment. Lack of involvement can make it seem like you are disengaged from your child’s daily life.

15. Assuming Mothers (or Fathers) Automatically Win Custody

Georgia courts are gender-neutral. Assuming that one parent will “naturally” prevail can lead to complacency. Both parents must prove they can meet the child’s best interests.

16. Moving Without Legal Approval

Relocating without notifying the other parent or the court can trigger contempt actions or loss of custody. Always seek legal advice before making relocation decisions that affect parenting time.

17. Failing to Address Substance or Anger Issues

If you have struggled with substance use or anger control, ignoring the issue can damage your credibility. Seeking treatment or counseling demonstrates responsibility and self-awareness.

18. Disregarding Temporary Custody Orders

Temporary orders carry the same weight as final ones. Ignoring them — even briefly — can convince a judge you are unwilling to cooperate, jeopardizing your long-term goals.

19. Presenting False or Misleading Information

Lying about finances, relationships, or parenting history will almost always backfire. Georgia judges expect candor; dishonesty is often fatal to credibility and can even result in sanctions.

20. Refusing Mediation or Settlement Discussions

While custody litigation may be necessary, an unwillingness to participate in mediation suggests inflexibility. Judges value parents who make good-faith efforts to resolve disputes amicably.

21. Undermining the Other Parent’s Authority

Courts prefer parents who support each other’s parental role. Undermining the other parent’s rules or decisions confuses the child and can weigh heavily against you in court.

22. Letting Emotions Dictate Strategy

Custody disputes are emotionally charged, but decisions should be strategic, not reactive. Judges respect calm, rational parents who focus on the child’s welfare rather than personal vendettas.

23. Ignoring a Child’s Emotional Health

Custody battles are stressful for children. Failing to recognize signs of distress — such as anxiety or withdrawal — can reflect poorly on your parenting judgment.

24. Underestimating the Importance of Evidence

Verbal claims carry little weight without documentation. Present tangible proof — report cards, calendars, photographs, emails — to substantiate your assertions.

25. Choosing the Wrong Lawyer

Not all attorneys are equal in custody litigation. A skilled Roswell family law attorney with deep knowledge of Georgia custody law can mean the difference between success and failure. Choose counsel who understands the local courts, judges, and family law dynamics.

Closing Note

Every custody case in Roswell is unique, but the principles of preparation, honesty, and child-centered thinking are universal. Avoiding these 25 mistakes will not only strengthen your legal position but also demonstrate to the court that you are the stable, thoughtful, and loving parent your child deserves.

The Doctrinal Basis of Custody Law in Georgia

Child custody law in Georgia rests upon the foundational principle articulated in O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3, which mandates that all determinations be guided by “the best interests of the child.” This doctrine, though seemingly simple, is jurisprudentially rich — embodying both moral and constitutional considerations. It directs courts to move beyond parental claims of entitlement and to focus instead on the holistic welfare of the child. In Roswell and throughout Georgia, this principle functions as both a legal compass and an ethical anchor, ensuring that custody decisions reflect not mere procedural formality but genuine concern for a child’s developmental, psychological, and moral well-being.

The Evolution from Parental Rights to Child-Centered Jurisprudence

Historically, custody law evolved from patriarchal presumptions — first favoring fathers under the “tender years doctrine” and later mothers — to today’s gender-neutral, child-centered standard. This transformation reflects broader societal and legal recognition that neither biology nor gender guarantees superior parenting. In Roswell’s modern family courts, judges now examine a complex web of relational and environmental factors rather than defaulting to outdated norms. The law’s evolution mirrors a philosophical shift: from treating children as parental possessions to regarding them as individuals whose emotional and psychological needs must be prioritized above all else.

Judicial Discretion and the Art of Balancing Competing Interests

Custody determinations are not mechanical; they are acts of judicial discretion exercised within statutory boundaries. Judges in Roswell’s Fulton County Superior Court must synthesize competing narratives, weigh evidence, and interpret intangible human dynamics — all while maintaining fidelity to the “best interests” standard. This balance requires both analytical rigor and emotional intelligence. The judge must consider not only the letter of the law but also the lived realities of family life: the subtle interplay of attachment, consistency, and nurturing that cannot be captured solely in legal briefs or witness testimony.

The Psychological Dimension of Custody Adjudication

Modern custody litigation intersects deeply with psychology and child development science. Courts increasingly rely on insights from mental health professionals, guardians ad litem, and social workers to understand how parental conflict, relocation, or substance abuse may affect a child’s well-being. This interdisciplinary approach underscores that custody is not merely a legal construct but a psychosocial one. A truly just custody outcome must account for emotional continuity, attachment security, and the child’s evolving identity — concepts that demand both empirical understanding and judicial empathy.

The Role of the Parenting Plan as a Structural Safeguard

The statutory requirement for parenting plans in Georgia represents one of the most significant developments in family law over the past two decades. A parenting plan operationalizes abstract custody principles into practical, day-to-day frameworks. It specifies decision-making authority, visitation schedules, dispute resolution mechanisms, and parental responsibilities. From a jurisprudential standpoint, the parenting plan embodies the law’s aspiration to transform potential conflict into structured cooperation. In Roswell’s courts, judges view detailed, child-focused parenting plans as evidence of maturity, foresight, and parental goodwill.

The Ethics of Co-Parenting and the Moral Dimension of Custody

Beyond statutes and orders lies an ethical dimension: the moral duty of co-parenting. Georgia’s family law framework implicitly requires parents to act not as adversaries in litigation but as collaborators in the child’s upbringing. The concept of shared parental responsibility reflects a civic ideal — that the family unit, even when reconfigured by divorce, remains the bedrock of moral education and emotional security. Lawyers and judges in Roswell frequently emphasize that the most successful custody arrangements are not those that maximize one parent’s time but those that minimize the child’s trauma.

Custody Modification and the Doctrine of Changed Circumstances

Custody orders, though final in form, are inherently dynamic. Georgia law allows modification when a “material change in circumstances” affects the child’s welfare. This principle recognizes the fluidity of human life: jobs relocate, parents remarry, and children mature. Modification proceedings are thus a legal mechanism for rebalancing stability and adaptability. From a scholarly perspective, this doctrine embodies the law’s pragmatic realism — acknowledging that permanence in custody must coexist with flexibility in the face of life’s unpredictability.

The Imperative of Legal Representation and Procedural Fairness

Finally, no discussion of custody law is complete without recognizing the critical role of competent legal counsel. Custody cases involve intricate evidentiary rules, emotional complexities, and procedural nuances that can overwhelm even the most conscientious parent. In Roswell, where family court judges demand professionalism and precision, representation by an experienced child custody attorney from The Sherman Law Group ensures that a parent’s voice is articulated with clarity and authority. Effective advocacy transforms emotional narratives into legally compelling arguments — upholding both procedural fairness and substantive justice for the families of our community.

When You’re Working Hard and Just Want Fair Time with Your Kids

For many parents in Roswell, life isn’t easy. You work long hours, you pay your bills, and you try to do right by your kids. But when a custody dispute comes up, it can feel like the deck is stacked against you. Maybe your ex is saying things that aren’t true, or maybe you just don’t know how to navigate the court system. At The Sherman Law Group, we understand that good, hardworking people sometimes end up in tough situations. We fight to make sure your voice is heard and that your role as a parent is respected.

Fighting for What Really Matters — Your Kids

You might not have fancy degrees or a corner office, but you know what matters: your children. You’ve been there for them — changing diapers, doing school drop-offs, showing up for ball games, or making sure homework gets done. That counts. Don’t let anyone tell you it doesn’t. Our job as Roswell custody lawyers is to make sure the court sees what kind of parent you really are. We put in the time, effort, and heart to fight for your family’s future because we know what’s at stake.

When Money’s Tight and Stress Is High

Custody battles can be expensive and emotionally draining. If you’re worried about how you’re going to afford a lawyer while keeping up with rent or car payments, you’re not alone. We’ve worked with plenty of folks who are doing their best just to make ends meet. At The Sherman Law Group, we believe every parent deserves strong legal representation — not just the wealthy. We work hard to find practical solutions and fair outcomes so you can move forward with your life and your kids.

You Don’t Have to Be Perfect — You Just Have to Care

Too many parents think they have to be perfect to win custody. That’s not true. The courts look at who’s putting in the effort, who’s stable, and who’s got the child’s best interests at heart. If you’re the one who’s been there — cooking dinner after a long day, helping with homework, showing love and consistency — that matters. We help you tell that story the right way. You don’t need to be a saint; you just need to be a good parent. We’ll make sure the court sees that.

Standing Up and Taking Control of Your Future

At the end of the day, child custody isn’t just about legal documents — it’s about your family, your pride, and your future. You’ve worked too hard to let someone else decide what kind of parent you are. Whether you’re a mechanic, a teacher, a nurse, or a construction worker, you deserve a fair shot. The Sherman Law Group stands shoulder to shoulder with parents like you. We’ll fight for your rights, your time, and your children — because your family is worth it.

When You Feel Like No One’s Listening

Sometimes it feels like nobody’s really hearing your side — not your ex, not the court, not even the system. You show up, you do your part, and yet it seems like everyone’s got an opinion about how you should raise your kids. At The Sherman Law Group, we take the time to listen. We make sure the court hears the truth — your truth. You’ve spent years putting food on the table and keeping your family together; you deserve a lawyer who’ll stand up and fight for you with that same energy.

The Stress Can Wear You Down — But You’re Not Alone

Divorce and custody fights can drain you. Between long shifts, bills, and the emotional toll, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling apart. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone in this. Every day, parents from all walks of life come to us — truck drivers, electricians, teachers, small business owners — people just like you. They’re scared, angry, and exhausted. We get it. We’ve helped thousands of Georgia parents through exactly what you’re facing. We’ll help carry that weight and get you back on your feet.

Real People, Real Families, Real Results

We’re not here to throw around fancy legal talk or sugarcoat things. We tell it straight. Child custody cases can be messy, emotional, and unfair. But with the right strategy and the right lawyers, you can win. We’ve seen parents walk out of court with tears in their eyes — not from fear, but from relief. Relief that they finally got to keep their relationship with their kids intact. That’s what drives us every single day at The Sherman Law Group — fighting for real people, real families, and real results.

Fighting for Your Kids Starts Today

If you’re a hardworking parent in Roswell or anywhere in North Fulton, and you’re tired of feeling pushed around by the system, now’s the time to take a stand. You don’t need to be rich, perfect, or politically connected — you just need someone in your corner who knows the law and knows how to fight.

At The Sherman Law Group, we’ve helped truck drivers, nurses, factory workers, teachers, and small business owners fight for custody and win. We understand what it’s like to work long hours, pay your bills, and still worry about losing your kids. That’s why we take your case personally — because family isn’t just a legal matter; it’s everything.

Call us today. Sit down with our experienced Roswell child custody attorneys. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and build a plan that protects what matters most — your children and your future.

Call The Sherman Law Group now — because your kids deserve a parent who won’t back down, and you deserve a lawyer who won’t either.

Parent’s Child Custody Checklist

A Practical Guide from The Sherman Law Group

Category

What You Should Do

1. Get Your Documents Together

Collect pay stubs, school records, report cards, medical records, and proof of where the child lives. These show stability and involvement.

2. Keep a Parenting Journal

Write down dates, times, and details of visits, calls, and activities with your kids. This becomes powerful evidence in court.

3. Stay Calm During Exchanges

Even when your ex tries to provoke you, stay respectful and calm. Judges take note of maturity and control.

4. Avoid Bad-Mouthing the Other Parent

Don’t insult or argue in front of your children. Courts value parents who support a positive relationship between the child and the other parent.

5. Keep Your Home Child-Friendly

Make sure your home is clean, safe, and has a proper space for your child to sleep, play, and study.

6. Stay Involved in School

Attend parent-teacher conferences, sports games, and performances. Active participation shows commitment.

7. Follow All Court Orders

Always comply with visitation schedules, temporary orders, and child support obligations — even if you disagree with them.

8. Don’t Rely on Verbal Agreements

Get everything in writing. Texts and casual promises can be disputed later.

9. Communicate Responsibly

Keep texts and emails civil and short. Assume the judge might read every message one day.

10. Watch Your Social Media

Don’t post about your case, your ex, or your personal life. Social media is often used against parents in court.

11. Maintain Steady Employment

Consistent work shows responsibility and stability — both are key factors in custody decisions.

12. Be on Time — Always

Late pickups, missed visits, and no-shows hurt your credibility in front of a judge.

13. Avoid Alcohol or Drugs

Don’t drink or use any substances around your children or before court hearings. Judges take this extremely seriously.

14. Line Up Witnesses

Teachers, neighbors, coaches, and family members who’ve seen you parenting can testify on your behalf.

15. Take Parenting Classes (Voluntarily)

Shows initiative and responsibility. Even if not court-ordered, it can impress the judge.

16. Document the Other Parent’s Misconduct (Carefully)

Keep records or screenshots if the other parent violates orders — but don’t stalk or provoke them.

17. Don’t Move Without Legal Advice

Relocating can complicate your case. Talk to your attorney before changing your address.

18. Keep Communication with Your Lawyer Honest

Tell your lawyer everything — even things that make you look bad. Surprises in court hurt your case.

19. Prepare for a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Interview

Be respectful and cooperative. Focus on your child’s needs, not your ex’s faults.

20. Take Care of Yourself

Eat well, rest, and stay strong. A healthy, stable parent is better positioned to win custody and provide for their child.

Bottom Line:

Custody cases aren’t won by luck — they’re won by preparation, patience, and persistence. Every small, responsible action you take adds up to a stronger case. At The Sherman Law Group, we help hardworking parents in Roswell and elsewhere build custody strategies that work — because your children deserve a secure, loving future.

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