Gavel Insight

📌 Understanding Custody Laws in Georgia Georgia law recognizes two types of custody: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody gives a parent the right to make important decisions regarding the child's health, education, and welfare. Physical custody determines where the child resides. 🔹 Types of Custody Arrangements: - Sole Custody: One parent has primary legal and physical custody. - Joint Custody: Both parents share responsibilities. This can be joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both. 🔹 How Courts Determine Custody: Courts in Georgia prioritize the best interests of the child, evaluating factors such as: ✔ Parental stability and mental health ✔ Each parent's involvement in the child's life ✔ Child’s preference (if 14 or older) ✔ Any history of abuse or neglect 🏛 Navigating Child Support Obligations Georgia follows the Income Shares Model, meaning both parents contribute to a child's financial well-being. The total support amoun...

📌 Defining Parental Responsibilities in Missouri In Missouri, parental responsibilities encompass the legal duties and rights that parents have toward their children. These responsibilities include custody, visitation, financial support, and decision-making in key areas such as education and healthcare. Courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining parental obligations, ensuring a stable and nurturing environment. ⚖️ Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody Missouri law differentiates between two primary types of custody: 1️⃣ Legal Custody – Grants a parent the authority to make significant decisions regarding the child's upbringing, including education, religion, and medical care. Joint legal custody is common, allowing both parents to participate in decision-making. 2️⃣ Physical Custody – Determines where the child resides and which parent provides day-to-day care. Courts may grant joint physical custody, allowing the child to spend time with both parents, or sol...