It is normally a good idea to consult with a Domestic Relations lawyer about any major life event or change, such as a contested or uncontested divorce, adoption of a child or placement of a child for adoption, child abuse matters, child support modifications, child visitation and custody, being accused of or a victim of domestic violence, elder law, juvenile law, probate or other major family law issue.

Burroughs Johnson Hopewell helps guide families through, what is often, an intimidating, difficult legal system. Whether it’s planning for the future or navigating through conflict, BJH has experience achieving a positive resolution for families when they need it most. There is absolutely no salesmanship or pressure put upon you to file papers. Meetings are strictly confidential.

• Divorce
  
• Paternity
  
• Prenuptial Agreements
  
• Custody
  
• Child Support
  
• Property Division
  
• Income Determination
  
• Business Valuation

The goal of the Burroughs Johnson Hopewell is to provide prompt legal services in all cases. We believe that Domestic Relations issues such as division of marital assets, alimony, child support, child custody and visitation can and should be addressed privately and in a dignified and non-confrontational fashion whenever possible, and will work aggressively toward a positive settlement.

Important Definitions in Georgia Domestic Relations Law:

Paternity – Paternity establishes the identity of the Father of a child. Children born to unwed persons do not automatically have a legal Father without a Paternity action establishing the identity of the Father, whether agreed or contested.
Reasons to Establish Paternity:

• Identity: To provide the child with a needed identity.
  
• Health: It is important to know the health history of both the Mother and Father for medical care and treatment of the child.
  
• Support: It takes two to fairly support a child in today's world to the extent of their ability.
  
• Benefits: Establishing Paternity allows the child to be covered by
  health insurance, social security, inheritance and veteran's benefits.
  
• Public Assistance: Paternity also means the parties can seek public assistance where they qualify.

Prenuptial Agreements - A prenuptial agreement, or a premarital agreement, is a written contract created by two individuals who plan to be married. This agreement lists all individually owned property, such as homes and businesses, family assets, stocks and bonds, savings accounts as well as debts, and specifies what will and will not remain individually owned property after the legalization of marriage. Prenuptial agreements also specify whether spousal support will be paid in the event of a divorce, and the intentions regarding distribution of individually owned property upon death.

Custody - The charge and control of a child including the right to make all major decisions such as education, religious upbringing, training, health and welfare. Custody, without qualification, usually refers to a combination of physical custody and legal custody.

Child Support - This court order refers to a parent's legal obligation to contribute to the economic maintenance and education of children. This obligation is enforceable both criminally and civilly.

Property Division - Marital property attained during the marriage, regardless of whose name it is under can be divided. Marital property can include real estate (including a home bought in contemplation of a marriage), a pension plan, vehicles, bank accounts, income tax refund and/or household furnishings. Property that is inherited by one spouse is not considered marital property.

Income Determination - By carefully examining your debts, bills and income, BJH Domestic Relations attorneys can determine how much support you are able to pay involving alimony, child support and in pre- and post- nuptials.

Business Valuation - Determining what your business is worth is a critical part of protecting your future. A business valuation report shows what someone else will pay for your business. Although no business valuation estimate is as accurate or meaningful as an offer to purchase, BJH is experienced at providing a complete report of your business worth.

Divorce - A Georgia divorce, or dissolution of marriage, can be filed in Georgia by either spouse to end the marital relationship. Upon completion of a Georgia divorce, the parties are restored back to single status. The court will also issue any necessary orders for child support and custody, alimony (spousal support) and the division of News & Events and separate assets and debts.