Being stuck at home for weeks at a time with the same person or group of people can be challenging for anyone. Even couples with a stable relationship and commendable communication skills are finding life in quarantine to be a bit straining. However, this has proven to be an especially troublesome time for spouses who were already struggling before COVID-19.
Though some of Georgia’s courts are temporarily closed during the pandemic, new cases may be filed and moved to a resolution remotely. The experienced divorce and family law attorneys at Anderson, Tate & Carr will guide you through the entire process virtually. You will receive all the advice you need along the way from the safety of your own home.
Filing for divorce always brings up a certain degree of emotional hardship and changes a family’s daily life, but there are unique challenges presented to married parents who decide to part ways during the pandemic. Here are a few things to consider before filing for divorce during COVID-19.
Greater Risks When Determining Child/Spousal Support
Now more than ever before, people are facing the harsh realities of job uncertainty. If you and your spouse have a child together, child and/or spousal support will be a factor in the equation of your divorce. In the event that you lose part or all of your income due to job cuts and furloughs, you will still be responsible for monthly support payments unless your agreement is modified and approved by a court order.
Child Visitation Is Considered an Essential Activity
On April 13, 2020, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp amended the state’s Shelter In Place order to include child visitation as an essential activity, in addition to other domestic relations activities. If you and your spouse separate or file for a divorce, you will be required to maintain the agreed-upon visitation schedule.
Co-Parenting May Be More Difficult
With altered summer schedules, limited activities, and learning how to communicate the protocols for staying safe during COVID-19, it’s crucial for divorced parents to be united in the eyes of their children. You can find tips for successful co-parenting during the pandemic here.
Are you considering filing for divorce in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic?
At Andersen, Tate & Carr, our attorneys are dedicated to reaching the best possible outcome for our clients. Trinity Hundredmark heads our Domestic Relations Division. She is an experienced attorney with more than a decade of experience representing clients. For more information, or to request a virtual case evaluation, contact our law office at 1-770-467-3205.