It Takes a Village: A Client’s Circle of Friends Can Impact a Custody Case

ReeceBy: Jessica Reece
HHCM Family Law

Individuals going through a divorce often think of it as a private concern between two adults. But when a court is looking at custody issues, and determining what is best for the children involved, the net may be cast wider than the immediate, nuclear family and many clients are not aware their personal lives could be so evaluated in open court and need to be advised accordingly early-on in the case.

The standard for custody pursuant to Georgia law is what is in the best interest of the child. Pursuant to statute, the judge may “take into consideration all the circumstances of the case . . . to look to and determine solely what is for the best interest of the child and what will best promote the child’s welfare and happiness.” OCGA Sec. 19-9-3. This term “circumstances” is read very broadly and includes more than the bond between parent and child or how many soccer games and parent teacher conferences each parent attends each year.

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The Practice Corner: The Importance of Knowing Your Web Identity

by Daniel DeWoskin
Trial Attorney
www.atlantatrial.com

The internet is forever. Many of us who are parents tell our children about this frequently and others of us plan to tell our children as they grow up. It is a lesson and caution that we know, if ignored, may result in rather unforgivable consequences. That picture that is taken in a spontaneous moment, that unfortunate “selfie,” once uploaded, cannot be taken back. Nothing will change the permanent nature of the internet, but we have the ability to engage in activity that will help take ownership of the information and properly frame it in a light that is more accurate.

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