6 Common Questions About Child Support in Georgia

July 24, 2024

One of the hardest parts of divorce is dealing with child custody issues. According to statistics from Gitnux, nearly half of American children experience their parents getting divorced. If you live in the state of Georgia and are part of an estranged couple dealing with this issue, you may have some questions about the child support process. Here are common questions a divorce lawyer may receive about child support in Georgia.

1. How Long Will It Take to Establish a Case?

When it comes to establishing your child support case, don't expect it to happen overnight. According to the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Child Support Services has 20 calendar days to establish a case. Be aware that in some cases, courts may also have a backlog, so some counties may take a little longer. However, a good divorce lawyer may be able to speed things up.

2. When Will Payment Come?

It can be frustrating waiting on the first child support payment, as it may not happen immediately. Once the noncustodial parent's employer receives the income deduction order, the first payment will be sent to the Division of Child Support Services four to six weeks later, according to ACF. Therefore, it's important to understand that at least within the first month, you will likely not have child support to rely on and may have to make other adjustments.

3. What if the Noncustodial Parent Doesn’t Pay?

You may understandably be worried about the noncustodial parent not making payment, especially if your estrangement has been acrimonious. The state of Georgia will use as many legal means as possible to get compensation that the noncustodial parent is obligated to pay. The Division of Child Support Services can do automatic wage withholding, driver's and professional license suspension, tax refund, lottery interception, and referral to credit bureaus. If the noncustodial parent fails to meet their obligations, they can be held in contempt of court. In addition, continued failure to avoid paying child support can lead to jail time.

4. Can Unpaid Medical Bills for the Child Be Compensated?

Medical expenses can add up, especially for children. If you've had to pay for all your child's expenses out of your pocket, you have every right to also seek help from a noncustodial parent. The division of child support services will do what it can to help collect unpaid medical bills for the unpaid amount once a judgment has been authorized. Bring a copy of that judgment to your local child support office in Georgia. From there, the Office of Child Support can move forward.

5. How Does a Judge Decide the Child Support Amount?

There is no set number for child support payment. A decision on regular child support payments is based on the number of children involved, the amount of parental income on both ends, and anything related to the best interest of the child. For example, if children have long-standing medical issues, a judge will understand that the children will need additional care that also costs more money. However, if a child is close to turning 18, the amount of child support awarded will only be for a limited time.

6. Is Direct Deposit Available?

Yes, direct deposit is available, as long as you sign up online. However, funds won't be available immediately, as it takes time to process. Therefore, if you've been receiving a paper check or other deposit means, you may still have that method for the current month until direct deposit kicks in. If you prefer to not sign up online, you can do an offline application and include a copy of your check or deposit slip. Take these down to your local child support office to finish the application. However, submitting it online is much faster.

As you can see, there are many things to consider when getting child support. Going through a divorce is hard, but it's often harder on the children. That's why parents need to work together for the betterment of the child when possible. However, if you're a custodial parent fighting for the financial support of your children, you may need a good divorce lawyer to help you. We specialize in alimony, divorced families, child support, estate planning, and family law. Contact Gentry Law Firm LLC today for a consultation.

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Understanding Gray Divorce

November 9, 2025

Divorce can be challenging at any age, but when it occurs later in life, it can bring a unique set of emotional and financial considerations. As more couples over 50 choose to part ways, understanding the factors that make these cases distinct is essential for planning the next chapter with clarity and confidence. What Is “Gray Divorce”? The term gray divorce refers to couples who divorce after decades of marriage, often once children are grown or retirement is near. While the reasons for divorce vary — from growing apart to differences in goals, health, or finances — one thing is consistent: these cases often involve complex life circumstances that require thoughtful legal and financial guidance. Key Considerations in Gray Divorce 1. Financial Security and Retirement Assets After years of shared finances, dividing marital assets can be complicated. Retirement accounts, pensions, investment portfolios, and real estate are often central issues in a gray divorce. Ensuring each spouse’s long-term financial stability requires a careful look at income sources, tax implications, and future needs. 2. Health Insurance and Long-Term Care Older couples may face additional concerns about healthcare coverage, especially if one spouse depends on the other’s insurance. Planning for medical expenses and long-term care becomes a crucial part of settlement discussions. 3. Alimony In many gray divorces, one spouse left the workforce to raise a family or support the other’s career. Courts often consider the length of the marriage, earning potential, and financial need when determining alimony — with an emphasis on ensuring fairness and stability in later years. 4. Emotional and Family Dynamics Even when adult children are independent, divorce can have a ripple effect through the family. Adult children may experience divided loyalties, and shared traditions may shift. Counseling and open communication can help families adjust to the new dynamics with compassion. Building a Confident Future While divorce later in life can feel overwhelming, it also offers an opportunity for renewal — a chance to rediscover independence and personal goals. With the right guidance, you can make informed decisions that protect your financial health and emotional well-being. At Gentry Law Firm, our experienced family law team understands the sensitive and complex nature of gray divorce. We’re here to provide trusted solutions and supportive counsel every step of the way. Give us a call to speak about your situation today.

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