Clear, simple explanations of Georgia family law topics — free and accessible to everyone.
Browse by topic below. Each section links to video playlists that break down divorce, custody, child support, protective orders, and more — so you can find answers that matter to your case.
Clear answers, organized by the issues that matter most.
The GA.law Video Library is organized by topic to help you quickly find the answers you need about family law in Georgia. Each section includes clear explanations of the law, with links to watch on YouTube or Rumble. Playlists make it easy to explore related videos, and Rumble links are included as a backup so the content remains accessible even if removed elsewhere.
Divorce Playlist
Divorce in Georgia is a legal process that ends a marriage and addresses issues such as property division, alimony, custody, and child support. Georgia allows both no-fault divorce (where one spouse claims the marriage is “irretrievably broken”) and fault-based divorce (such as adultery, cruelty, or desertion). The court will divide marital property through “equitable division,” which means a fair—not necessarily equal—split based on the circumstances of the case.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-5-3 (Grounds for divorce)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-5-7 (Alimony)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-5-13 (Division of property)
Custody Playlist
Child custody in Georgia is determined by the best interests of the child standard. Courts may award legal custody (decision-making authority), physical custody (where the child lives), or a combination. Joint custody is common, but one parent may be designated as the primary custodian. Children aged 14 and older may choose which parent they want to live with, subject to court approval. Parenting plans are required in most custody cases, ensuring that both parents’ responsibilities are clearly defined.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3 (Custody determination; best interests of the child)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-9-6 (Parenting plans)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-9-23 (Modification of custody)
Special Topics Playlist
This is a placeholder for spcial topics that will be addressed as they arise.
Alimony Playlist
Alimony, or spousal support, may be awarded in Georgia to provide financial assistance to a spouse after divorce. It is not automatic — the court considers factors such as the standard of living during the marriage, the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, and conduct of the parties. Alimony can be temporary (during the divorce) or permanent (after final judgment).
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-6-1 (Alimony generally)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-6-5 (Factors for determining alimony)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-6-19 (Modification of alimony)
Child Support Playlist
Georgia uses an “income shares model” to calculate child support, which considers both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and other factors such as health insurance and childcare costs. Courts may deviate from the guidelines if justified by the child’s best interests. Orders can be modified if there are significant changes in income or needs.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-6-15 (Child support guidelines and calculation)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-6-17 (Enforcement of child support orders)
Protective Order (TPOs) Playlist
Protective orders, often called Temporary Protective Orders (TPOs), are court orders that provide safety for victims of family violence or stalking. A TPO can order an abuser to stay away from the victim, move out of the home, and refrain from contact. These orders can last up to 12 months, with possible extensions or conversion into permanent orders.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-13-3 (Family Violence Protective Orders)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-13-4 (Relief available under protective orders)
- O.C.G.A. § 16-5-94 (Stalking protective orders)
Divorce Property Division Playlist
In divorce, Georgia follows the principle of equitable division of property. This means marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Courts consider contributions of each spouse, duration of the marriage, and the circumstances of each party. Property acquired before the marriage or through inheritance is generally considered separate property.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-3-9 (Separate vs. marital property)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-5-13 (Division of marital property in divorce)
Custody & Visitation Playlist
Visitation allows a noncustodial parent to spend time with their child according to a court-ordered parenting plan. Georgia courts prioritize the child’s best interests when setting visitation schedules, balancing stability with the importance of maintaining strong parental relationships. Courts may also impose restrictions if safety concerns exist.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3 (Visitation under custody determinations)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-9-7 (Grandparent visitation rights)
Contempt of Court and Enforcement Playlist
When a party fails to follow a court order—such as not paying child support or violating custody terms—the other party can file a motion for contempt. Courts have broad power to enforce orders, which can include fines, wage garnishment, suspension of licenses, or even jail time.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. § 19-6-28 (Enforcement of alimony and child support by contempt)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-6-33 (Wage garnishment for support obligations)
- O.C.G.A. Title 15, Ch. 6 (Superior court powers in contempt)
Court Procedures Playlist
Family law cases in Georgia follow specific procedures, beginning with the filing of a petition or complaint. Parties exchange information through discovery, may attend mediation, and eventually present their case in hearings or trials. The court ensures procedural fairness, but deadlines, filing requirements, and rules of evidence must be carefully followed to avoid negative consequences.
Key Statutes:
- O.C.G.A. Title 9 (Civil Practice Act – procedural rules)
- O.C.G.A. § 19-5-8 (Service of process in divorce actions)
- Georgia Uniform Rules of Superior Court (local procedures)
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