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Smith, Welch,
Webb & White

Family Law

Honest, realistic guidance through the financially and emotionally trying times of divorce cases, child custody cases, adoption, and more.
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What we offer

Family law matters do one of two things: they bring family members together or resolve disputes for parties wishing to live apart.  No matter what legal issue you are facing, Smith, Welch, Webb & White will walk with you every step of the way — our family law practice areas include divorce settlements, marital property, child custody, adoption cases, real estate property division, and more.

We know how to navigate the complicated legal process of litigating a divorce case or other family law issues. Both our experience in the courtroom and familiarity with the Judges assist us in creating a plan for fighting for your rights and for what is best for your children. While we take pride in our ability to reach amicable resolutions that help to minimize the animosity that can linger long after the divorce process, we offer the aggressive approach that is necessary when a case has to be decided by a Judge or Jury.

Here are examples of ways we handle family law cases:

01.

Divorce settlements

Divorce can put a strain on families, especially when children are involved. That’s why our divorce attorneys tailor every single pleading to the particular parties involved. We draft settlement agreements and parenting plans. Our legal advice covers specific issues, specific schedules, and family traditions. Everything is customized for you and your children.

What about family law firms that advertise $500 uncontested divorces on billboards? Don’t be fooled, it’s not that simple. That impersonal approach to divorce creates strife, uncertainty, and confusion between parties. That’s the last thing we want during an already tough time in one’s life. You deserve the best possible outcome and at Smith, Welch, Webb & White, our experienced family law attorneys will take care of you and your family.

Our family law attorneys have years of experience in divorce law. We have law offices in Stockbridge, McDonough, Jackson, Barnesville, Peachtree City, and Griffin. When filing for divorce in Georgia, you must adhere to the strict filing guidelines and prepare and submit the appropriate mandatory divorce documents to the county court.

In the State of Georgia, the grounds for divorce are either “fault” or “no-fault”. When filing for divorce, your divorce lawyer must declare the grounds for divorce. There are 13 grounds for divorce in the State of Georgia.

Our attorneys also specialize in issues relating to divorce:

  • Child custody
  • Child support
  • Visitation
  • Alimony

02.

We represent parents whose rights to their children have been terminated for whatever reason. Our legal representation gives these parents a voice and a sense of pride. They leave the courtroom knowing they are well-represented and their voices are heard. Our law firm will also represent grandparents who are fighting for visitation rights to their grandchildren.

03.

Our legal services guide adoptive parents and children through the adoption process. Nothing satisfies us more than watching a child light up when he or she becomes an official member of a family. At Smith, Welch, Webb & White we are familiar with every type of adoption, including those by step-parents, relatives, or people unrelated to a child.

Who may adopt a child in Georgia? An adult in Georgia may petition to adopt a child if they meet the following requirements:

  • At least 25 years of age or is married and living with his or her spouse
  • At least ten years older than the child
  • A Georgia resident for at least six months immediately before filing the petition
  • Financially, physically, and mentally able to have permanent custody of the child

Are there different types of adoption? Yes. Many individuals or couples want to adopt a child through an agency. Often, they may already know the child. Just several of the different types of adoption include:

  • Adoption by a step-parent or co-parent
  • Adoption by a relative
  • Interstate Compact (adoption of a child in one state by parents in another state)
  • Domestication of foreign adoptions (when an adoption is finalized in another country)

What happens during the adoption process? Georgia’s Department of Human Resources Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) will be involved. This typically involves:

  • A family assessment at your home
  • Training program and home visits conducted by DFCS (20 hours)
  • A lot of paperwork
  • Superior Court must approve your adoption petition

Additional family law areas

  • Alimony and spousal support
  • Annulments
  • Child custody and visitation
  • Child support
  • Child protection
  • Civil unions
  • Family Court
  • Foster care adoptions
  • Juvenile Court – Delinquency
  • Juvenile Court – Dependency
  • Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
  • Separation agreements
  • Visitation

Juvenile Law

Our firm represents parents, grandparents, and third parties involved in family deprivation cases. Our attorneys also serve quite frequently as guardian ad litem on behalf of the children involved in these types of legal matters. We also offer a full range of criminal defense services to children who have been charged in juvenile court in matters ranging from traffic offenses to serious felony cases.

Our Team

Attorneys Serving this Area

Elizabeth P. O’Neal

Partner

Brooke A. White

Partner

Jacob Barlar

Associate

Morgan R. Thomas

Associate

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We are Always
Here for You

No matter your legal need, our family law attorneys can help guide your family through difficult times. Call us at 1.855.505.SWWW (7999) to schedule your initial consultation or case evaluation.

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Map of all locations in Georgia: McDonough, Stockbridge, Jackson, Barnesville, Peachtree City, and Griffin
Client Success Stories

Hear from Those We Have Helped

Woman taking notes
“Many of us who seek the assistance of an attorney are going through a very difficult, uncertain, and trying time. When I walked into Mrs. Elizabeth O’Neal’s office for a consult, I was very anxious. After our meeting I felt a large burden had been lifted off my shoulders. I finally found a STRONG, COMPASSIONATE, and ETHICAL lawyer. Throughout the entire process I knew I could trust her to do what was right for my family.”
- David P.
“I recommend this firm to anyone needing a representative for personal injury. They were fast and most important available to the phone every time I needed to converse and or get an update. My attorneys were knowledgeable of the law and kept me in the loop the entire process.”
- Kimberly B.
“A special thank you to Mr. Orion Webb and his paralegal Ms. Suzanne McGuire for their assistance and expertise. Their professionalism, honesty and hard work ethic on my behalf was truly appreciated! I would highly recommend Smith Welch Webb & White, LLC for assisting in any legal matters that should arise. They will do their utmost to ensure a favorable outcome on your behalf.”
- Judy P.
“I am extremely happy with my experience with these folks.They understood my situation and walked me through everything with care. They were honest, knowledgeable and made my difficult situation much easier on me.They did a great job!”
- Jason K.
“I have nothing but high praise for Andrew Gebhardt and his paralegal Stacey Waters. Not only did they stay in touch with me on a timely basis they also got me a great a great settlement. If you want a law firm that does have your best interest at heart, they are who you are looking for.”
- John C.
“An excellent firm I would highly recommend. Their attorneys offer a variety in law. The support staff is knowledgeable and very competent! You can't go wrong with this firm.”
- Nancy T.