AREAS OF PRACTICE
Divorce:
In the midst of the difficult and complex emotions which overwhelm those going through divorce, issues of property and debt division, child custody and visitation, alimony, taxation must also be addressed. Sullivan-Howell's goal in every divorce case is to bring the client through the roller coaster of emotions to reach a result which will allow the client to go forward from divorce with confidence and security. Child Custody:
Perhaps the most stressful kind of legal dispute involves child custody. Whether you are one seeking a change in custody for the best interest of your child(ren) or defending an action of this kind which has been filed against you, Ms. Sullivan-Howell is well equipped to be your--and the child(ren)'s--advocate, giving you the stellar representation which is so very crucial when the stakes are at their highest. Grandparents' Rights:
When a grandchild is at risk and grandparent intervention is necessary, you need a lawyer who understands the intricacies of this area of the law. Legitimation/Paternity:
Many people incorrectly believe that acknowledging paternity on hospital forms is enough to give a father legal rights to his child. If you are a father who has never filed a legal action for legitimation, you have no rights to visit with your child, and your child is not legally permitted to inherit from your estate should you die. We represent parents in paternity and legitimation actions. Child Support:
In 2007, a new Child Support Calculator was established by Georgia lawmakers as the required form for calculating child support in Georgia. This overhauled Georgia child support law contains many provisions which, if skillfully used, can greatly benefit children and their custodial parents. The converse is also true; there are nuances in the new law which can provide justified relief to those hardworking noncustodial parents who pay child support. If you are interested in exploring a child support modification on the basis of changed financial or other circumstances since the entry of a previous child support Order, look no further than The Sullivan Firm. Moreover, if you are a noncustodial parent who has seen your driver's license suspended, passport revoked, tax refunds intercepted, wages garnished, or bank account drained by the Office of Child Support Enforcement, call us for a consultation to discuss your rights. Domestic Violence Protective Orders:
When your physical safety is at stake, you need an attorney who will act quickly to get you the protection you need. The law provides avenues for restraining abusers from having any contact with family violence victims and their minor children. If you or someone you know is enduring physical abuse, we can help. Prenuptial Agreements:
If you are contemplating marriage and wish to establish each spouse's property rights and other expectations should the marriage ever end, we prepare prenuptial agreements tailored to your precise needs. Name Change:
Legal name change is often appropriate and sometimes necessary. We can walk you through the process. Adoption:
The adoption of a child, whether through infant adoption, stepparent adoption, or grandparent adoption ranks among the most momentous events of an adopting parent's life. You can trust our attorneys to assist you in the adoption process. Guardian ad Litem:
Especially in cases involving matters of child custody, guardians ad litem are often appointed to represent the children and serve an investigative role for the Court. Sullivan-Howell has served as guardian ad litem in the Southern Judicial Circuit and is available to serve, upon request and with the Court's appointment, as guardian ad litem in family law matters. Wills & Trusts:
The importance of getting your affairs in order for the sake of your loved ones should not be overlooked. Call us to schedule an estate planning consultation today. We offer estate planning packages on a convenient, flat fee schedule. Powers of Attorney:
A Power of Attorney is a wonderful legal tool designed to protect your financial security in the event of your incapacity. We can walk you through the reasons you may need a Power of Attorney and will advise you of the considerations attendant to your decision. Health Care Directives:
To prevent stress on your loved ones in the tragic event that you are incapacitated due to injury or illness and unable to communicate your desires as they pertain to your health care decisions, including those most difficult end-of-life decisions, many have wisely chosen to communicate their health care decisions in writing when planning their estates. We can explain to you the various considerations to keep in mind when selecting your health care agent(s) and help you communicate your wishes to your health care. Probate of Decedents' Estates:
When a loved one has passed away, you need legal representation when handling the deceased person's final affairs. Whether the person died with or without a Will, you must meet certain legal requirements related to dividing the person's estate.
