Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia

custody without court?

My husband and I are hoping to gain custody of his 3 yr old daughter. Currently, there are no custody arrangements. He and his ex were never married. Although it is not court ordered, he has been paying child support since he and his ex broke up. We are going about establishing paternity and legitimation. The mother is homeless and a cocaine addicted, among other problems, so gaining custody will not be hard. However, we can't afford a lawyer (the cheapest one we have found was still over $5000). Is there any other way to gain custody without involving child services? We do not meet the 125% poverty level for legal aid or other free legal programs. Any suggestions or advice, please let me know!


Asked on 9/17/02, 10:09 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles W. Field Charles W. Field, Attorney at Law

Re: custody without court?

You might check with your local bar association. They may have a listing of local attorneys who will do "pro bono" (free) cases.

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Answered on 9/17/02, 2:01 pm
Pearlie Bush

Re: custody without court?

Fulton County Family Law Center offers forms for a small fee to assist you in filing your custody petition. You must first complete the legitimation process before filing for custody. The forms are very simple, but I still suggest the assistance of local counsel to aid in drafting them.

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Answered on 9/17/02, 3:32 pm


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