Georgia Equitable Caregiver Lawyers
The Georgia Equitable Caregiver Act, which was passed in 2019, gives third-party, non-family members such as stepparents the ability to seek standing to establish custody or visitation rights when they have acted as a parent or equitable caregiver to a child. Prior to the passing of the statute, Georgia only recognized biological relatives as caregivers and not stepparents.
The Equitable Caregiver Act opens the door for LGBTQ+ individuals who were unable to marry but were involved in raising children to seek standing to maintain relationships with their children. Laws regarding stepparents and non-biological caregivers are still developing nationwide and interpretation of the law in Georgia continues to evolve; therefore, it is important to seek representation from a family law attorney with experience in this area. Our managing partner, Denise VanLanduyt, was involved in reviewing drafts of the legislation that passed here in Georgia and has successfully represented clients seeking custody or visitation rights. Likewise, our attorneys can provide assistance if you are defending a claim raised under this act. As in all situations, the court will consider what is in the best interest of a child before granting Equitable Caregiver status.
We Can Help
If you are seeking custody or visitation rights under the Equitable Caregiver Act, our attorneys can assist in reviewing your situation to determine if you have a case under this new law.
