Divorce and Custody Lawyer in DeKalb County, Georgia

From Decatur, Brookhaven and Dunwoody to Tucker, Stone Mountain, Lithonia and Stonecrest, DeKalb County families handle divorce and custody cases in DeKalb County Superior Court in downtown Decatur. Atlanta Family Law Group has represented Georgia families since 2009, and we serve DeKalb County clients from our Atlanta office in divorce, custody, child support and modification cases.

Family Law Services for DeKalb County Clients

Divorce, both contested and uncontested
Child custody and parenting plans
Child support and child support modifications
Custody modifications
Legitimation and paternity
Alimony and property division
Contempt and enforcement

How Family Cases Work in DeKalb County Superior Court

Divorce, custody, legitimation, support modification and contempt cases are heard in DeKalb County Superior Court, 556 N. McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030. The courthouse is near the Decatur MARTA station.

DeKalb has some of the most detailed local requirements in metro Atlanta:

Standing Order Governing All Domestic Cases. This order applies to every DeKalb domestic case. Among other things, it prohibits harassment, removing children from the court’s jurisdiction, transferring assets outside the ordinary course of business, cutting off utilities, and changing insurance or beneficiaries. It also requires parenting plans. Both spouses are bound by it, so understanding it early protects you and your assets.
“Families in Transition” parenting seminar. In cases involving children under 18, parties must complete the online Families in Transition seminar within 31 days of service. Missing the deadline can lead to contempt or sanctions.
Mediation in contested custody cases. When custody is contested, the standing order requires a good-faith attempt at mediation. The DeKalb County Courts Dispute Resolution Center handles domestic mediation, and family violence cases go through a confidential screening to decide whether mediation is appropriate.
Financial documents before mediation and hearings. Financial affidavits and child support worksheets must be exchanged at least 10 days before mediation or a hearing. These documents drive child support, alimony and property outcomes, so they need to be accurate and complete.
Paperless court. DeKalb Superior Court uses mandatory electronic filing through eFileGA.

Why DeKalb County Clients Choose Atlanta Family Law Group

DeKalb’s standing order and early document deadlines leave little room for error. We help clients comply from day one, prepare complete financial disclosures, and walk into mediation with a clear plan for custody, support and property. The firm has more than 100 five-star reviews, and our founding attorney has been selected to Super Lawyers.

DeKalb County Divorce and Custody FAQs

Where do I file for divorce in DeKalb County?

Divorce cases are filed with the DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk and heard at 556 N. McDonough Street, Decatur. Attorneys file electronically through eFileGA.

What does the DeKalb domestic standing order mean for me?

Once a case is filed, both parties must follow the standing order’s rules on conduct, children, assets, utilities and insurance while the case is pending. Violations can be enforced through contempt.

When do I have to complete the parenting seminar in DeKalb?

Within 31 days of service, in cases involving children under 18. The Families in Transition seminar is offered online.

Is mediation required in DeKalb County?

When custody is contested, the standing order requires a good-faith attempt at mediation. The court’s Dispute Resolution Center screens cases involving family violence before mediation goes forward.

How is child support calculated in Georgia?

Georgia uses an income shares model that considers both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, and costs such as health insurance and work-related child care. Each party submits a child support worksheet, and a judge may deviate from the guideline amount in some circumstances.

Schedule a Case Evaluation

If you are facing divorce or a custody case in DeKalb County, schedule a case evaluation or call 404-205-8669. We serve DeKalb County clients from our office at 101 Marietta Street NW, Suite 3625, Atlanta, GA 30303, and offer virtual consultations.

This page provides general information about DeKalb County procedures and is not legal advice. Court rules and procedures change; confirm current requirements with the court or your attorney.