A few days ago the New York Times published yet another article addressing the dramatic rise in Child Support Enforcement/Modification cases that are beginning to inundate the Countries civil courtrooms. Georgia's unemployment rate now rests at 9.3% and is predicted to rise above 10% before the end of the year Georgia, where the unemployment rate is predicted to rise to over ten (10)%) percent before the end of 2009. These figures don't even begin to reflect individuals who are under-employed, earning far less today, then they did 12 to 24 months ago. Based on anecdotal evidence, the conversations I have been having with other members of the Georgia Divorce Bar point to inescapable fact that Georgia is also facing an explosion in Modification and Contempt actions. While I wrote about this phenomenon three months ago in a previous post, describing the methodology for obtaining a Modification of Child Support, I do not think I truly comprehended the enormity of the financial problems facing our community and the concurrent effects it is placing on non-custodial parents.
However, I have found what I consider to be a small sliver lining. In the last several months I am also seeing a rise in the number of legitimation cases. This is the process whereupon a father claims a child or children as legally his, and seeks either custodial rights or a formal visitation plan. Although the impetus behind this increase is likely the lowering of child support payments, anything that encourages both parents to spend more time with their children has to be seen as a positive turn of events.
I will keep my eye on the future impact of the economy on my Divorce Practice and will report back any observations. Obviously, if you have any questions or concerns about your own matter give SHAPIRO LAW GROUP a call at 770.604.9292 or send me an e-mail if you want to discuss the specifics of your matter. We give free pone consultations and are always willing to speak with new potential clients.
However, I have found what I consider to be a small sliver lining. In the last several months I am also seeing a rise in the number of legitimation cases. This is the process whereupon a father claims a child or children as legally his, and seeks either custodial rights or a formal visitation plan. Although the impetus behind this increase is likely the lowering of child support payments, anything that encourages both parents to spend more time with their children has to be seen as a positive turn of events.
I will keep my eye on the future impact of the economy on my Divorce Practice and will report back any observations. Obviously, if you have any questions or concerns about your own matter give SHAPIRO LAW GROUP a call at 770.604.9292 or send me an e-mail if you want to discuss the specifics of your matter. We give free pone consultations and are always willing to speak with new potential clients.
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