Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm

Augusta Child Custody Lawyer – Protecting Your Relationship With Your Child

Fighting for Your Parental Rights

When it comes to your children, nothing matters more than staying involved and protecting their well-being. At Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm, we know how emotional and stressful custody disputes can be. Our priority is to secure a custody arrangement that serves your child’s best interests while fiercely defending your relationship and parental rights—whether you’re a mother or father.

Types of Custody in Georgia

Georgia law recognizes two main types of custody:

Legal Custody

The right to make major decisions about your child’s upbringing, such as education, health care, and religious instruction. Legal custody can be joint (shared by both parents) or sole (one parent makes the decisions).

Physical Custody

Where your child lives on a daily basis. Physical custody may be joint (the child spends significant time with both parents) or primary (the child mainly lives with one parent, while the other has visitation).

Most Georgia courts prefer joint legal custody, but physical custody arrangements can vary widely based on what’s best for the child.

Best Interests of the Child Standard

All custody decisions in Georgia are based on what serves the child’s best interests. Courts consider a range of factors, including:


  • Each parent’s home environment and ability to care for the child
  • The mental and physical health of each parent
  • The child’s ties to school, community, and siblings
  • Each parent’s willingness to foster a healthy relationship with the other parent
  • Any history of abuse or neglect
  • The child’s preference (if age 14 or older, Georgia law allows them to choose their primary physical custodian)



We gather and present evidence that shows why your proposed arrangement supports your child’s happiness and stability.

Our Approach to Child Custody Cases

We know that every custody case is deeply personal and demands a thoughtful, strategic approach. Our first step is helping you develop a detailed, Georgia-compliant parenting plan that covers schedules, holidays, decision-making, communication, transportation, and how you’ll resolve future disagreements. We tailor each plan to your family’s real-life needs, working to build consensus if parents can cooperate—but when that’s not possible, we advocate for your goals in court with determination.


Life rarely stands still, and custody arrangements sometimes need to change. If you or your child’s circumstances shift—like a parent relocating, a job change, or a new concern about your child’s wellbeing—we guide you through the process to modify your custody order. If your co-parent isn’t following the agreement, we move swiftly to enforce your rights through the courts.



Above all, we believe every parent deserves a voice. Whether you’re a father fighting for fair treatment or a mother seeking to protect your child, Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm stands firmly by your side.

Contact an Augusta Child Custody Attorney Today

Custody decisions shape your child’s future—and yours. Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm stands ready to guide you through negotiations, court hearings, modifications, or enforcement, always prioritizing your child’s best interests. Start with a free, private consultation.

Commonly Asked Questions

Child Custody FAQs

  • Can my child choose which parent to live with?

    In Georgia, children 14 and older have the right to select their primary physical custodian, though the court must still approve that choice as being in the child’s best interests.

  • What if we can’t agree on a parenting plan?

    We advocate for your position in negotiations and, if necessary, in court—always focusing on what’s best for your child.

  • How do I modify a custody order?

    You can seek modification if there’s a significant change in circumstances. We’ll guide you through the process.

  • Can I enforce a custody order if my ex won’t cooperate?

    Yes. We pursue enforcement through the courts, using contempt or other legal remedies.

  • Does the court favor mothers over fathers in Georgia?

    No. Georgia law treats both parents equally—what matters is the child’s best interests. We protect the rights of both mothers and fathers.