Frances handles all aspects of family law: divorce, custody/visitation, child support, adoption, legitimization and paternity, and modifications of child support and custody.

Divorce

Undoubtedly, divorce can be a difficult time for everyone involved. There are countless decisions to be made that will affect the future for years to come. Divorce can be an emotionally charged process where decisions are made from feeling rather than reason. A bitter and drawn-out divorce can be expensive and have lifetime consequences. Frances focuses on helping a family to resolve matters through mediation rather than court, where the potential for emotional devastation is high. She believes that it is the children's voices that matter the most. She works with clients to understand the actions and motivations of all involved as a means of resolution. In her experience, most clients have been able to come to amicable terms with little to no modifications needed in the subsequent years. Frances understands the long-term consequences involved in family law and strives to provide families with the best legal advice to ensure positive outcomes.

Custody / Visitation

Frances works with families to put the needs of children first when determining custody and visitation rights. Whether it’s an initial custody decision or a modification of an existing arrangement, we work closely with families to make decisions in the best interests of children. Allowing for open and positive lines of communication not only makes a smoother transition for children, but also sets a positive foundation for decision making long after a divorce.

Child Support

Determining the economical needs of children in a new custody situation can be challenging. It is important to consider not only the basics (food, shelter), but also all costs associated with children—school, extracurricular activities, day care expenses, medical/insurance costs, etc. Frances is happy to help families navigate through the series of decisions and compromises necessary to ensure that children are given the financial support they need.

Adoption

Adoption is an exciting time for a family and Frances is pleased to work with families to ensure a smooth process. Please contact our office to learn more about Georgia’s adoption procedure.

Legitimation and Paternity

In Georgia, legitimation allows the father of a child born out of wedlock to be recognized as the father by law. Paternity establishes the biological connection of being a father, but it does not establish the legal connection. For any issues related to paternity or legitimation, please contact our office.

Frances has extensive experience working in the Glynn County juvenile court system and is often called upon for legal issues concerning juveniles. In any case involving children, Frances is passionate about advocating for their needs and best interests. Often these cases in Juvenile Court involve working with the Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS).

Guardian ad litem

Frances serves regularly as a guardian ad litem, the person a court appoints to represent the best interests of a child in a divorce or parental rights and responsibilities case. It is her responsibility to investigate the family situation and provide counsel to the court about where the child should live and what type of contact is appropriate with parents.

Dependency/Deprivation

Frances represents parents and/or the extended family in cases of child dependency. A deprived child may be defined as one who is without proper parental care, education, or care for his physical, mental or emotional health. Also, a child who has been placed for care or adoption in violation of law, or has been abandoned by parents or guardian, or one who does not have a parent, guardian or custodian, can be considered to be a deprived child. Often these cases in Juvenile Court involve working with the Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS).

Foster Parent Representation

Frances represents foster parents in navigating the dependency process in Juvenile Court. She aides in assisting the foster parents in gaining permanency for the child or children.

Family Representation

Frances represents extended family members who have an interest in the child who is in the Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS) care and custody. She assists them in gaining permanency for the children.

Guardianships for Minors and Incapacitated Adults

Frances can represent you in probate matters to include guardianships of minor children and incapacitated adults. Please contact our office for more information.