Atlanta Child Custody Attorney

Q: What is the difference between legal and physical custody in Georgia?

Legal custody grants a parent the right to make major decisions about the child's life, including matters of education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Physical custody determines where the child lives and which parent is responsible for their daily care. In most Atlanta child custody cases , parents share joint legal custody even if one parent has primary physical custody. Learn more about the difference between legal and physical custody in this blog post.

Q: What is a parenting plan, and is it required for my Atlanta child custody case?

Yes, a detailed parenting plan is a mandatory requirement in all Georgia child custody cases. This legal document outlines how both parents will share responsibilities and co-parent moving forward. A comprehensive plan typically includes a specific visitation schedule for weekends and holidays, as well as a clear framework for how parents will handle communication and decision-making. Learn more about parenting plans here.

Q: Can a child in Georgia choose which parent to live with?

According to Georgia child custody laws , a child who is 14 years or older has the legal right to state a preference to the court regarding which parent they want to live with. However, the judge is not bound by this choice and will still make the final decision based on what is in the child's best interests. Learn more

Experienced Atlanta Child Custody Attorneys: Safeguarding Your Family’s Future

Atlanta Child Custody Attorney

Child custody disputes can be emotionally taxing and legally intricate. At Naggiar & Sarif, our dedicated Atlanta child custody attorneys are committed to guiding you through every phase, protecting your parental rights and prioritizing your child’s well-being. With over two decades of family law expertise, we’ve supported families throughout Atlanta in resolving custody disputes, creating parenting plans, and addressing visitation issues with care and precision.

Whether you’re navigating a divorce, seeking to modify an existing custody order, or tackling multi-state jurisdictional challenges, our team delivers personalized solutions. Contact us today at (404) 816-2004 or complete the online contact form below to schedule a confidential consultation..

Why Choose Naggiar & Sarif for Your Child Custody Case?

At Naggiar & Sarif, we recognize the uniqueness of every family. Our client-focused approach blends legal expertise with compassion to secure the best outcomes. Here’s what distinguishes our Atlanta family law attorneys:

Proven Expertise: Founding partners Danny Naggiar and David Sarif bring decades of experience in complex custody cases, earning accolades such as Super Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent rating.
Tailored Strategies: We design individualized parenting plans that address physical and legal custody, visitation schedules, and decision-making responsibilities to suit your family’s needs.
Skilled Negotiation & Litigation: We strive for amicable resolutions through mediation but are fully equipped to advocate vigorously in court when necessary.
Confidential Support: We provide confidential support, particularly for high-profile clients, ensuring your privacy throughout the process.
Community Commitment: Our attorneys volunteer at the Georgia State Veteran’s Clinic and speak at legal education events, reflecting our dedication to excellence in family law.

Understanding Child Custody in Georgia

Georgia law centers on the child’s best interests in custody decisions, as outlined in O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3. Our Atlanta child custody attorneys simplify the process by explaining key elements:

Physical Custody: Defines where the child resides and the time allocated to each parent, often referred to as “parenting time” rather than “visitation.”
Legal Custody: Covers decision-making authority for education, healthcare, religion, and extracurricular activities, which may be sole or joint.
Parenting Plans: Required by Georgia courts, these plans detail custody schedules, communication guidelines, and support obligations.

Courts evaluate factors such as each parent’s relationship with the child, their ability to provide a stable environment, and their willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. Our attorneys present your case effectively, whether collaborating with a Guardian ad Litem or addressing complex issues like family violence or substance abuse.

Our Process: Handling Child Custody Cases

We follow a clear, step-by-step approach to resolve your custody case efficiently:

Initial Consultation: We listen to your objectives, evaluate your case, and clarify your rights under Georgia law.
Case Strategy: We develop a customized plan, utilizing mediation, collaborative law, or litigation as needed.
Parenting Plan Development: We create a detailed plan covering custody, visitation, and support arrangements. Learn more in this blog post.
Negotiation or Court Advocacy: We pursue settlements to avoid trials when possible but are prepared to represent you in court if required.
Ongoing Support: We assist with modifications or enforcement of custody orders as circumstances evolve.

Our aim is to reduce stress while achieving a fair resolution for you and your child.

Complex Custody Issues We Address

Our Atlanta child custody attorneys are equipped to handle challenging cases, including:

Multi-state or international custody disputes under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) or Hague Convention.
High-conflict custody cases involving allegations of abuse or substance issues.
Modifications to existing custody orders due to relocation or changed circumstances.
Custody matters for military families, drawing on Danny Naggiar’s military experience.

Meet Our Expert Atlanta Child Custody Attorneys

About Danny Naggiar:

Danny Naggiar, a managing partner of Naggiar & Sarif in Atlanta, is a distinguished child custody attorney known for his strategic approach to complex disputes. Originally from Miami Beach, Florida, he graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Economics from Tulane University and earned his J.D. from Georgia State University, where he served as an Associate Editor of the Law Review. Renowned for his compassionate yet assertive advocacy, Naggiar excels in developing parenting plans, negotiating agreements, and litigating high-conflict custody cases across Georgia. Read full bio and credentials.

Top Recognitions: Consistently named a Super Lawyers “Top 100 Attorney” in Georgia (2010-2024), honored by Best Lawyers in America, and listed in Georgia Trend Magazine’s Legal Elite for family law.
Legal Contributions: Frequent speaker at child custody and family law seminars nationwide and co-founder of Naggiar & Sarif, recognized as a U.S. News and World Report Best Law Firm for custody cases.
Media Presence: Featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Family Lawyer Magazine, and ESPN Outside the Lines for his expertise in child custody and parenting plan disputes.
Professional Honors: Recipient of Fulton County Daily Report’s “On the Rise” award and a member of the Georgia Bar Association’s Family Law Section, showcasing his leadership in child custody law.

Attorney Danny Naggiar About David Sarif:

David Sarif, a founding partner at Naggiar & Sarif in Atlanta, is a highly esteemed child custody attorney with a notable career in family law. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, and raised in Atlanta, he earned a BBA from the University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business and a J.D. from Georgia State University College of Law, receiving the CALI Award in Securities, Interests, and Liens. With extensive experience as a trial attorney, mediator, arbitrator, and Guardian ad Litem, Sarif is celebrated for his expertise in resolving complex custody disputes and multi-state jurisdictional matters. Read full bio and credentials.

Top Recognitions: Named “Lawyer of the Year” for Family Law by Best Lawyers in America, featured in U.S. News and World Report, and selected as a Super Lawyers “Top 100 Attorney” in Georgia multiple years (2009-2024).
Legal Contributions: Adjunct professor at John Marshall Law School, author of articles like “Navigating Parenting Plans in Georgia Custody Cases” for the Georgia Bar Family Law Review, and a frequent speaker at national CLE conferences on child custody.
Media Presence: Quoted in CBS Atlanta, Family Lawyer Magazine, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, with appearances in OK Magazine for his insights on custody law.
Professional Honors: Georgia Trend Magazine’s Legal Elite, Fulton County Daily Report’s “On the Rise” award, and a fellow of the American Bar Foundation (top 1% of attorneys).

Trusted by Atlanta Families During Life’s Most Important Moments

Choosing the right child custody attorney matters. See how Naggiar & Sarif has helped parents across Atlanta protect their rights, resolve disputes, and create parenting plans that serve their children’s best interests.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 143 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Erica Suesserman 
 22 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David was appointed as our GAL in a highly contentious divorce involving a complicated custody dispute. Throughout the process, his focus remained squarely on my four children and their best interests, rather than on either parent's position. I consistently found him to be fair and empathetic, and I was grateful that he brought a sense of humor to what was an incredibly difficult time. Maintaining custody of my children was the most important part of my divorce and my greatest asset... Nothing else mattered more than this, and the way he conducted his investigation over several months made us all feel seen and heard.
You can tell that David is a good person who truly cares about the families he is serving - although I hope to never be in a situation to ever work with him again (ha!), I would hire him in a heartbeat.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Melanie Gilley 
 28 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Will (Davis) did a great job staying in touch with my throughout my divorce proceedings.  He also "talked me off the ledge" a few times.  Will did all he could to make a difficult  process as painless as possible.  I highly recommend him.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   D Waterz 
 162 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Going through a divorce is extremely difficult, but not having the right representation makes it a thousand times worse. I had a great legal team from start to finish. My attorney was Mr Will Davis and I would highly recommend him and his firm for your legal matters. I’m truly happy and grateful this divorce is now a thing of the past 5🌟
  
 
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   Tracy McConaghie 
 169 days ago
 
 
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   Anna Bostic 
 233 days ago
 
 
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   Jim Jones 
 298 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David and his team are extremely professional, responsive, and helpful. They have always done right by me and shown a compassion when dealing with complicated issues. Definitely recommend Naggiar & Sarif  if you are looking for counsel
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jessica Lawrence 
 302 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot express how wonderful this firm is. From the moment you’re represented, you have a team. Megan, Eleanora (Nora), Misty & Maria helped me through the most challenging part of my life. A divorce that heightened my anxiety to levels I never want to experience again. Megan & Nora fought for mine & my son’s best interest. They are all extremely knowledgable with the laws, compassionate & understanding if you panic (like I did at times).
I cannot thank you guys enough! If I ever need representation again, I know where to go.
  
 
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   Matthew Oberholtzer 
 303 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Robert Miller represented me in a recent divorce case. He was upfront and honest from the start of my case through to the final decree. His promptness in follow up and feedback allowed me to close up an initially contested case in a little over 3 months. I’d definitely recommend Robert to anyone that has to go through what can be a very stressful process.
  
 
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   Jay 
 311 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David Sarif is an excellent attorney and person.  He truly listens to his clients and is trustworthy.  I would and have recommended him to several people and all have felt the same way about him.  If you need someone who is always in your corner and will do the very best job,  David is who you need.
  
 
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   PHENIX Investigations 
 337 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
  
 
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   Rebecca McKelvey 
 369 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David Sarif is one of the very best Atlanta divorce lawyers. His intelligence and experience intersect to provide a client experience that is success- and solution-oriented, especially for complex matters with difficult issues and complicated assets. He is personally motivated to achieve the best outcome for his clients, whether in the courtroom or at the negotiating table, and that success rate is evident in his work product.
  
 
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   Amy Sabo 
 371 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Extremely kind and helpful during a very rough time! Highly recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Callie Richardson 
 379 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you’re looking for an attorney who actually listens, responds promptly, and keeps it real with you every step of the way Will is it. He was always attentive, gave me realistic expectations (no sugar-coating, which I appreciated), and at the end of the day, he got me everything I asked for in my settlement.

What I loved most is that he doesn’t just disappear once you hire him he stays engaged, makes sure you’re informed, and actually fights for you like you matter. After working with him, I honestly don’t know why anyone would go anywhere else. 10/10 recommend he’s that good.
  
 
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   Michelle Folsom 
 393 days ago
 
 
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   Laura Kate Cole 
 393 days ago
 
 
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   Stacy Pickelman 
 463 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David was so honest from the start. He recommended Will Davis who was a blessing during this extremely difficult time. He was very respectful of my time and finances. He and his staff were wonderful to work with and you can trust them. They even handled everything for me to change firms. Best decision!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Michael Gilroy 
 485 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From Day 1, Mr. Naggiar and Ms. Abercrombie made my case a priority, absorbing a decade of past history and implied intent. They assembled a tactical approach and supporting presentation that clearly and convincingly supported my position, leading to an overwhelmingly positive verdict on my behalf. I could not have had better representation.
  
 
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   Shea Cargile 
 490 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Judd Robins 
 501 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Naggiar & Sarif made the legal process smooth and successful. Very grateful for their support.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Rawwill 
 516 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. La Jayla and Danny are amazing. Helped me out so much!
  
 
 
  
 
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Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody in Atlanta

What is the difference between legal and physical custody in Georgia?

Legal custody grants a parent the right to make major decisions about the child's life, including matters of education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
Physical custody determines where the child lives and which parent is responsible for their daily care. In most Atlanta child custody cases, parents share joint legal custody even if one parent has primary physical custody.

Learn more about the difference between legal and physical custody in this blog post.

How do Atlanta courts determine child custody?

Under Georgia child custody laws, a court's primary objective is to make a decision based on the "best interests of the child." This is a comprehensive standard that considers many factors, such as the child's emotional ties to each parent, the ability of each parent to provide a stable home, and the child's adjustment to their home, school, and community. Learn more

What is a parenting plan, and is it required for my Atlanta child custody case?

Yes, a detailed parenting plan is a mandatory requirement in all Georgia child custody cases. This legal document outlines how both parents will share responsibilities and co-parent moving forward. A comprehensive plan typically includes a specific visitation schedule for weekends and holidays, as well as a clear framework for how parents will handle communication and decision-making. Learn more about parenting plans here.

Can a child in Georgia choose which parent to live with?

According to Georgia child custody laws, a child who is 14 years or older has the legal right to state a preference to the court regarding which parent they want to live with. However, the judge is not bound by this choice and will still make the final decision based on what is in the child's best interests. Learn more

Can an Atlanta child custody order be modified?

Yes, a child custody order can be modified, but only if a material change in circumstances has occurred since the original order was issued. A court must find that the change has a significant effect on the child's well-being.

Common reasons for seeking a child custody modification in Atlanta include a parental relocation or a change in a parent's living situation. Learn what qualifies as a custody modification in Georgia

Do I need an Atlanta Child Custody Attorney?

While simple cases can sometimes be handled alone, complex situations—like those involving relocation or high-conflict disputes—require professional oversight. Check out our 5 signs you should hire a custody attorney before making a decision.

Contact Our Atlanta Child Custody Attorneys Today

Don’t face a child custody dispute alone. Let Naggiar & Sarif provide the expert legal guidance you need to secure your family’s future. Schedule a confidential consultation with an Atlanta child custody attorney today.

Call us at (404) 816-2004 or complete out our online form below. We offer in-person, Zoom, and phone consultations for your convenience.

Recognized by Super Lawyers, Georgia Trend Magazine’s Legal Elite, and U.S. News Best Lawyers, Naggiar & Sarif is your trusted partner in Atlanta family law.