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If you're thinking about divorce or dealing with custody or support, these short lessons walk you through it in plain words. Each one takes about five minutes.

1. 1First steps if you're thinking about divorceSafety, privacy, papers to gather, and what not to do yet.Ready to read
2. 2How divorce works in GeorgiaUncontested or contested, filing and serving papers, mediation, and how long it takes.Ready to read
3. 3Mediation or going to courtHow mediation works, when it fits, and what a mediator does and doesn't do.Ready to read
4. 4Custody and parenting plansLegal and physical custody, parenting plans, visitation, and what judges look at.Ready to read
5. 5Child supportHow Georgia figures support from both parents' incomes, and how it can change later.Ready to read
6. 6Money, property and debtsThe house, retirement accounts, debts, alimony, and how property is divided.Ready to read
7. 7Working with a family lawyerRetainers, hourly and flat fees, what a lawyer does for you, and how to get the most from your lawyer.Ready to read
8. 8Writing to your exKeep messages short, calm and clear. Wait a day before answering anything that isn't urgent. Write as if a judge may read it.Ready to read
9. 9Words you'll hearPetition, service, answer, temporary hearing, mediation, settlement agreement, final decree, legitimation and more, in plain words.Ready to read

What these lessons can and can't do. They explain how divorce and family cases usually work in Georgia. Only a lawyer who knows your situation can tell you what applies to you.