Who Decides a Divorce – A Judge or Jury?

Under Georgia law, a spouse is entitled to have his or her divorce case decided by either a judge or a 12-person jury, with one exception. A jury cannot make a decision about child custody or child visitation in the state of Georgia; only a judge is permitted to make this type of decision in a Georgia divorce. All other issues related to a divorce, however, including child support, alimony, and property division, can decided by a jury, if a spouse so chooses. In fact, if either spouse wants to have the divorce heard by a jury, he or she can do so, whether or not the other spouse agrees. It is only if both spouses would rather have their case heard by the judge that a jury will not be involved in their divorce.

The decision as to whether to have a divorce heard by judge or jury is not one to take lightly. The reality is that this decision can have a significant impact on the outcome of your divorce case. The decision really comes down to one of strategy. Fortunately, a Georgia divorce attorney has years of experience trying divorce cases before both juries and judges in the Atlanta area and throughout the state of Georgia. We know how judges and juries tend to look at certain issues involved in a divorce case, and can help you develop the best strategic plan for your divorce.

Contact us or call today to learn how Shaw Law can work with you to achieve the best outcome possible for you and your children.

Scott Shaw is founder and principle of Shaw Law Firm LLC, founded in 1995 and dedicated solely to divorce, family law and child custody matters that must be addressed and decided in the state of Georgia. Shaw Law Firm serves the greater Metro Atlanta area, particularly the counties of Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb, Cherokee, Forsyth, Paulding, Henry, Fayette, Coweta, Newton, Walton, Bartow and Douglas. Schedule a consultation today at 770-594-8309.