Rebecca Lynn Smith
Meriwether & Tharp, LLC
I have always been an advocate for families. Since graduating from college in 2011, I have occupied various roles dedicated to assisting children and families dealing with homelessness, substance abuse, mental health issues, and domestic violence. My decision to attend law school was influenced by my personal experiences with the complexities of child custody. As both a mother and a stepparent, I relate deeply to many of the challenges my clients encounter, and I handle these cases with a great deal of empathy and understanding. My unwavering passion for championing the rights of children continues to motivate me.
I earned my Juris Doctorate from Atlanta's John Marshall Law School in 2024. During my time in law school, I balanced my studies with a part-time position as a law clerk and dedicated time to volunteer as a Court Appointed Special Advocate ("CASA"), advocating for children in foster care. Additionally, I completed an externship with the Juvenile Prosecutor in Coweta County, which enhanced my courtroom experience.
To revive the Family Law Society at Atlanta's John Marshall, I initially served as Vice President before advancing to President. In these roles, I was instrumental in providing fellow students with opportunities to engage in family law through networking events, job opportunities, volunteer experiences, and broad exposure to the field.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children. I also have a keen interest in planning and attending events, traveling, and maintaining fitness by going to the gym.
- Divorce
- Contested Divorce, Military Divorce, Property Division, Same Sex Divorce, Spousal Support & Alimony
- Family Law
- Child Custody, Child Support, Father's Rights, Guardianship & Conservatorship, Paternity, Prenups & Marital Agreements, Restraining Orders, Same Sex Family Law
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Free Consultation
Our office gives initial telephone conversations. - Credit Cards Accepted
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Rates, Retainers and Additional Information
Contact for details.
- Georgia
- State Bar of Georgia
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- English: Spoken, Written
- Meriwether & Tharp, LLC
- - Current
- Associate Attorney
- Atlanta's John Marshall Law School
- J.D. (2024)
- Activities: Family Law Society President, Peer Mentor, Social Engagement and Development Director of Peer Mentor Program
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- State Bar of Georgia
- Member
- Current
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- Atlanta Bar Association Family Law Section
- Member
- Current
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- Certified Family Mediator
- Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution
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- Q. Can I petition court without lawyer to modify custody
- A: Yes, you can. In Georgia, when a child is 11-13, a judge will speak with them and take their opinion into consideration as to what's in their best interest. At 14, they can elect who to live with and a judge will grant it as long as they feel its in the child's best interest.
- Q. What are my rights in a Georgia divorce if assets are in my husband's name?
- A: Under Georgia law, both you and your husband have equal rights to your children. In most cases, one parent is given primary custody and the other is given visitation time. In some cases, time is split between the two parents but judges are not as likely to award this unless parents can get along and live near each other. The judge will look at the best interest factors for the child and if the child is of a certain age, their opinion of who they want to live with is considered. Regarding your car and house, even if everything is in your husband's name, it is still considered marital property and you are entitled to an equitable portion. Ideally the two of you will agree on how to split your ... Read More
- Q. Can I file an uncontested divorce for a flat fee in Georgia?
- A: Yes, many attorneys will offer a flat fee service for an uncontested divorce. Please see the link below for more information.
https://mtlawoffice.com/divorce-process/getting-started-in-divorce/contested-v-uncontested/uncontested-divorce
I hope this helps. Best of luck to you.
