As of July 1, 2025, several new laws will reshape how child custody, protective orders, and child neglect cases are handled in Georgia. Whether you're currently navigating a custody dispute or reviewing an existing parenting plan, understanding these changes can help you stay informed and protected.

At The Cherry Law Firm, our team of expert family lawyers stay ahead of legislative shifts that impact Georgia families—so you don't have to play catch-up when your rights are at stake.

Understanding the 2025 Updates to Georgia Family Law

What's Driving These Changes?

Lawmakers have introduced targeted updates aimed at clarifying custody rights, protecting children and pets in domestic situations, and limiting overreach in court-ordered family reunification programs. These changes reflect growing public input on how the legal system should support—not complicate—family dynamics during legal proceedings.

Why July 1, 2025 Matters for Custody and Support Cases

While changes to child support calculations won't take effect until 2026, key custody-related reforms officially become law on July 1, 2025. These include Ethan's Law (HB 253), Senate Bill 110, and House Bill 177.

Ethan's Law (HB 253): Limiting Court-Ordered Reunification Programs

What Is Ethan's Law?

Named after a Georgia child at the center of a high-profile custody case, Ethan's Law limits a court's ability to order family reunification services—such as forced counseling or therapy between a child and parent—particularly when there are allegations of abuse or endangerment.

How It Changes Custody Proceedings in Georgia

Previously, courts had wide discretion to mandate reunification programs even in contested or traumatic circumstances. Ethan's Law restricts this authority, preventing judges from ordering such services unless all parties agree or there is clear justification.

When and How This May Affect Your Case

If you're involved in a custody case where abuse, alienation, or reunification concerns are present, this law may influence how courts respond to requests for forced counseling or visitation. Parents now have greater standing to push back against reunification orders that may not serve the child's best interests.

SB 110: New Definition of Child Neglect in Georgia

What the Law Says About “Free-Range” Parenting

Senate Bill 110 updates Georgia's legal definition of child neglect to protect parents who allow their children to engage in age-appropriate, independent activities—like walking to a neighbor's house, playing in a local park, or staying home for short periods.

Implications for Custody Disputes and DFCS Investigations

In custody battles, accusations of neglect can be used as leverage. This law makes it more difficult to classify reasonable independence as negligence. For families dealing with DFCS or parental fitness evaluations, it may offer new grounds for defense or dismissal of unfounded claims.

HB 177: Including Pets in Protective Orders

Protecting Animals in Domestic Violence Situations

House Bill 177 allows Georgia courts to include pets in family violence and dating violence protective orders. For many victims, a pet is part of the family—and this law acknowledges that by ensuring animals can be legally shielded from harm.

What This Means for Victims and Protective Order Requests

If you are seeking a restraining order against a former partner or spouse, you can now request that your pets be protected as well. This added layer of safety helps prevent threats or violence toward animals as a form of emotional control or retaliation.

What These Changes Mean for Georgia Families and Legal Strategy

Impacts on Custody Evaluations and Parenting Plans

From redefining neglect to narrowing the use of reunification programs, these new laws may influence how parenting plans are created and modified. Attorneys and judges alike will need to reexamine the weight given to certain claims, especially in contested custody or abuse-related matters.

How These Laws May Influence Family Court Rulings

Expect to see changes in how courts evaluate claims of endangerment, whether reunification services are appropriate, and how they address allegations of neglect based on parenting style. The court's toolkit is changing, and so is the legal strategy behind many custody arguments.

When to Speak with a Family Law Attorney

If you're unsure how these updates affect your situation—or you have a pending custody or protection matter—it's worth having your case reviewed. Adjustments to your strategy may be necessary under the new legal framework.

Looking Ahead: Major Child Support Changes Coming in 2026

While July 2025 brings important custody-related changes, Georgia is also preparing for sweeping updates to child support guidelines that take effect July 1, 2026.

Key Changes Taking Effect July 1, 2026

• Mandatory Low-Income Adjustment
  Courts will no longer have the option to apply a deviation for low-income parents—it will be required, helping ensure support amounts are fair and realistic.
  
  
• Required Parenting Time Adjustment
  The amount of time each parent spends with the child will directly impact the final support amount, moving away from the current discretionary model.
  
  
• VA Disability Offsets
  When a child receives VA benefits due to a parent's disability, that amount will now be considered part of the support calculation, potentially reducing the noncustodial parent's payment obligation.
  
  

Why Now Is the Time to Review Your Child Support Order

These updates are expected to affect thousands of support orders across the state. If your financial situation or custody schedule could be impacted, it's wise to begin preparing now. Waiting until 2026 could delay needed modifications or put you at a disadvantage.

How The Cherry Law Firm Can Help You Navigate These Changes

The legal landscape is shifting. Whether you're dealing with a custody case, protective order, or child support modification, our team is ready to help you understand your rights and protect your family.

We offer personalized legal guidance that keeps up with changing laws—so you're never left behind.

Schedule a consultation today to find out how these updates may affect your current or future case.