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. When does child support end with two children, aged 19 and 16, in Georgia?
- A: You would need to file for a Modification of Child Support to end child support for your 19 year old. Child support in GA goes until the child is 18 AND graduates high school. If the child is still enrolled in high school at age 19 or 20, it can continue but it sounds like your 19 year old has graduated. If you do not file for a Modification, you will pay until your 16 year old is 18 and graduates high school.
- Q. Can a non-custodial parent keep children who wish to stay with them despite custody arrangements?
- A: No, that parent cannot do that, as there is a court order in place they must comply with. If this is the case and the children want to live with the non custodial parent, depending on their age, a Modification of Custody and Affidavit of Election can be filed. The current Order and Parenting Plan would need to be adhered to until there is a new Order or signed agreement by the Court in place. Your option is to document that the children have not been returned, file a Contempt action, and request an immediate Hearing in front of the judge.
- Q. Potential jail time for unpaid child support due to job loss and no resources in GA
- A: If the the court finds you in willful contempt you may face jail time. If you can show that your failure to pay is based on lack of income and not "wilful" it is not likely they will put you in jail.
