Rebecca Lynn Smith

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.

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Georgia

State Bar of Georgia

Meriwether & Tharp, LLC

2025 - 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

State Bar of Georgia

Member

Current

Atlanta Bar Association Family Law Section

Member

Current

Certified Family Mediator

Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution

2023

Q. What can I do about issues with joint custody and lack of communication with my kids?

July 9, 2025

A: You have the option of filing for Contempt of the current Court Order and can also file a Modification if changes to visitation or custody are needed. In Georgia, there must be a substantial change in circumstance. I would argue that the mother and the children relocating to Alaska would be a substantial change in circumstance if that happened after your Court Order was signed. If it is feasible for you to fly to Alaska or for them to fly to Georgia for visitation then that should be happening. It seems like that would be challenging. If it is not feasible, then a Modification for visitation would be needed. The children's ages may be an obstacle, because they probably have their own phones and can reach out on their own. It will be challenging to get a judge to enforce phone calls at that age. Also, at that age, judges look to what the children want. If you have evidence that the mother is alienating the children from you, that would be helpful for your case but it is difficult to prove. Document as much as you can between you and her and you and the children. ... Read More

Q. Can I petition court without lawyer to modify custody

June 30, 2025

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?

June 25, 2025

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 marital property and work out a parenting plan that works for you both. If you cannot agree then a judge will decide for you. ... Read More