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. How to challenge irrelevant discovery requests in GA custody battle?
- A: All of these questions are relevant in a custody case. As far as the criminal record, it depends on what the question is asking. For example, if if specifically asks to include records that are sealed then you have to include it. I would need to see the question to best advise you. But in short, it is all relevant.
- Q. Can I modify a visitation schedule before the final hearing due to dietary and screen time violations?
- A: You cannot modify your visitation schedule (unless you are allowing more time) without a court order. When your attorney is back in town, see if you can request another Hearing to address these concerns. Or sometimes, the attorneys can communicate and resolve these issues without going to court again.
- 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.
