Insights
At Shewmaker & Lewis, we believe that knowledge is power—especially when it comes to the law. Our Insights page is your resource for exploring a wide range of legal topics, from Family Law and Military Justice to Criminal Defense and beyond. Through our blog articles, videos, and in-depth discussions, we break down complex legal issues in a way that’s clear, practical, and relevant.
Looking for even more candid legal conversations? Be sure to check out our Podcast/Vodcast here ,where we tackle important legal topics with real talk—no billboards required.
If I File for Divorce Can I Pick My Judge?
Steve and Patty Shewmaker look at the factors that go into determining alimony amounts in a divorce proceeding. Primarily the needs of one party, and the ability of the other party to pay.
What are the Factors the Courts Can Consider When Determining Alimony
Steve and Patty Shewmaker look at the factors that go into determining alimony amounts in a divorce proceeding. Primarily the needs of one party, and the ability of the other party to pay.
Alimony is Alive and Well in Georgia
In this, the first in a series of videos on alimony, Steve and Patty discuss the different types of alimony - periodic and lump sum, along with recent changes in the tax law regarding deductibility.
Meretricious Relationships
by James E. Holmes Georgia Law provides that a person paying alimony to a former spouse may seek to modify the obligation if the former spouse is involved in “the voluntary cohabitation …with a third party in a meretricious relationship”. [O.C.G.A. §19-6-19(b)]. But,...
Does Conduct Matter in a Divorce Proceeding?
In this video, Steve and Patty Shewmaker discuss the importance of conduct in the parties to a divorce and how important that is to the "decider" in a case, whether a judge or jury.
Georgia is an Equitable Division of Property State What Does That Mean?
Georgia’s an equitable division of property state. Property is not divided equally, it is divided fairly. Numerous factors including conduct go into the decisions which are either decided between the parties, by a judge, or by a jury.
Do I Want a “Bulldog” Attorney?
In this video Attorneys Steve and Patty Shewmaker discuss how often potential clients say they want a "bulldog attorney" and how it's not always advantageous for a lawyer to engage in "bulldog" tactics.
What is our Philosophy on the Practice of Law?
Steve and Patty Shewmaker share how they approach the practice of law. Their tag line, Helping People, speaks to the heart of what they do. Telling clients what they need to hear and not what they want to hear.
Do Awards Like “Super Lawyer” or “Top Lawyer” Have Any Meaning?
Attorneys Steve and Patty Shewmaker talk about awards like "Super Lawyer" and "Top Lawyer" and whether plaques and awards on an attorney's wall have any bearing on their success or track record as an attorney.
What Are the Red Flags to Look For When You Meet with an Attorney?
When choosing an attorney and meeting them for the first time, what do you need to look for to determine if they are a good fit for you. Attorney's Steve and Patty Shewmaker discuss some of the red flags that could indicate that you need to continue your search.
How Do You Select An Attorney
Picking an attorney can be a daunting task. In the video below, attorneys Steve and Patty Shewmaker discuss how you can pick the right law firm and attorney for you as well as how to ensure they're the right fit for your case.
Child Abuse Registry
The Department of Family and Children Services investigates cases where there are allegations of child abuse, neglect, and any other matter in which a child is in a potentially dangerous or unsafe situation. However, the Department is able to determine that an...