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.
How Should You Handle TRS Accounts and Others that are not Divisible in a QDRO?
When couples divorce, assets are typically divided. Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDRO) are typically required. What happens with TRS Accounts and similar accounts that are not divisible in a QDRO? It can be complicated and challenging . Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy Lewis of the Law Firm Shewmaker and Lewis discuss in this video.
Is Every Retirement Account Divisible by a QDRO?
When couples divorce, assets are typically divided. Does the division extend to their retirement plans? Not necessarily. Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDRO) are required. Do those QDROs apply to every retirement account? Not necessarily! Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy Lewis of the Law Firm Shewmaker and Lewis discuss the particulars in this video.
What Type of Accounts Need QDROs?
Assets are typically divided when a couple gets divorced but the split does not necessarily extend to retirement plans. This is where a qualified domestic relations order, or QDRO, is need. Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy Lewis of the Law Firm Shewmaker & Lewis discuss the different rules for dividing assets depending on the type of retirement account in question.
Does it Matter Where a Lawyer Went to School or if they were on Law Review?
As attorneys, we are occasionally asked by prospective clients where we went to law school or if we were on law review. Do either of those matter once a lawyer has left law school and entered private practice? What questions should you be asking when you’re hiring an attorney? Steve and Patty Shewmaker of the Shewmaker & Lewis Law firm discuss what really matters when you’re making a decision on what lawyer to choose.
What is the Process for Obtaining a Guardian Ad Litem? (GAL)
A guardian ad litem is an individual appointed by a judge to help a litigant in a case if the court determines that a litigant is unable to adequately participate in the case before the court. Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy Lewis of the Law Firm Shewmaker & Lewis discuss the process of the appointment of a guardian ad litem.
How Difficult is it to Adopt Your Stepchildren?
Often, stepparents choose to take on additional responsibilities and challenges by adopting their stepchildren. There are legal hurdles that have to be addressed when attempting to formalize the relationship, including consent of the other birth parent. Patty Shewmaker and Alexa Lewis of the Law Firm Shewmaker & Lewis discuss the difficulties.
Can My Attorney Influence Who I Get for Jurors on My Jury Trial?
So you’re going to trial and you know it’s critically important who sits on the jury. Your future is in the hands of these strangers. How much control does your attorney have over who get chosen and who doesn’t? What’s the process for picking a juror? Steve and Patty Shewmaker from the Shewmaker & Lewis law firm discuss the ins and outs of jury selection.
Can You Have a Jury Trial for Your Divorce in Georgia?
Can You Have a Jury Trial for Your Divorce in Georgia? Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should do something. Steve and Patty Shewmaker of the Shewmaker & Lewis Law Firm discuss reasons you may or may not want a jury trial.
What Happens in a Title IX Investigation?
In this video, Steve Shewmaker and Alexa Lewis of the Law Firm Shewmaker & Lewis discuss the procedures involved in a title IX investigation, how they can result in a hearing and how to respond if you’re a student facing an investigation or hearing.
What Happens If You Don’t do a QDRO in a Military Separation or Divorce?
The ramifications if you delay in obtaining a QDRO in a Military Separation or Divorce are severe. You could lose valuable rights and run the risk of forfeiting benefits that were awarded to you. In this video, Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy Lewis of the Law Firm Shewmaker & Lewis discuss the importance of QDROs and what could happen if you neglect to get one.
What Happens to a Military Pension after a Divorce When the Service Member Dies?
Alexa Lewis and Steve Shewmaker of the Atlanta, GA based Law Firm Shewmaker & Lewis discuss what happens to military pensions after a divorce and the death of the service member, as well as the survivor benefit annuity.
What is the 10/10 Rule in Military Divorce and How Does That Affect the Pension?
The 10/10 rule applies to former spouses of military members and defines how they receive their portion of the ex’s military retirement pay if they are entitled to it in military divorce cases. Steve Shewmaker and Alexa Lewis of the Atlanta, GA based Law Firm Shewmaker and Lewis discuss in this video.