Family Law Insurance Issues in Georgia

When addressing child support in the context of a Georgia divorce proceeding, insurance needs are an integral component. Where one party in a divorce agrees or is ordered by the court to pay child support, it is important to consider what will happen should that parent die while the children are still minors.

One idea that is gaining popularity between divorcing couples is purchasing a term life insurance policy that will ensure the children's needs are met in the wake of losing a parent. Many divorce agreements contain such a provision. Without that protection, the death of a person providing support may mean there will be no further contribution to the expenses of the children - which can affect whether the children can enjoy the activities they were once accustomed to doing when both parents were contributing to their care.

The person who is obligated to provide support normally establishes a term policy with the proceeds paid for the benefit of the children in trust. Once the children have turned 18, or as otherwise defined under the divorce agreement, the owner of the policy can change beneficiaries or convent the policy for other use as is deemed fit. Of course, should the party desire, the policy can be canceled once the use for its creation is no longer an issue.

These matters ought to be discussed with your Georgia divorce and family law attorney so that he or she can help decipher the policies. Copies of the policies, where available, will be helpful. Once a determination is made about the value of each policy and the perceived equitable division, the matters may be negotiated for settlement or left to the court's determination in a contested divorce.