What is a Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit?
Rule 24.2 of the Uniform Rules of the Superior Courts of the State of Georgia sets forth the specific form that each person who is involved in any type of domestic relations case must complete and serve upon the other party at least five days before any hearing is held by the court. This Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit (DRFA) requires each person to provide extensive information about his or her finances, income, assets, and expenses. He or she also must attach two paycheck stubs. Each person must complete and sign the affidavit under oath before a notary public.
Georgia law requires that both parties complete all of the information on the form in order to ensure that they can make a proper proposal for the division of assets and property in a divorce, compute a child support order, or request an award of alimony. Since the form is completed under oath and required by the court, a party can face repercussions if he or she fails to complete it or leaves out necessary information. Therefore, the sooner that you take the time to sit down and complete this form, the better. It can be a time-consuming process, but it will help you be better prepared for any questions that you face during your court hearing.
Keep in mind that you should include all assets on the DRFA, even if it is a premarital asset that you brought to the marriage, or an inheritance or gift given solely to you and not your spouse. If you own your own business, you will have to report all of your business income and expenses, in addition to your personal income and expenses.
No matter if you are facing a divorce suit, paternity action, child custody modification, or child support proceeding, you must disclose your financial information to the other party using the DRFA prescribed by Georgia divorce law.
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Scott Shaw is founder and principle of Shaw Law Firm LLC, founded in 1995 and dedicated solely to divorce, family law and child custody matters that must be addressed and decided in the state of Georgia. Shaw Law Firm serves the greater Metro Atlanta area, particularly the counties of Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb, Cherokee, Forsyth, Paulding, Henry, Fayette, Coweta, Newton, Walton, Bartow and Douglas. Schedule a consultation today at 770-594-8309.