What do high-speed chases, GPS lawsuits, jury picks worth millions, and dumpster stakeouts have in common? They’re all part of the wild and fascinating world of private investigation.

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team sits down with Pat and Eric Echols of TFP Company - Georgia’s premier private investigative service. Married for over 30 years and partners in both life and business, the Echols share stories from national headline cases to the everyday grind of domestic surveillance and tough process service.

🔍 From serving evasive witnesses at the airport to uncovering the truth behind suspicious deaths, Pat and Eric pull back the curtain on what it really means to be a PI. Along the way, you’ll hear why truth, fact, and protect isn’t just their motto - it’s their mission.

🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker & Alexa Lewis
🕵️ Guests: Pat & Eric Echols, TFP Company (Truth, Fact, Protect)

Find out more about Pat & Eric on their website here: http://www.tfpcompany.net/

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis - Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense. No billboards. No BS.

🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more
📺 Video version on YouTube: https://studio.youtube.com/video/bwdNR3SvS9o/edit

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions
🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

Can you really have a jury trial in a Georgia divorce? Yes — but only in very specific circumstances. And it’s one of the rarest legal options in the country.

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team pulls back the curtain on how jury trials work in Georgia family law — from what juries can decide (and what they can’t) to why you might want one… or why it could be the most expensive popularity contest you’ve ever entered.

With humor, candid stories, and hard-won insights, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa cover:

• Why Georgia is one of only two states that allow jury trials in divorce cases
• The types of issues juries can decide (hint: not custody)
• Strategic reasons lawyers request juries — and when it’s a bad idea
• How jury selection works (and why you might end up with a Hollywood stuntman deciding your financial future)
• The cost, delays, and risks you need to weigh before rolling the dice

🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis
👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense, with zero billboards and zero fluff.

🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more
📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CJWsWpwn6UU

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions
🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

What happens when a former prosecutor becomes a judge - and decides to launch a mental health accountability court? Or when someone shows up to court in shorts and flip-flops?

In this candid and often hilarious episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team welcomes their first-ever guest judge: the Honorable David Lyles of Paulding County. Judge Lyles opens up about the real challenges facing Georgia courts, from mental health evaluations to courtroom fashion violations.

👨‍⚖️ It’s part practical advice, part courtroom confessional—with a few dogs, binders, and seersucker suits thrown in for good measure.

🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis
 🦸 Guest: Judge David Lyles, Superior Court Judge, Paulding County

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense. No billboards. No BS.

🔍 You’ll Learn:

• What accountability courts actually do—and why they matter
• Why most mentally ill inmates are stuck in limbo
• The strange logic behind Paulding County’s black pants closet
• What happens if you show up to court in shorts or flip-flops
• How judges really feel about fake crying on the stand
• The rules of evidence too many civil lawyers ignore
• Why Judge Lyles loves binders (and his clerk hates them)
• How he really feels about Zoom court and courtroom microphones
• Why he prefers “Your Honor”—but won’t hold it against you

📌 Chapters:
 00:00 – Welcome & Intro
 01:22 – Meet Judge David Lyles
 03:31 – What Are Accountability Courts?
 05:11 – Mental Illness & Georgia’s Jail Crisis
 06:57 – Resistance from Law Enforcement and Defendants
 08:13 – The Long Game: Breaking the Jail Cycle
 08:47 – Yes, There’s a Pants Closet
 10:05 – Shorts in Court? Not a Good Look
 12:21 – Women’s Court Attire: A Delicate Topic
 13:13 – How Judge Lyles Handles Attorney Dress Code
 14:45 – Form vs Function in the Courtroom
 16:04 – “Your Honor” vs “Judge” – What’s in a Name?
 17:35 – Why Zoom Court Can Be a Problem
 19:45 – Courtroom Layout Challenges
 21:04 – When Zoom Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)
 22:24 – Pet Peeves: Evidence Handling & Binder Battles
 26:52 – The Dog in the Parking Lot Custody Test
 30:02 – Summarizing Financials the Right Way
 32:16 – Don’t Lie—Especially Not to Judge Lyles
 34:31 – Emotions, Attitude & Behavior in Court
 36:13 – Going From Prosecutor to Family Court Judge
 38:46 – The Joy of Creative Solutions

🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more
📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GbIMJ2G_mM0

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions
 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

What do military tax breaks, digital IDs, roadside pet sales, and Brunswick Stew have in common? They’re all part of Georgia’s latest legislative updates—and yes, they’re now law.

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team dives into the new Georgia laws that took effect on July 1, 2025. With their signature humor and sharp insight, the team breaks down what’s new, what’s useful, and what’s just plain weird.

📉 From income tax cuts to bans on cell phones in elementary schools, they cover it all—no legalese, no fluff, just real talk from real lawyers.
🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis
👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis — Atlanta attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense. No billboards. No BS.

🔍 You’ll Learn:

• Why the state income tax rate dropped—and where it’s headed next
• Who qualifies for Georgia’s new child tax credit (and the legal custody twist)
• What schools now must do about cell phones and truancy
• How digital driver’s licenses affect your privacy during a traffic stop
• What new protections apply to IVF patients and adopted adults
• Why military retirees are celebrating this year’s tax changes
• The role pets now play in protective orders
• And yes… Brunswick Stew and Cornbread now have official legal status

📌 Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & Overview
01:24 – Georgia Income Tax Rate Drops
02:30 – New Child Tax Credit (Custody Implications)
04:55 – Why July 1 Matters for New Laws
05:03 – Truancy Reform: Can’t Be Expelled for Absence
08:22 – Cell Phone Ban for Grades K–8
10:59 – Adoptees Can Access Birth Certificates
11:45 – IVF Rights Defined in Law
12:18 – Digital Licenses and Your Right to Privacy
14:30 – Military Retirement Tax Exemptions
15:20 – Protective Orders Can Include Pets
17:00 – Ban on Roadside Sales of Dogs, Cats, Rabbits
20:54 – Blaze Pink Legal for Hunters
21:10 – Brunswick Stew & Cornbread Go Official
21:50 – Wrap-Up

🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more
📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hRM-gdr0thk
📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions
🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge –  in Atlanta, GA

Think mediators just pass notes between lawyers all day? Think again.

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, legendary Atlanta mediator Louis Tesser joins the Shewmaker & Lewis team to pull back the curtain on what really goes down in a domestic mediation. From sausage-eating contests and Stanley Tucci impressions to emotional breakdowns and attorney egos, Louis shares the candid truth about the psychology, pressure, and performance art of high-stakes family law negotiation.

🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis
 🦸 Guest: Louis Tesser, Mediator Extraordinaire (and possibly the Jewish Stanley Tucci)

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.

🔍 You’ll learn:

• What really makes a good mediator (hint: it’s not neutrality)
• Why humor can make or break a mediation
• How emotional rollercoasters shape negotiation outcomes
• Why the best trial lawyers are often the best at settling cases
• What lawyers do that drive mediators crazy (and how to avoid it)

📌 Chapters:
 00:00 – Meet Louis: Mediator. Musician. Tucci Enthusiast.
 06:00 – From Litigator to Mediator: Why He Switched
 10:00 – The Long Day: How Mediation Really Works
 15:00 – What Makes a Lawyer Mediator-Friendly?
 18:00 – Real Talk: Are You Just Chasing a Pound of Flesh?
 22:00 – Emotions, Egos & the Wisdom Bubble
 28:00 – The “Super Officer” of the Court

👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com

🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.
📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5C_F77CB_qs

📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
 🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions
 🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA

Think accountants are all spreadsheets and no drama? Think again.

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, forensic accountant Sherri Holder joins the Shewmaker & Lewis team to talk about what really happens when money, marriage, and mayhem collide. From strip club spending sprees to business valuations gone wild, this episode explores how forensic accounting can make or break a high-asset divorce case - and why a "hookers and horses" analysis might just be part of the job.

🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis
👩‍💼 Guest: Sherri Holder, forensic accountant, CVA, ABV, CFF, CPA

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.

🔍 You’ll learn:

• When you really need a forensic accountant
• What counts as dissipation of assets in divorce
• How businesses are valued in court (and why it’s rarely simple)
• Why judges love visual aids—and expert witnesses who can explain them

📌 Chapters:
 00:00 – Meet Sherri: Super Accountant & Divorce Veteran
 03:15 – What Do Forensic Accountants Actually Do?
 10:00 – The Hookers and Horses Analysis Explained
 14:45 – Valuing Businesses in Divorce: Jose’s Food Mart Case
 19:20 – Asset, Market, and Income Approaches (Plain English!)
 25:00 – Telling the Story for Judges vs. Juries
 29:00 – What Makes a Business Valuation Difficult
 33:00 – Working with Attorneys (and Avoiding Bad Cross-Exams)

👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com

🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.
📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/13vb2cA1UsI

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions
🎥 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Think divorce is all about houses, money, and custody? Think again. This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards goes deep into the world of personal property—the stuff inside the house—and the surprisingly intense (and sometimes ridiculous) battles that happen over it.

The Shewmaker & Lewis team shares real courtroom stories of cookware conflicts, liquor collections, coin disputes, firearms, and even ashes of beloved pets. You’ll hear what judges really think about dividing the “stuff” and how to keep it from becoming a costly mess.

🎙️ Hosts: Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, Alexa Lewis

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.

🔍 You’ll learn:

• What counts as “pots and pans” in divorce
• When judges will divide personal property - and when they won’t
• The Target Rule and other tips to save time, money, and sanity

👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com

🔗 Podcast Library:  https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.

📺 Video version on YouTube:

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions

Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Is it a red flag if your lawyer is chummy with opposing counsel? Or could it actually help your case?

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team tackles a common client concern: attorney friendships across the aisle. Partners Patty Shewmaker, Steve Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis discuss why knowing and even liking the opposing attorney might lead to faster resolutions, fewer court battles, and better outcomes for everyone involved.

They share real-life stories from the courtroom - where friends sometimes fight fiercely, and where being too friendly can raise eyebrows. They also talk about when it’s not okay, how to handle optics in front of a client or jury, and even what happens when a judge is part of the inner circle.

🎧 Whether you’re in the middle of a case or just curious about how law really works, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

👉 Have a question or topic idea? Visit shewmakerandlewis.com

Chapters:
00:00 – Intro
01:00 – Is it OK to be friends with opposing counsel?
02:30 – Benefits of good working relationships
04:10 – The “fun” trifecta: good client, judge, and opposing counsel
05:30 – When friendliness crosses a line
07:00 – Balancing professionalism and perception
09:30 – Giving (and receiving) “nastygrams”
11:00 – What if you know the judge?
13:00 – Final takeaways: Don’t be alarmed

🔗 Podcast Library:  https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.

📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-0sT77VOX5Q

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: jlewis@shewmakerandlewis.com

Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Productions

Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Can courthouse food really impact the outcome of your case? You’d be surprised.

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the Shewmaker & Lewis team dives into the lighter (but very real) side of litigation — how food, snacks, and meal breaks play a crucial role in your court experience.

Join Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa as they swap their favorite (and not-so-favorite) lunch spots across Georgia’s busiest courthouses, relive courtroom hangry moments, and debate the ultimate question: Should snacks be part of your trial strategy?

🍔💼 From vending machines and Chick-fil-A sandwiches to courthouse cafeterias and the legendary Oink Joint, this is your unofficial food guide to Georgia's legal system.

✅ Highlights include:

• Why your blood sugar matters more than your closing argument
• Smart strategies for prepping clients (and yourself) for a long day in court
• Best (and worst) courthouse food options in metro Atlanta and beyond
• Funny, real stories from military trials, domestic cases, and more
• Why DeKalb isn't De-Kal-b and Cobb is a culinary win

🔗 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense – with zero billboards and zero BS.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Search Lawyers Without Billboards.

📺 Video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JYPh4L4a0Dw

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Studio

Produced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Ever wonder if what you wear to court really matters? (Spoiler: It absolutely does.)

In this laugh-out-loud yet surprisingly serious episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the team at Shewmaker & Lewis dives into real-life fashion fails in the courtroom — from sequined dresses and house slippers to “self-made millionaire” t-shirts and Crocs.

Join Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa as they swap outrageous stories, give practical advice on courtroom attire (for litigants and lawyers), and explain why what you wear can influence how judges and juries perceive you. From Zoom court disasters to debates over heels vs. flats, this episode has it all — including a call for nominations for Georgia’s favorite Superior Court judge.

👔💼 Court isn't a costume party. Dress like your case depends on it.

✅ Highlights include:

• Real courtroom fashion disasters
• Why attire influences legal outcomes
• What to wear (and avoid) as a litigant or attorney
• Zoom court dos and don'ts
• The psychology of first impressions in court
• A call for listeners to vote for their favorite Georgia Superior Court judge

🔗Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. Check out the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AXVxo_ZhL0Y

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

🎙 Produced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Ever wondered what really happens during divorce mediation - and whether you have to do it? This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood aspects of family law.

Join attorneys Patty Shewmaker, Steve Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis of Shewmaker & Lewis as they explore:

• What mediation actually is (and isn’t)
• Why most Georgia counties require it
• Whether you have to be in the same room as your ex
• How to pick a good mediator
• What makes a bad one (hint: they’re called “ask clowns”)
• Why fighting over figurines might cost more than they’re worth
• How to prepare for mediation so you don’t waste your time—or your retainer

With humor, candor, and war stories from the trenches, this episode breaks down mediation in a way that’s practical, funny, and brutally honest. Whether you're heading into a divorce or just curious how it all works, this episode will leave you informed and entertained.

⏱️ Chapter Markers

00:00 – Welcome and episode intro
 01:20 – What is mediation, and is it required?
 03:10 – Do you have to be in the same room? (Short answer: no.)
 06:50 – War stories: When mediation goes sideways
 11:15 – Mediation vs. court: what’s at stake
 12:45 – Picking the right mediator
 15:40 – Should mediators offer opinions? (Spoiler: yes.)
 16:55 – What makes a case likely (or unlikely) to settle
 18:00 – How to prepare for mediation like a pro
 20:40 – Forged documents and figurine battles: Funny and bizarre mediation stories
 26:50 – Why some counties won’t even hear your case until you mediate
 30:20 – Wrap-up and final thoughts

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.

✅ Available on all platforms — or visit https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Studio

🎙 Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

#FamilyLaw #DivorceMediation #LawPodcast #MediationMatters #GeorgiaLaw #ShewmakerAndLewis #LawyersWithoutBillboards #CustodyLaw #LegalAdvice #DivorceHumor #LegalInsights

Custody battles aren’t just about kids anymore - they’re about pets. In this episode, the team at Shewmaker & Lewis dives into the emotional and legal complications that arise when couples split up and both want the dog, cat… or parrot.

Attorneys Steve and Patty Shewmaker are joined by Alexa and Jimmy Lewis for a candid (and sometimes hilarious) discussion about pet custody during divorce, how courts treat animals, and the surprising ways some couples weaponize their pets. Featuring the firm’s own rescue cat, Adeline, this episode blends compassion, strategy, and a little cattiness of its own.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:
• How Georgia law treats pets in divorce (hint: it’s not like kids)
• Real-life stories of couples fighting over animals
• Why pets can become emotional leverage in custody disputes
• Tips for protecting your rights to a pet during separation
• What to do if your ex keeps the pet out of spite
• Adeline the cat’s origin story - and her opinion on all of this 

 ⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: Adeline the Cat Makes an Entrance
01:15 – When Pets Become Pawns in Divorce
04:20 – What Georgia Law Says About Pet Custody
07:10 – Real Cases: Who Gets the Dog?
10:22 – Emotional Leverage: Using Pets to Get to a Spouse
13:45 – Should Pets Be Treated Like Property?
16:10 – Legal Tips for Pet Ownership in Divorce
19:25 – Adeline’s Story & Office Mascot Status
21:40 – Wrap-Up: Compassion, Courts, and Cats 

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Studio

Produced by Rob Burgner at Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

Ever wondered how parenting time actually affects child support in Georgia? This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards breaks down the new 2026 Parenting Time Adjustment rule - and why it's already showing up in courtrooms. Hosted by the legal minds at Shewmaker & Lewis, this episode offers a smart, honest, and occasionally hilarious look at the complex math behind custody and support.

Join Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Alexa Lewis, and Jimmy Lewis as they unpack:

• What the new Parenting Time Adjustment is (and how it's different from a deviation)
• Why it’s already being used—even before the 2026 start date
• How overnights (and even daytime hours) now dramatically impact support amounts
• Why the math can take 45 minutes or more to calculate
• How parenting schedules like “Thursday to Monday” weekends can save (or cost) you hundreds
• What to expect when courts default to “standard parenting plans”
• Why this law is likely to increase litigation, not reduce it
• What happens when the custodial parent ends up paying you

This isn’t just a dry dive into legal math - it’s an essential look at how child support is evolving in Georgia, told with real cases, real consequences, and a few dad jokes for good measure.

Chapters:
⏱️ 00:00 – Intro & Host Welcome
⏱️ 01:14 – What’s Changing in 2026?
⏱️ 04:44 – Shared Income Model vs. Old System
⏱️ 08:21 – Step 1: Calculating Parenting Time Overnights
⏱️ 14:08 – Online Tools & The Minnesota Calendar Hack
⏱️ 17:33 – Complexity & Burden of the New Law
⏱️ 22:00 – Default Parenting Plans in Georgia
⏱️ 23:11 – Real-World Example: How Much Parenting Time Affects Payments
⏱️ 26:08 – Can the Custodial Parent End Up Paying?
⏱️ 28:00 – Final Thoughts & Litigation Forecast 

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

Music by Ben Hernandez at Dragonsong Studio

🎙 Produced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

#ChildSupport #ParentingTime #GeorgiaLaw #FamilyLaw #LegalPodcast #Custody #Divorce #ShewmakerAndLewis #LawyersWithoutBillboards #LegalAdvice #AttorneysInAtlanta

Ever wonder what really happens when someone files a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) in Georgia? This episode of Lawyers Without Billboards delivers an unfiltered, no-nonsense breakdown of the legal, emotional, and strategic realities of civil protective orders. Hosted by the seasoned legal team at Shewmaker & Lewis, this episode is as informative as it is entertaining—think courtroom meets Jerry Springer (yes, really).

Join Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Alexa Lewis, and Jimmy Lewis as they explore:

• What qualifies as a TPO in Georgia
• The legal definition of “family violence”
• Why intimate relationships (not just romantic ones) matter
• What kinds of evidence judges look for
• How timing and context influence your chances
• Why ex parte hearings are constitutional (and controversial)
• What rights you may lose—including the right to possess firearms
• How TPOs impact child custody, housing, and employment
• When a judge may deny a TPO—or grant one "just in case"

This episode is full of real courtroom insight, legal strategy, and yes—dad jokes. Whether you're seeking a TPO, defending against one, or simply curious about how Georgia’s civil court system operates, this is the survival guide you didn't know you needed.

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense - with zero billboards and zero BS.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: alewis@shewmakerandlewis.com

🎙 Produced by Bleeding Edge in Atlanta, GA.

#FamilyLaw #ProtectiveOrder #TPO #GeorgiaLaw #DomesticViolence #CivilCourt #LawPodcast #ShewmakerAndLewis #LegalAdvice #AttorneysInAtlanta

What happens when a teenager wants to live with the other parent? Can a child simply sign a paper and shift custody? If you're confused about affidavits of election, you're not alone—and this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards breaks it all down with clarity, insight, and a bit of laughter.

Your hosts—attorneys Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis of Shewmaker & Lewis in Atlanta—dig into the real meaning of these affidavits, how Georgia law treats them, and the ethical (and emotional) minefields involved when children are caught in the middle of a custody battle.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What an affidavit of election actually is
• At what age a child’s choice holds legal weight in Georgia
• Why judges may not follow a child’s wishes—even when the affidavit is valid
• The difference between a ticket to court and a ticket to a custody change
• How parents sometimes misuse these affidavits—and what courts think of that
• Tips from the attorneys on how they personally handle these cases with kids
• When affidavits can help—and when they might backfire

Along the way, the team shares real-world stories from the courtroom, talks through strategy, and offers candid perspectives on how best to balance legal strategy with a child's best interest.

Whether you're a parent navigating custody or just curious about how family law really works, this episode offers a grounded, eye-opening look at one of the most misunderstood tools in domestic law.

👨‍⚖️ Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta-based attorneys helping families navigate divorce, custody, and criminal defense—with zero billboards and zero BS.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

00:00 - Intro: No Billboards, Just Real Lawyers
01:18 - What Is an Affidavit of Election?
02:13 - Age Requirements & Legal Weight
03:09 - What Judges Really Consider
04:10 - Why a Judge Might Say “No”
06:24 - How Attorneys Handle Children Signing Affidavits
08:47 - Does the Child Need Their Own Attorney?
10:21 - The Ethics and Risks of Affidavits
11:16 - Can a 14-Year-Old Refuse Visitation?
13:03 - Prater v. Wheeler and Legal Misunderstandings
15:38 - Judges and the “Best Interests” Standard
18:33 - When Affidavits Are Your Only Option
20:18 - Abuse and Misuse of Affidavits
22:32 - Wrapping It Up: Our Thoughts and Real-World Stories

#FamilyLaw #ChildCustody #AffidavitOfElection #GeorgiaFamilyLaw #CustodyModification #DivorceLaw #ShewmakerAndLewis #LegalAdvice #FamilyCourt #LawyersWithoutBillboards #LegalPodcast

If you're a parent considering a move after divorce - or if you're already dealing with a custody agreement - you need to listen to this episode before you pack a single box.

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, attorneys Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis from Shewmaker & Lewis dive into one of the most emotionally and legally complex topics in family law: child custody modifications due to relocation.

Whether the move is across town or across the country, changing a child's living situation can trigger major legal consequences, especially when there's a custody order in place. This episode covers real-world relocation scenarios - from military reassignments to spontaneous life changes - and explains what not to do when you’re planning a move with your child.

👂 You’ll learn:

• Why relocation custody cases often cost more than the original divorce
• How Georgia judges assess “best interests of the child” in relocation matters
• The consequences of moving without notifying the other parent
• What to do when the non-custodial parent relocates
• How child support and parenting time are affected by relocation
• The importance of calling a family law attorney before making a move

📍 Whether you're a co-parent, military family, or simply navigating post-divorce transitions, this episode offers crucial insights for avoiding costly mistakes and protecting your parental rights.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

👉 Visit us at https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com for legal resources, case consultations, and future podcast updates.

📍 Recorded in Atlanta, GA | Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Family Law Attorneys

Chapter Markers | Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction & Nacho Joke Callback  
01:47 – Custody vs. Divorce: The Emotional & Financial Stakes  
03:14 – Teenagers, Custody, and the Catlike Phase  
04:10 – Why Relocation Cases Are So Expensive  
05:07 – The High School Sweetheart Move to Ohio  
06:08 – When Clients Tell You *Before* They Move  
07:01 – The Case That Lost Custody Due to Delay  
08:10 – Patty as Guardian ad Litem: When the Move “Stuck”  
09:39 – Judges, Punishment, and Best Interests of the Child  
10:24 – The Texas Move: What Not to Do  
11:14 – Why Relocation Is So Painful & Unpredictable  
12:03 – Even In-State Moves Can Trigger Custody Challenges  
13:22 – When the Non-Custodial Parent Moves  
14:26 – Modifying Visitation and Parenting Schedules  
15:02 – Do Judges Care *Why* You're Moving?  
16:10 – Child Support Adjustments & Retroactive Deviations  
17:03 – Final Thoughts: Always Call a Lawyer Before You Move  
18:46 – Quick Tease: International Custody & Hague Convention  
19:49 – Hero of the Week: Attorney Rebecca McLaw  
21:08 – Outro  

#FamilyLaw #ChildCustody #RelocationCases #ParentingAfterDivorce #GeorgiaLaw #CustodyModification #DivorceAttorney #CoParenting #MilitaryDivorce

What Really Happens in Georgia Courts
In this no-holds-barred episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa from Shewmaker & Lewis dig deep into alimony in Georgia—how it’s awarded, who qualifies, and what factors truly influence outcomes in the courtroom. 

From outdated laws to modern challenges, the team discusses need vs. ability to pay, gender bias, lifestyle standards, infidelity, employment expectations, and what happens when one spouse gets "pimped out." You’ll also learn the differences between periodic and lump-sum alimony, the impact of cohabitation, and the realities of facing different judges. 

This is the alimony episode everyone going through a divorce needs to hear.

Need legal insights with no legalese? You're in the right place.

📍 Recorded in Atlanta, GA | Hosted by Shewmaker & Lewis, Family Law Attorneys

Chapter Markers | Timestamps

00:00 - Intro & Horse Joke
00:35 - Today’s Topic: Alimony Deep Dive
02:01 - Is Alimony Dead in Georgia?
03:10 - What the Law Says About Alimony
04:25 - Adultery and Its Legal Consequences
06:44 - Reconciliation and Why It Matters
08:01 - Conduct That Can Affect Alimony
09:22 - Employment Expectations During Divorce
10:55 - Gender & Judge Bias in Alimony Rulings
13:24 - Understanding Your Judge: Reality vs. Statute
15:19 - Changing Social Norms & Dual-Income Households
17:01 - How Long Do You Need to Be Married to Get Alimony?
18:03 - Periodic vs. Lump Sum Alimony Explained
20:09 - Life Insurance as Alimony
21:43 - Car Payments & Modifiability
22:15 - Meretricious Relationships & Alimony Termination
23:29 - Is Alimony Still Taxable?
24:00 - What’s Coming in Future Episodes

Need legal advice?

Call us at (770) 939-1939 or visit ShewmakerandLewis.com for more.

✉️ Have questions? Email pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

🔔 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app!

Who pays for attorney fees in a divorce or family law case in Georgia? Do you always have to pay your own, or can you make your ex pick up the tab? In this candid episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, Atlanta attorneys Steve Shewmaker, Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy Lewis, and Alexa Lewis tackle one of the most common—and misunderstood—questions in family law: Who pays for attorney fees?

Get real, practical answers as the team unpacks Georgia’s “American Rule” (everyone pays their own lawyer) and the major exceptions found in family law. The hosts break down the most important Georgia statutes—OCGA 9-15-14, 19-6-2, 19-6-15, and more—that could let a judge order one party to pay the other’s fees. You’ll hear real courtroom stories, practical examples, and a behind-the-scenes look at how judges decide whether to award attorney fees.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The basics of the American Rule—and why it matters in family law
• The key Georgia laws that can shift attorney fees in divorce, custody, child support, and legitimation cases
• How bad behavior in litigation (think: stonewalling, refusing discovery, frivolous filings) can backfire under OCGA 9-15-14
• How financial disparity and access to marital funds affect fee awards under 19-6-2 and 19-6-15
• What judges really look for before granting (or denying) attorney fees
• Real-life examples of fee awards—from a few thousand to over $80,000!
• Why “hoping” the other side pays your fees is never a guarantee

Whether you’re going through a divorce, modifying child support, or dealing with custody, this episode gives you the straight truth about attorney fees in Georgia family law—and what it means for your case.

Chapter Markers | Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction: Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards
00:45 – Icebreaker: Firm Potluck and Introductions
02:01 – Today’s Topic: Attorney Fees in Georgia Family Law
03:00 – The American Rule: Does Everyone Pay Their Own Fees?
04:00 – Can the Other Side Be Ordered to Pay? (Client Questions)
05:00 – Statutes that Allow Attorney Fee Awards in Georgia
05:55 – OCGA 9-15-14: Fees for Bad Conduct in Litigation
07:00 – Real-Life Stories: Biggest Fee Awards (and Losses)
10:00 – Burden-Shifting & Frivolous Litigation
11:53 – The Most Common Statute: OCGA 19-6-2 Explained
12:10 – Financial Disparity: How Judges Decide Fee Awards
13:20 – What the Court Considers: Not Always One-Sided
14:34 – Other Key Statutes: 19-6-15 (Child Support), 19-9-3 (Custody)
15:40 – Prevailing Party & Child Support Modifications
16:39 – Proving Income & Real Examples of Fee Awards
18:05 – Burden-Shifting Provisions & Modification Traps
19:23 – Alimony Modification and Fee Awards
20:23 – Risks of Fee Awards and Real-World Outcomes
21:00 – Other Scenarios: Legitimation, Paternity, and Discovery Motions
21:40 – Temporary Protective Orders (TPO) and Attorney Fees
22:15 – Judge’s Discretion: Why Fee Awards Are Never Guaranteed
23:33 – Partial Fee Awards: Why Clients Still Owe Their Lawyer
24:40 – Case-by-Case: Why Results Vary So Much
25:00 – How to Contact the Hosts & Wrap-Up

Need legal advice?

Call us at (770) 939-1939 or visit ShewmakerandLewis.com for more.

✉️ Have questions? Email plewis@shewmakerandlewis.com

🔔 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app!

When can you legally modify a custody order in Georgia? What qualifies as a “material change in circumstances”? In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the family law attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis take you inside the courtroom and behind the statutes to explain what it takes to modify custody or parenting time in Georgia. 

Whether you’re a parent seeking joint custody, worried about your child’s safety, or just wondering what your legal options are, this episode breaks it all down with real cases, legal advice, and some off-the-record humor.

From teenage affidavits to relocation issues and everything in between, we cover the factors that matter most to judges—and the missteps that can cost you. Tune in to learn what judges really consider, what counts as a "damn good reason" to change custody, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Timestamps / Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Welcome & Joke of the Day
00:55 – Upcoming CLE in Barcelona (Spain, not Louisiana)
02:11 – Today’s Topic: Modifying Custody & Parenting Time
04:00 – What counts as a material change in circumstances?
06:10 – Visitation Modifications: Timing & Misconceptions
09:22 – The “Damn Good Reason” Standard
10:58 – Real Case Examples: From Allegations to Affidavits
14:20 – The Problem with Geographic Distance in 50/50 Custody
17:13 – Red Flags: New Partners, Drugs, and Safety Concerns
23:14 – Co-parenting Gone Wrong: Badmouthing the Other Parent
25:10 – Judges, Emojis & the Power of a Screenshot
27:23 – Military Parent Deployment (Teaser for Future Episode)
28:12 – How to Contact Us

Need legal advice?
Call us at (770) 939-1939 or visit ShewmakerandLewis.com for more.

✉️ Have questions? Email alewis@shewmakerandlewis.com

🔔 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app!

In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, your hosts from Shewmaker & Lewis—Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa—dive into one of the most misunderstood terms in family law: equitable division of property.

What does “equitable” actually mean in a Georgia divorce? Spoiler: it doesn’t always mean 50/50. With real courtroom insight and plenty of personality, the team breaks down:

• The difference between marital and separate property
• How titling and commingling can affect your claim
• Common myths like “I paid for it, so it’s mine”
• Why the date of divorce—not separation—matters in Georgia
• Real-life examples and case law like the Stokes and Shaw decisions

They even tackle quirky hypotheticals, military pensions, inheritances, and the dangers of not knowing your legal standing going into a marriage. Patty makes a confession, and there’s some fun banter, but this episode delivers serious clarity for anyone thinking about or going through a divorce in Georgia.

 Need legal advice?
 Call us at (770) 939-1939 or visit ShewmakerandLewis.com for more.

✉️ Have questions? Email pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

🔔 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app!

🎲 Child custody as a game show? It’s not as far-fetched as it sounds.

In Episode 4 of Lawyers Without Billboards, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis dive into the unpredictable world of child custody battles in Georgia. From surprise courtroom decisions to judges calling custody a “sick game show,” the team shares real stories that highlight how custody is often more about credibility, data points, and likeability than mudslinging or money.

With their signature mix of humor and hard-earned insight, Steve, Patty, Jimmy, and Alexa explore why settling custody outside of court might be the wisest move, and how being honest (even about your flaws) can make or break a case.

🎧 Episode Highlights:
✔️ Why one judge said custody is a “sick game show”
✔️ Real-world cases where honesty beat spin
✔️ How “beauty contest” logic applies to custody fights
✔️ What judges are really looking for—and what turns them off
✔️ The hilarious (and totally true) bacon tree dad joke you didn’t know you needed

📞 Need legal advice?
 Call us at (770) 939-1939 or visit ShewmakerandLewis.com for more.

✉️ Have questions? Email sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

🔔 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app!

#ChildCustody #FamilyLaw #GeorgiaLaw #CustodyBattle #DivorceLaw #LawyersWithoutBillboards #LegalPodcast #HonestParenting #GameShowCustody #CustodyTips #GeorgiaFamilyLaw

Divorce laws in Georgia may surprise you! In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis break down the 13 grounds for divorce in the state, from adultery and cruel treatment to lesser-known reasons like "impotency at the time of marriage" and "conviction of moral turpitude." The team discusses real-world cases, the impact of fault-based divorces, and how these laws apply in modern family law cases.

With their usual blend of humor and expert analysis, they also debate the real 14th ground for divorce—watching your shared Netflix series without your spouse!

Tune in for an entertaining and insightful discussion on Georgia’s divorce laws.

📲 Need legal advice?
Call us at (770) 939-1939 or visit ShewmakerandLewis.com for more insights.

🔔 Subscribe and never miss an episode! Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

🎙️ Episode Highlights:
✔️ The 13 legal grounds for divorce in Georgia
✔️ Why “cruel treatment” is often misused in court
✔️ How infidelity affects alimony claims
✔️ Funny but true divorce cases & legal loopholes

👉 Got questions? Email us at sshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com

#DivorceLaw #GeorgiaFamilyLaw #LawyersWithoutBillboards #LegalPodcast

Think you know how divorce, alimony, and custody work? Think again! In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the team at Shewmaker & Lewis dives into the biggest misconceptions about family law, covering everything from dividing assets to custody battles and alimony myths.

🔹 What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The biggest myths about divorce settlements
• How custody decisions are really made
• Whether alimony is automatic or negotiable
• The truth about 50/50 asset division
• What Hollywood gets wrong about family law

💡 Get the facts from experienced family law attorneys who know what really happens in court.

📲 Need legal advice?
Call us at (770) 939-1939 or visit ShewmakerandLewis.com for more insights.

🔔 Subscribe and never miss an episode! Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

#FamilyLaw #DivorceMyths #CustodyBattles #AlimonyTruths #LegalAdvice #ShewmakerandLewis #LawyersWithoutBillboards #DivorceAttorney

Welcome to Lawyers Without Billboards - Family Law, Unfiltered! 

Hosted by the experienced partners at Shewmaker & Lewis, including Steve & Patty Shewmaker and Jimmy & Alexa Lewis, this podcast takes a no-nonsense approach to family law. We tackle real legal issues, including divorce, custody battles, alimony, child support, and criminal law with an engaging mix of insight, humor, and real talk.

Whether you’re facing a family law challenge, working in the legal field, or simply want to understand your rights, we’re here to provide valuable guidance and bust legal myths—all without the billboard gimmicks.

In This Episode:

• The origin story of Lawyers Without Billboards.
• What domestic law really means, from divorce to legitimation.
• The myths and realities of alimony, custody, and child support.
• Lighthearted moments, movie references, and behind-the-scenes stories from the courtroom.

📲 Get In Touch:

• Call Us: (770) 939-1939
• Visit Our Website: ShewmakerandLewis.com

🔔 Stay Connected:

• Follow us on YouTube: Link to Playlist - Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to never miss an episode!
• Listen on Buzzsprout: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more!

💬 Have a Legal Question?
Drop a comment below or contact us directly. Your question might even be featured in an upcoming episode!

#LawyersWithoutBillboards #FamilyLawUnfiltered #DivorceLaw #CustodyBattles #LegalAdvice #ShewmakerLewis #FamilyLawPodcast #LegalInsights