For nearly five decades, the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Georgia has helped advance the practice of family law through education, leadership, professionalism, and service. What began as the vision of a small group of Georgia attorneys has grown into a statewide community of nearly 2,000 members and one of the largest sections of the State Bar of Georgia.

The Family Law Section was formally established on June 5, 1976, becoming the 13th section created within the State Bar of Georgia.

Its origins date to 1975, when eight Georgia lawyers petitioned the State Bar to establish a section dedicated specifically to family law. Among those early leaders were Jack P. Turner, Harry Hall, Bob Reinhart, Paul V. Kilpatrick, and future Supreme Court of Georgia Justice G. Conley Ingram.

Following approval by the State Bar's Board of Governors, Jack P. Turner became the Section's first chair. Membership dues were just $3 per year.

The creation of the Section came at an important time for the profession. Family law had not yet developed the organization, specialized resources, or professional recognition it enjoys today. Through decades of collaboration among attorneys, judges, legislators, and other leaders, the Section helped strengthen family law as a distinct and respected area of practice in Georgia.

Education has been central to the Section's mission from its earliest years. In 1976, Jack Turner began producing and distributing a newsletter to help family law attorneys deepen their knowledge and encourage thoughtful, professional advocacy. That early publication ultimately became The Family Law Review, which continues to provide practitioners with insight into developments affecting family law in Georgia. Today, the Review includes analysis of emerging legal issues, appellate decisions, legislative developments, court rules, practice guidance, and perspectives from members of Georgia's judiciary and family law community.

In 1983, the Section held its first Family Law Institute, beginning what would become one of its most enduring traditions.

The Institute was initiated under Chair M.T. Simmons and organized by incoming Chair C. Wilbur Warner. Its purpose was twofold: to provide sophisticated continuing legal education for family law practitioners and to create opportunities for attorneys from across Georgia to develop stronger professional relationships.

That vision continues today. The Family Law Institute has grown into the Section's signature educational and professional gathering, bringing together attorneys, judges, speakers, and other members of the family law community for substantive education, professional development, and connection.

The Section has expanded its educational programming through Nuts and Bolts of Family Law, seminars, webinars, and other continuing legal education opportunities to support practitioners at different stages of their careers.

The Section's history is also deeply connected to the advancement of professionalism within family law. In 1992, John C. Mayoue established the Family Law Convocation on Professionalism in response to the Supreme Court of Georgia's professionalism initiative. The program created a forum for candid discussion among respected attorneys and judges about ethics, professionalism, and the responsibilities unique to family law practice.

Following Mayoue's death in 2016, the program was renamed the John C. Mayoue Family Law Convocation on Professionalism in recognition of his contributions and enduring legacy.

That commitment to collegiality, integrity, and professional excellence remains an important part of the Section's identity.

Beyond professional education, the Family Law Section has played an important role in the development of Georgia family law.

We've worked with members of the Georgia General Assembly, the judiciary, and other stakeholders to provide insight on legislation, court rules, and significant legal issues affecting Georgia families and family law practitioners.

Over the decades, the Section's work and participation have contributed to important developments including:

• Georgia's first Child Support Guidelines in 1986
• Creation of the Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit
• Extension of child support in qualifying circumstances
• The Supreme Court of Georgia's 2003 pilot project
• Adoption of Guardian ad Litem Uniform Superior Court Rule 24.9
• New Child Support Guidelines in 2007
• Modification of Georgia's child custody statute in 2008
• Adoption of a new Domestic Relations Long Arm Statute in 2010
• Revision of Georgia's antenuptial agreement statute in 2018

The Section has also participated in legislative and judicial committees and has been invited to provide amicus participation in matters before Georgia's appellate courts.

From eight lawyers with a vision for a stronger practice community to nearly 2,000 members across Georgia, the Family Law Section's history reflects the growth and evolution of family law itself.

The Section builds on that foundation by educating practitioners, promoting professionalism, monitoring legal developments, supporting the next generation of family law attorneys, and creating opportunities for meaningful connection throughout Georgia's legal community.

Nearly 50 years after its founding, the mission remains clear: to strengthen the practice of family law and support the professionals who serve Georgia's families.