Collaborative Law
Last updated on April 16, 2026
Collaborative law is a tool that can help couples resolve the problems of property division, custody, child support and other issues through the use of an amicable and cooperative approach. Court litigation is expensive, messy and can have a negative impact on individuals and children going through the process. In collaborative cases, the parties agree to resolve their disputes outside of court, which helps to reduce legal fees.
At the law firm of Bivek Brubaker & Prescott LLC, our Atlanta collaborative law attorneys can help individuals through this process, enabling them to save time, money, and frustration while making sure that their goals are met. This process enables clients to work with lawyers, financial planners, estate planners, mediators, divorce coaches, child psychologists and therapists in order to create a settlement agreement that serves the best interests of all the parties without spending a large sum on legal fees. Although this process might not be the right fit for everyone, it can be a great alternative to litigation.
Using Collaborative Law To Settle Family Legal Matters
Collaborative law is a process that helps individuals in a divorce or another type of family law dispute resolve their issues, including:
- Child support
- Child custody and visitation
- Division of property, retirement assets, and other assets and debts
- Alimony/spousal support
Our Marietta divorce attorneys can represent you throughout the collaborative process and advise you of your rights and choices. We are committed to providing forward-thinking solutions that help bring harmony to disharmony and lead our clients into the next phase of their lives empowered and confident.
Frequently Asked Questions About Collaborative Law
Many people are unfamiliar with the mechanics of collaborative law. Here are the answers to some common concerns.
What is the difference between collaborative law and mediation in Georgia?
Both collaborative law and mediation aim to settle disputes outside of court, which is frequently less time-consuming and more cost-effective than traditional litigation. However, collaborative law and mediation processes are different and should not be confused.
Collaborative law is a “team” approach that can involve numerous professionals, including attorneys for each party, all of whom work together to negotiate an acceptable agreement. Mediation, in contrast, involves a “third-party” neutral (the mediator). The mediator’s role is to facilitate discussions between the parties to help them try to resolve their differences, but the mediator does not take sides.
When it comes to family legal matters, a collaborative law approach can offer more comprehensive support and result in better agreements that will leave both sides satisfied.
Is collaborative law legally binding in Georgia?
Yes. If parties agree to the terms of an agreement during the collaborative law process, the agreement can be submitted to the court for approval. Once the agreement is approved and finalized, it is enforceable under Georgia law.
Can the collaborative law process fail?
Yes. The parties cannot be forced to come to an agreement. If the collaborative law process fails, the parties may need to resolve their dispute through litigation after all. It is important to understand that, in those situations, the attorneys involved in the collaborative process must withdraw, and the parties will need to seek new attorneys to represent them in court.
This rule ensures that both sides will put significant effort into making the collaboration successful. It also prevents the misuse of confidential information that may have been voluntarily exchanged during collaboration.
Who should use collaborative law in Georgia?
Anyone who wants an amicable, private settlement in situations involving divorce, the division of marital assets and debts, support issues, and child custody disputes. Collaborative law can minimize the emotional and financial strain on their lives from these kinds of situations and preserve co-parenting relationships for those with minor children.
Call For A Consultation With A Marietta Family Law Attorney
Divorce does not always have to involve drawn-out, expensive litigation. Contact our Atlanta collaborative law lawyers online or call us at 470-663-9404 to schedule a 30-minute consultation to discuss your situation.