Divorce is never easy, but understanding the process can help ease some of the stress. In 2025 and moving into 2026, couples in the Atlanta metro area are facing the same core issues of divorce property division, child custody, and support, but with new considerations such as rising living costs, blended family dynamics, and evolving court schedules.

At The Law Offices of Sean R. Whitworth, we guide clients through every stage of divorce with honesty, clarity, and compassion. With nearly two decades of experience in family law in Marietta and Atlanta, Sean R. Whitworth knows how to balance realistic outcomes with strong advocacy.

1. Filing the Petition
One spouse must file a petition for divorce in the Superior Court of the county where they live. This begins the legal process. Georgia is a no-fault divorce state, meaning couples can cite irreconcilable differences without proving wrongdoing.

2. Temporary Hearings
Early in the process, the court may schedule temporary hearings to address urgent issues like child custody, child support, or spousal support. These orders remain in effect until the final divorce decree.

3. Discovery and Negotiation
Both parties exchange financial and personal information, known as discovery. This stage is often where most disputes arise, including property division, debts, and parenting schedules. Negotiation and mediation are encouraged to reach agreements without trial.

4. Mediation or Trial
Many counties in the Atlanta area, including Cobb, Fulton, and DeKalb, require mediation before proceeding to trial. If agreements cannot be reached, the case will go before a judge and in some cases, a jury.

5. Final Decree
Once all matters are resolved, the court issues a Final Judgment and Decree of Divorce. This document outlines custody, child support, alimony, and property division, making the divorce official.

• Rising Costs of Living: Child support and alimony calculations may be influenced by inflation and higher living expenses in the Atlanta area.
• Remote Hearings: Some counties still allow virtual hearings for convenience, while others require in-person appearances.
• Custody Arrangements: Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, but parenting plans have become more detailed to account for school schedules, extracurriculars, and travel.
• Property Division: With real estate values continuing to shift in 2025, dividing marital homes and investments requires careful planning and negotiation.

One of the most stressful parts of divorce can be the cost of legal representation. Many attorneys bill by the hour, leaving clients unsure of what their final bill will be. At The Law Offices of Sean R. Whitworth, we believe in transparency and affordability.

Sean R. Whitworth offers flat fee representation for divorce and family law cases. This means clients know upfront what their legal fees will be, no surprises, no hidden costs. With flat fees, you can plan financially and focus on what matters most: your future.

The Law Offices of Sean R. Whitworth proudly serves clients across the Atlanta area, including Marietta, Cobb County, Fulton County, DeKalb County, Cherokee County, and surrounding communities. Our firm is known for straightforward guidance, compassionate support, and results driven representation.

If you are considering divorce in 2025 or 2026, you deserve a lawyer who will guide you through the process with honesty and clarity. Contact The Law Offices of Sean R. Whitworth in Marietta to learn more about how flat fee representation can provide peace of mind during a challenging time.