Marietta, Georgia · Family Law
Compassionate divorce & family lawyers in Marietta.
Going through a divorce or custody matter is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our boutique Marietta firm brings steady guidance, genuine care, and serious courtroom strength — so you can protect what matters most.
How we help
Family law, every chapter of it.
From the first hard conversation to the final order, we handle the full range of Georgia family law — always with your family's well-being at the center.
Divorce
Contested, uncontested, collaborative, gray, high-net-worth, military, and LGBTQ+ divorce.
Custody & Support
Custody, visitation, child support, and modifications focused on your children's well-being.
Father's Rights
Establishing and protecting fathers' rights, paternity, and legitimation across Georgia.
Property & Alimony
Equitable division of assets and spousal support, with a clear-eyed financial strategy.
Domestic Violence & TPO
Urgent protection and temporary protective orders when safety can't wait.
Prenup & Postnup
Thoughtful agreements that protect both partners and begin a marriage with clarity.
Family law is never just legal. It's personal — and we treat it that way.
Why Better Law
A different kind of family-law firm.
You, not a case number
You work directly with your attorney. Fewer clients, deeper attention, real relationships.
Rooted in our community
A Black woman-owned Marietta firm that reflects and serves the families of metro Atlanta.
Unafraid of the courtroom
Recognized strength in custody and fathers' rights — and ready to fight when it matters.
All of metro Atlanta
From Cobb to Gwinnett to Henry — 11 counties, with deep familiarity in each county's courts.
Our firm
Family law, with a human touch.
Better Law was built on a simple belief: people in the middle of a family crisis deserve a lawyer who is both deeply capable and genuinely kind.
“We treat your family the way we'd want ours treated — with honesty, heart, and a real plan.”
Founding attorney Melaniece Davis built Better Law to practice law that way — boutique, personal, and unflinching when your family's future is on the line.
How we work
A clear path, start to finish.
Consultation
We listen first — a focused sit-down to understand your situation, your goals, and your options.
Strategy
A clear, honest plan: what to expect, what it costs, and the path to the outcome you need.
Representation
Steady, prepared advocacy — whether we're negotiating or standing up for you in court.
Resolution
We get you to the other side: protected, informed, and ready for what comes next.
In their words
Families we've stood beside.
“They care about you like you're family — about your case, your child, and the outcome more than I thought was possible. If you're a good dad who feels lost in litigation, this is undoubtedly the firm you want on your side.”
— Robert B., father's rights client
“She took my contempt case after my ex stopped paying what he owed under our decree — and I was awarded every penny, including attorney's fees. Attorney Davis and her team made me feel so covered and confident the entire time.”
— Nena A., Fulton County
“From the moment we spoke, she was professional, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable. I truly felt heard and supported… I highly recommend Better Law and Attorney Melaniece Davis.”
— Cecelia T.
“Working with Attorney Anderson was an absolute pleasure — thorough, communicative, and knowledgeable about the divorce process. I would highly recommend this firm; they are extreme professionals.”
— Cydney R.
“My case was unique, long, and very stressful, and I was extremely frustrated. But these ladies calmed me and did everything I needed… If you're looking for an attorney to go above and beyond and fight for your rights, this is the team for you.”
— Michael H., custody client
“Attorney Davis is both pleasant and extremely professional — a rare mix. I was referred to her because she has 'a heart of gold,' and indeed she does.”
— Nkoli A.
Questions & answers
Georgia family law, explained.
How long does a divorce take in Georgia?
An uncontested divorce can be finalized about 30 days after your spouse is served — Georgia's minimum waiting period. Contested cases involving custody or property typically take several months to a year, depending on the issues and your county's court schedule.
How much does a divorce cost in Georgia?
It depends on whether your divorce is contested. An uncontested divorce costs far less than a litigated one. In your consultation we give you an honest, specific estimate for your situation — no surprises.
Do I have to go to court to get divorced?
Often, no. Many Georgia divorces are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or a settlement agreement without a trial. When court is necessary — usually over custody or finances — we're fully prepared to advocate for you there.
How is child custody decided in Georgia?
Georgia courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child, weighing each parent's relationship with the child, stability, and ability to provide care. Both legal custody (decision-making) and physical custody (where the child lives) are addressed.
Can an unmarried father get custody or visitation in Georgia?
Yes — but first he must establish legal fatherhood through legitimation. Until a father legitimates, the mother has sole legal custody. Legitimation is one of our core focus areas, and we guide fathers through every step.
How is child support calculated in Georgia?
Georgia uses an 'income shares' model based on both parents' combined income, the number of children, and certain expenses like health insurance and childcare. We walk you through exactly what the guidelines mean for your numbers.
Insights
Helpful, plain-language guides.
Uncontested Divorce in Georgia: What It Means and How It Works
For Georgia couples who agree on the major issues, an uncontested divorce is a faster, less expensive path — but it still carries specific legal requirements and a binding settlement agreement worth getting right.
May 26, 2026
Contested Divorce in Georgia: What to Expect When Spouses Don't Agree
When spouses can't agree on property, custody, support, or alimony, a Georgia divorce becomes contested — here's how the process works, from filing through trial, and how to protect yourself.
May 18, 2026
How Is Child Support Calculated in Georgia? Marietta Child Support Attorney Explains
A Marietta attorney explains how Georgia calculates child support using the Income Shares Model, which income and expense factors matter, and how support can be modified or enforced.
Mar 26, 2026Where we practice
Serving families across metro Atlanta.
Based in Marietta, we represent clients in family-law matters across 11 metro-Atlanta counties — with hands-on familiarity in each county's Superior Court.
- Cobb County · Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna
- Gwinnett County · Lawrenceville, Duluth
- Douglas County · Douglasville
- DeKalb County · Decatur
- Fulton County · Atlanta, South Fulton
- Cherokee County · Canton, Woodstock
- Forsyth County · Cumming
- Henry County · McDonough
- Fayette County · Fayetteville
- Paulding County · Dallas
- Carroll County · Carrollton
Begin a conversation
Let's talk about your family's next chapter.
Tell us what's going on. We'll listen, explain your options in plain language, and help you decide the right next step — no pressure.
Marietta, GA 30060