Virginia § 20-179 - Appropriateness of collaborative law process
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 20-179 — Appropriateness of collaborative law process, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-179. Appropriateness of collaborative law process
Before a prospective party signs a collaborative law participation agreement, a prospective collaborative lawyer shall:
1. Assess with the prospective party factors the lawyer reasonably believes relate to whether a collaborative law process is appropriate for the prospective party's matter;
2. Provide the prospective party with information that the lawyer reasonably believes is sufficient for the party to make an informed decision about the material benefits and risks of a collaborative law process as compared to the material benefits and risks of other reasonably available alternatives for resolving the proposed collaborative matter, such as litigation, mediation, arbitration, or expert evaluation; and
3. Advise the prospective party that:
a. After signing a collaborative law participation agreement, if a party initiates a proceeding or seeks tribunal intervention in a pending proceeding related to the collaborative matter, the collaborative law process terminates;
b. Participation in a collaborative law process is voluntary, and any party has the right to unilaterally terminate a collaborative law process with or without cause; and
c. The collaborative lawyer and any lawyer in a law firm with which the collaborative lawyer is associated may not appear before a tribunal to represent a party in a proceeding related to the collaborative matter, except as authorized by subsection C of § 20-175 or by § 20-176.
2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 346.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 20-179
What does Code of Virginia § 20-179 cover?
Section 20-179 ("Appropriateness of collaborative law process") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 20-179?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 20-179" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 20-179 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.