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also known as Marlys Bergstrom
Marlys brings 25 years of legal and financial experience to the SM&P team. After working as legal counsel in two “Big Eight” accounting firms for 11 years, Marlys moved from accounting and tax law into divorce law. She had always wanted to be a divorce attorney since she began law school.
“Life took me a different way,” she explained, “and when I had the chance, I made the transition to family law.” To that end, she launched her law firm in Marietta. After seven years in solo practice, she realized she could learn and do more in a bigger firm.
“Since opening my own firm, I have always heard of Stearns Law. And I wanted to be part of a strong, dedicated, and kind team of individuals. I had worked with some of their attorneys and was always impressed with their professionalism. So, when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped.”
“When I met Mary (the firm’s founding and managing partner) and her team, I was struck but not surprised by their responsiveness,” Marlys said. “I have a great deal of admiration for Mary. What she has accomplished in establishing and continuing with SM&P is truly impressive.”
Marlys believes Mary was intrigued by her background prior to family law and, most importantly, her maturity. “Marlys has been out in the working world for a very long time,” said Mary. “Her 11 years in public accounting make her a special prize. Many of our clients going through divorce or estate planning deal with financial issues. She is a great asset to them. Furthermore, her enthusiasm is contagious. We look forward to having her work with us from our Marietta office.”
“I think my approachability and ability to empathize with my clients sets me apart,” Marlys said. Clients agree. They have described her as smart, empathetic, always available, supportive, and honest.
“And I love what I do,” she said. “I try to treat everyone -- clients, opposing counsel, court staff -- the way I would want to be treated. However, I can turn on a dime and be just as tough as the next attorney when that respect is not reciprocated.”
Marlys is a transplanted Californian who now claims Georgia as her adopted state. “One of the many things I like about Georgia is the seasons,” she said, “except for summer. I prefer summer in San Francisco where it’s cool and foggy.”
When not working, Marlys, a golfer since she was 10, spends time on the greens all over the area, including Canton, Johns Creek, and Waleska. She loves to hike, giving Red Top Mountain a special shout-out. She shares her Marietta home with two dogs -- Grisham, a 127-pound bloodhound, and 13-pound Gracie Mae, a Chiweenie. “I hate to admit it,” she said, “but I love to watch reality television. I’m also a big chocolate and ice cream fan.”
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Chat withState: Georgia
Acquired: 2013
No misconduct found
State: California
Acquired: 1997
No misconduct found
291 SE Alexander Street, Marietta, GA, 30060
20 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 reviews | General Knowledge
Posted by anonymous | November 04, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody
I can trust her
The most important thing in the world to me is my children's safety and wellbeing. My case would be a sensitive subject for any parent; Bergstrom & Associates realize that and are just as dedicated to protecting my child. I was worried that I wouldn't find the right representation. I have too ma...
Posted by James | October 30, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
caring law firm
Marlys and her staff have been wonderful during the ongoing process of my divorce and custody case. They have been there for me helping me understand and get through this every step of the way. Even after normal office hours and on weekends if I have any problems or major concerns. I would recommend ...
Posted by Paloma | February 19, 2015 | Divorce & Separation
Simply Amazing
Going through so many things at once, Marlys has really just taken a burden off of my shoulders. She has been helpful since day 1. She is very professional and knowledgeable. At the same time, she is right there when you need her. I would not want to be going through a divorce without her on my side....
Posted by Michelle | February 19, 2015 | Child Support
Honest and Caring Lawyer
Lawyers tend to have a negative reputation, but Marlys has shown me that is not always the case. She knows what she is doing, and produces results. She is honest and upfront, no beating around the bush, and completely straightforward. She actually cares about her cases and her clients and I find this...
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2016
Certified Lead Counsel Rating -Divorce, The Lead Council Review Board
2016
Certified Lead Counsel Rated-Family Law, The Lead Counsel Review Board
2016
Certified Lead Counsel Rated Attorney-Estate Planning Law, The Lead Counsel Review Board
2016
Top 10 Attorneys & Firms Award, American Institute of Legal Counsel
2016
10 Best Client Satisfaction Award-Family Law Attorneys, American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2016
Peer Review Rated For Ethical Standards and Legal Ability, Lexis Nexis Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Best Family Law & Divorce Attorney, Thumbtack Professional Attorney Review
2013
Heartland Pride Award, Youth Pride Organization
2021 - Present
Associate Attorney, Stearns-Montgomery & Proctor
1900 - Present
Associate, Stearns-Montgomery & Proctor
2014 - 2021
Managing Partner, Bergstrom & Associates, LLC
2010 - 2014
Attorney, Sutherland Asbill & Brennan, LLP Attorneys At Law
2005 - 2010
Director, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, LLP
2015 - Present
Cobb County Bar AssociationMember
2014 - Present
State Bar of Georgia, Family Law SectionMember
2014 - Present
Cobb County Chamer of CommerceMember
2014 - Present
Georgia Legal ServicesMember
2014 - Present
State Bar of Georgia - Elder Law SectionMember
2014 - Present
East Cobb Business AssociationMember
2014 - Present
Legal Management Institute-Cornell University of LawMember
2013 - Present
State Bar of GeorgiaMember
2013 - Present
Atlanta Bar AssociationMember
2013 - Present
American Bar Association - Taxation CommitteeChair
2013 - Present
Youth Pride OrganizationChair
2009 - Present
Unclaimed Property & Professionals AssociationMember/Speaker
1997 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
1997 - Present
State Bar of CaliforniaMember
2001
LL.M - Master of Laws
2000
Master of Taxation
1997
MA - Masters
1996
Doctor of Jurisprudence
1987
BA - Bachelor of Arts
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English