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HB 2117

Civil procedure; enacting the Uniform Collaborative Law Act; effective date.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brent Howard and 1 co-sponsor

Oklahoma enacts Uniform Collaborative Law Act, establishing legal framework and protections for parties resolving civil disputes through collaborative negotiation outside court.

Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/15/2025
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Bill Summary · HB 2117

Legislative bill overview

HB 2117 enacts Oklahoma's version of the Uniform Collaborative Law Act, a model legislation designed to provide an alternative dispute resolution framework for civil matters. The act establishes legal procedures and protections for parties who agree to resolve disputes collaboratively outside traditional litigation or arbitration.

Why is this important

This legislation creates a formal legal structure for collaborative law practices, which can reduce litigation costs, preserve relationships between disputing parties, and decrease court system burden. By standardizing collaborative law procedures across states that adopt this uniform act, it provides consistency and predictability for practitioners and participants engaged in these settlement processes.

Potential points of contention

  • Attorney role limitations: The act requires attorneys to withdraw if collaborative negotiations fail, which some may view as restricting client choice or creating inefficiencies when disputes must proceed to litigation
  • Confidentiality vs. transparency: Broad confidentiality protections in collaborative proceedings may limit public access to settlement terms and dispute outcomes, raising accountability concerns
  • Access and equity: Collaborative law typically requires both parties to hire attorneys and participate actively, potentially limiting access for low-income individuals who cannot afford dual legal representation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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