I know if you are visiting my website you are probably searching for information about family law matters or frantically searching for the right attorney to represent you or a family member. It’s very difficult to discern reliable information from unreliable information and, perhaps, even harder to find an attorney just by searching online. There are many really terrific lawyers out there from which you can choose. Here’s a little basic information about me.
I’ve been an attorney for over thirty (30) years in-total and for twenty nine (29) years in the State of Florida. I have dedicated my practice for the last twenty Three (23) years to marital and family law.. I became Board Certified in Marital and Family law in 2013, so I am permitted to refer to myself as a specialist or expert in my field. I do family law because, like most lawyers, I want to help people through difficult times. I want to help them make good decisions that will allow them to move forward in their lives with as many of their assets intact as possible and, most importantly, with children who are as unscathed by the process as possible. I understand that when a marriage is ending, or a child is in trouble, it is very difficult to think rationally, to make good decisions and to focus on what is truly important. I try to help my clients make the best decisions possible for themselves and their families. Sometimes this involves working toward settlements and sometimes we take matters to court. I fight hard for my clients when they need it. I also encourage my clients to arrive at mutually agreed upon settlements when appropriate. Every case is different, and I try to always recognize my client’s individual needs and treat them with respect.
The most exciting aspect of practicing in the area of family law, today, is the diversity of services I am able to provide to my clients. Litigating a case is no longer the only option available. There are many alternatives such as mediation, limited representation, and Collaborative Divorce. I have been a Certified Family Law Mediator for over twenty (20) years and I love helping people reach agreements through Mediation. I am also a Collaboratively trained professional. Collaborative divorce is a really innovative way of approaching divorce where both parties agree not to go to court and commit to reaching a settlement.
I received my Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with double majors in Music (Piano) and Philosophy from Bowling Green State University. I received my Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from the University of Toledo and was admitted to practice in the State of West Virginia in 1991. I was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1995 and have lived and practiced here ever since. I started out as an Assistant State Attorney in West Virginia then joined a private firm for a few years. In Florida, I worked as an Assistant Public Defender and was a partner in a law firm from 2001-2008. I opened my own practice dedicated to family law in 2008.
If you want to learn more about my background, experience, or need any additional information about me or my firm, please feel free to call my office. I wish you the best and I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.