Question 1

How much?

Accepted Answer

Our Family Law and Dependency initial consultations are $250.00. During this time, we will discuss your case in detail, provide a general plan of action, answer your questions, and explain our fee structure. Criminal Defense consultations are free.

Question 2

How long does a consultation typically last?

Accepted Answer

Family law and Dependency initial consultations typically last 45 minutes to an hour, providing enough time to discuss your case in and answer your questions. Criminal Consultations vary greatly.

Question 3

What should I bring to my consultation?

Accepted Answer

Email any relevant documents related to your case, such as court papers, police reports, contracts, medical records, or correspondence. Also email a list of questions you'd like to ask.

Question 4

Should I provide any documents prior to my consultation?

Accepted Answer

We aren’t able to review documents before the initial consultation. However, you can email relevant documents before the consultation, so that the attorney can reference them during the consultation. Relevant documents to provide would include anything you were served with, police reports or questions. It is helpful to make a list of questions that you have to reference during the consultation.

Question 5

Can I consult with you virtually?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer telephone consultations and video conference consultations for your convenience. We find that virtual consultations are often far more efficient and productive than in-person consultations, as the attorney has access to their computer during the consultation.

Question 6

How soon can I schedule a consultation?

Accepted Answer

We typically can schedule a consultation within 1-3 business days, depending on our current caseload and the urgency of your matter.

Question 7

How long will my case take?

Accepted Answer

The timeline varies significantly depending on the type of case and its complexity. During your consultation, we'll provide a realistic estimate based on your specific circumstances.

Question 8

How is property divided in a Florida divorce?

Accepted Answer

Generally, the Court first separates non-marital assets and liabilities from marital ones. After that, marital assets and debts are typically divided equally between the spouses.

However, the Court may decide on an unequal distribution if certain factors make it fair to do so. These factors can include:

1. Each spouse's contribution to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
2. The economic circumstances of each party
3. The length of the marriage
4. Any interruption of a spouse's career or education due to the marriage
5. One spouse's contribution to the other's career or education
6. The desirability of keeping an asset, such as a business, intact
7. Each spouse's role in acquiring or improving marital or non-marital assets
8. Whether it's best to keep the marital home for a dependent child
9. Any intentional waste or destruction of marital assets within two years before or after filing for divorce
10. Any other factor necessary to ensure fairness and justice

Question 9

How is child custody determined?

Accepted Answer

Florida courts make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as each parent's relationship with the child, stability, and ability to provide for the child's needs.

Question 10

Should I still hire an attorney if we agree to get divorced?

Accepted Answer

There are several reasons to still hire an attorney even if you and your spouse agree and are amicably divorcing. We can make sure that your documents and agreement are legally sufficient and address issues that you may not have thought about to make sure that you have a complete settlement.

Question 11

Am I entitled to anything from my spouse if we kept separate bank accounts?

Accepted Answer

Keeping separate bank accounts or titling homes or vehicles in individual names does not necessarily determine entitlement. If the asset or liability was acquired during the marriage, it is typically marital, subject to a few exceptions, and subject to division.

Question 12

Should I talk to the police if I'm arrested?

Accepted Answer

You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. It's generally advisable to politely decline to answer questions until you've consulted with a lawyer.

Question 13

What's the difference between a misdemeanor and felony?

Accepted Answer

Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by up to one year in jail. Felonies are more serious offenses that can result in state prison sentences of more than one year.

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