Laura Coleman | Milton Family Lawyer

• Member | Florida State Bar Association

Recently I had a case that centered around a retirement issue. The former husband had paid a large sum of money as a prepayment of his military retirement. The parties did not have a written agreement for him to do so, but the former wife gladly accepted the money. Years after the former husband began receiving his military retirement the former wife filed a contempt, alleging he has failed to pay monthly for the past four years. The wife was seeking $89,000 plus interest, plus attorney's fees. Because we prevailed, we were able to get him a $133,000 credit towards his retirement obligation, versus the requirement that he immediately payback $89,000 plus interest, plus costs. The biggest impact in these cases, however, is when dealing with small children. It is rewarding to see the kids grow up and become well adjusted young adults who are close to BOTH parents after their divorce. I had a very contentious case years ago and saw the then young child, who is now a young adult, working in the mall. She recognized my name on my debit card, and told me who she was. She advised that her parents are good friends now, and that she is very close with them both. I was overjoyed to meet her as a young adult, and was so thrilled to know that all was going well for everyone.

My practice is located in a small town, and there is a lot of business that is received by word of mouth. I'd like to think that I built a successful practice by consistently striving hard for the best result for our client while also ensuring that the parties are treated with caring and compassion. I have learned that in family law, there is no need to be nasty, as the parties must remain as a family unit if there are young children. We tend to be aggressive behind the scene in terms of engaging in discovery and determining whether we have all the necessary financial information. However, my style is to be more caring and compassionate while in court.

Clients should look for a lawyer who they feel comfortable with, first and foremost. However, they should also look online and read reviews. The should definitely spend some time trying to learn as much as they can about their chosen lawyer. Hiring a lawyer is an investment, and I have heard many horror stories about some of the bad ones. I also have learned that if a client does not feel comfortable initially they probably will not ever feel completely at ease with that lawyer. If something does not feel right, seek other counsel.

I think local knowledge is very important to the success of a case. I practice law in a small town. We have one family lawyer, and one magistrate who hears family law cases. There is quite a bit of discretion in family law, and it is important to know how your particular judge views different circumstances. I understand that the practice of law in a big city with multiple judges would be a vastly different experience, but I believe, in my practice, my unique knowledge of the judge's preferences gives me an advantage.

We don't offer free consultations. Family law is different from personal injury law, in that personal injury lawyers are required to offer a free consultation. In my consultations, I spend well over an hour, sometimes two, listening to individuals share details about their marriages, their lives, their kids, and I give them solid legal advice and a multitude of information to take with them advising as to what they need to do to develop a plan for moving forward.