Family Law
When your family is facing significant change, choosing the right law firm to represent your best interests is of the utmost importance.
The Sutton Law Firm, with locations in St. Petersburg, Bartow, and Lakeland, FL, offers a range of family law services to meet your needs.
Family law attorney Debra J. Sutton, along with attorney Matthew J. Kovschak, can provide the legal counsel you and your family need...
Request a Consultation Today
When disputes within your family become legal matters, you need an attorney who has proven that they are capable of protecting what matters most to you. For more than 30 years, Debra J. Sutton has helped clients triumph through some of the most difficult experiences of their lives. Request your consultation with Ms. Sutton today:
Sutton Law Firm
Your Family Law Advocates
The need to consult a family law attorney can arise from a range of occurrences in Florida which is why we handle a range of practice areas. While adoption can be an exciting time for a growing family, a child custody battle can be a stressful process. Regardless of your family law needs, the Sutton Law Firm can provide the legal counsel you need. Debra Sutton is Board Certified in marital and family law and has been advocating for clients throughout Polk County and St. Petersburg for over 25 years. Our boutique law firm can provide you with the individualized attention you deserve to resolve your family law matters and protect your best interests.
5-Star Client Reviews "She has changed everything for me."
Eduardo Vargas
Bartow, FL
2023
Mrs Sutton was very knowledgeable and honest; after her reviewing my case , my old attorney fail to complete and follow the correct step to have a better chance to win my case. Mrs Sutton counsel me and my girlfriend to avoid future mistake and will be glad to hired her for future family case.
View on GoogleBryan Ski
Bartow, FL
2023
For 2 years I hit walls in my divorce and child custody untill 6 months ago when I found Debra Sutton. I can't began to tell you how much she has changed everything for me. I was on the verge of losing everything when I walked into her office and now she has not only gotten me back my children but more then then I expected.
View on GoogleDivorce & Marital Dissolution
Whether you are seeking a divorce, legal separation, or annulment of your marriage in Bartow, Lakeland, or St. Petersburg, FL, our team of family law attorneys can help you navigate the legal system and ensure your rights are fully protected.
Legal Separation
Florida family law does not allow a formal legal separation, but there are legal agreements that can achieve a similar result for those who prefer this status over a divorce.
Annulment
A civil annulment, which declares a marriage never existed in the eyes of the law, is difficult to obtain. That being said, an annulment can be granted on very specific grounds.
Complex Divorce
Some divorce cases involve substantial assets and the need to divide marital property that may include a family-owned business, multiple investment accounts, art collections, and multi-million dollar homes. Because these cases can have incredible levels of complexity, our team can collaborate with forensic accountants and other professionals in order to protect the rights of our clients.
Additional Legal Services Related to Family Separation
After a marital dissolution in Bartow, Lakeland, or St. Petersburg, FL, property division and conflicts pertaining to child custody are key issues that need to be addressed. We are well-versed in these practice areas including:
Division of
Property and Assets
When a marriage is ending, property division is one of the primary issues decided by the spouses or a judge. Florida law uses an equitable distribution process to determine the division of assets and debts. It is important to keep in mind that equitable does not necessarily mean equal. Characterizing property as separate, marital, or co-mingled is the key to determining the division of real estate, investment accounts, jewelry, automobiles, and other assets. The family lawyers at Sutton Law Firm can help you navigate these complicated issues in order to protect your best interests.
Time Sharing
During a separation, Florida family courts seek to encourage a child’s frequent and continuing contact with both parents.
The Sutton Law Firm, with offices in Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, FL, can help protect your time sharing rights with a strong time sharing case. We can help you work out a fair time sharing plan through custody and visitation so that your children can enjoy a healthy relationship with both parents.
Contact Debra J. Sutton Board Certified in Marital and Family Law
If you are facing a change in your family, our team understands the difficulties you are going through. The Sutton Law Firm serving Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, FL, is here to help clients at each step of the legal process so that you can move forward with your life.
Clients who have hired Debra J. Sutton for their family law needs recommend her because:
- Debra Sutton has been Florida Board Certified as a specialist in marital and family law matters since 2001.
- She has used her skills as a family law attorney, and those of her undergraduate studies in psychology, to assist more than 2,000 families.
- She is compassionate, prepared, and a substantial source of knowledge.
- She will include you at each step in the process, building your confidence and helping you plan with a purpose both during and following the litigation.
To schedule a consultation at one of our three law offices serving Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, FL, contact us online or call:
(863) 533-8912
"Debra Sutton has been amazing!" More 5-Star Client Reviews
Anita Rodriguez
Bartow, FL
2023
I highly recommend Ms.Sutton to everyone. She has incredible knowledge and very professional. Her and her staff, the ladies at the office went above and beyond, listened to me and helped me and my children through a very difficult case. They are kind and caring human being. I am forever grateful to the Sutton Law firm.
View on GoogleChelsea Faulkner
Bartow, FL
2023
Mrs Debra Sutton has been amazing! Very up front and honest! She has so much knowledge and know how about the laws and how to handle situations. My husband Has been fighting his ex wife for almost 8 yrs now and everything is a fight. Our previous lawyer wasn’t doing squat about her and her actions. So we hired Ms Sutton and yes she is pricey, but she works with you in payments, and she gets the job done. That saying you pay for what you get is the truth. You can’t go wrong if you hire her and her team to get the job done!
View on GoogleCollaborative Law Settle Your Matters Out of Court
Married couples in Polk County and St. Petersburg facing an amicable separation can benefit from the collaborative law process. By discussing and settling your matters out of court, you can reduce anxiety while saving time and expenses. Of course, it is important to keep in mind that during the collaborative law process, our attorneys can only represent one spouse.
Our collaborative law services include...
Mediation
Divorce mediation allows you to resolve issues of contention with the help of a mediator rather than a judge. Each party retains an attorney for legal advice, and the parties work together to come to an agreement on as many issues as possible. The mediator then helps the parties negotiate any remaining disputes until a mediation agreement is reached. Debra Sutton has served as a Supreme Court certified family law mediator and can help you through the mediation process.
Uncontested Divorce
If both parties can work together to reach an agreement pertaining to property, custody, alimony, and other issues, divorce can be relatively simple. In an uncontested divorce, pleadings and supporting papers need to be prepared and filed with the court, including a detailed settlement agreement and, if children are involved, a parenting plan. It is always a good idea to have a family law attorney to assist you with this paperwork and review your settlement agreement.
Collaborative Divorce
In this innovative process, a divorcing couple and their individual attorneys enter a binding agreement to resolve all issues without court intervention. The lawyers provide guidance as you and your spouse collaborate to work through disputes and come to terms. Neutral experts are retained to provide any needed supportive information during the process. The attorneys at our firm can help you reach a satisfactory resolution during a collaborative divorce.
Spousal Payments
Our family law attorneys can help clients in Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg determine fair spousal payment plans.
Alimony
Alimony may be awarded to either the husband or wife in a divorce or legal separation. In Florida, alimony is calculated considering the length of the marriage, the age and health of both spouses, and each spouse’s financial status during and at the end of the marriage. The standard of living during the marriage is a factor, along with a spouse’s time spent in child-rearing or supporting the other’s career development.
Child Support
Child support awards are determined by the income and earning capacity of both parents, child care costs, child custody arrangements or the amount of time the child spends with each parent, and other factors. We can also assist with child support enforcement or help modify an existing order where support is too high or too low.
Are You Considering a Divorce?
Divorce is incredibly personal. Even if you are confident in your decision, it can be scary. We understand there are many unknowns and that significant changes are about to occur in your life.
First and foremost, creating a solid plan with a trusted confidant is critical. Debra will act as more than your lawyer. She will include you at each step in the process, helping you plan with a purpose both during and following the litigation. At the conclusion of each case, our firm provides exit appointments at no charge to ensure that clients can move forward with confidence.
Take the first step towards putting your needs first today. Contact our lawyer by requesting a consultation online or call:
(863) 533-8912
A Father Explains the Value of Hiring Debra Sutton
"I could write a book about the amazing treatment I have received since hiring Ms Sutton, but I will try not to. I am incredibly grateful that I did my research and found the Sutton law firm because it has literally been the difference between being able to be a real meaningful part of my daughter's life or just an occasional visitor."
Donny Woodington, 5-Star Google Review
A Welcoming Environment
Our offices are comfortable and non-intimidating, making them an ideal location for meetings related to collaborative divorces.
More Than a Beautiful Office Space
Sutton Law Firm is based out of Mann Manor, a historical home that provides a welcome respite for clients.
From the moment you walk in the door, you will be treated with courtesy and professionalism.
From the moment you walk in the door, you will be treated with courtesy and professionalism.
Written Agreements
Our lawyers can assist couples in the creation of legally binding contracts, such as...
Prenuptial Agreements
Some couples seek to resolve financial issues pertaining to divorce before entering into a marriage. A prenuptial agreement can be a wise decision if you are coming into a marriage with substantial assets, or have heirs for whom you would like to provide.
Postnuptial Agreements
A postnuptial agreement accomplishes the same goal but is entered into after marriage, perhaps to ease a spouse’s anxiety. A postnuptial agreement can also serve as a legal document for a couple who wishes to live apart yet remain married.
A Team of Family Law Attorneys Dedicated to Providing World-Class Counsel
Sutton Law Firm serves the legal needs of Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, FL, and we strive to provide our clients with the respect and legal counsel they need when their family is facing tough times. If you are in need of a family law attorney, we encourage you to request a consultation with our team today.
During an initial consultation, we educate clients about the legal process they face so that they can be prepared for the road ahead. We will continue to keep you informed every step of the way so that you always have a good idea about the status and direction of your case. It is our goal to ensure our clients can make every decision with confidence, even when the case is resolved.
We welcome all kinds of clients, including those with limited finances, those with disabilities or special needs, and those with a high net worth.
To learn more about how we can help or to schedule a consultation at one of our three law offices, contact us online or call:
"Look no further."
Uzuel Arteaga
Bartow, FL
2022
If your looking for a Lawfirm that will take your case personally and get you results, look no further. Having Debra’s extensive legal knowledge, intimidating presence and shear confidence on your side of the courtroom is truly a comforting feeling. I definitely recommend them to anyone who wants results.
View on GoogleDawn Weikle
Bartow, FL
2022
For the first time in my life, I needed to hire an attorney and I highly recommend Debra Sutton and Sutton law firm. Sutton Law Firm came highly recommended to me, and I have not been disappointed. Debra is deeply knowledgeable of the collaborative law process. Debra and her staff have helped me through an exceedingly challenging time in my life. The whole staff is always thoughtful and caring while I am in the office. I will use Sutton Law Firm in the future if I have need of legal services.
View on GoogleOther Family Law Services
The Sutton Law Firm helps clients throughout Polk County and St. Petersburg, FL, with their family law needs. Additional services we provide include...
Post-Judgment Enforcement
Divorce papers signed by a family court judge are legally binding and fully enforceable. Still, it is not uncommon for a spouse to try to ignore a court order for child or spousal support or to deny a parent visitation rights. Whether it means garnishing wages or seizing assets, the team at Sutton Law Firm, with offices in Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, FL, are here to help protect your legal rights.
Post-Judgment Modifications
Modifications are requests to change court orders because of significantly changed circumstances that affect someone's ability to maintain their legal obligations. If you have experienced a job loss, relocation, or an issue regarding your children, you may have a legal basis to obtain a post-judgment modification for custody or other matters.
Jurisdictional & Venue Disputes
Family law jurisdictional disputes can be complex. Questions arise when a parent interferes with custody arrangements by moving with a child to another state, or moves and then files for divorce. Which state should decide the case? In a venue dispute, the parties argue over the location of the court that may adjudicate a family law issue. This question is decided based upon convenience and other factors, with the needs of the child always given priority.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence should never be tolerated, and the attorneys at Sutton Law are committed to taking all necessary action to protect our clients. Conversely, a spouse can be falsely accused of domestic violence, sometimes in an effort to gain an advantage in child custody negotiations. In this case, we will work to establish our client's innocence and protect his or her rights.
Paternity
Our firm represents clients in paternity actions. A paternity suit may be brought by a mother seeking child support, or the state may file for support against a non-custodial parent. A father may sue to establish his paternity and establish a role in his child’s life, or he may seek to disprove paternity to avoid paying child support.
Guardianship & Adoption
Our lawyers can help a step-parent, grandparents, or other family members gain guardianship of a child in order to provide a stable environment. The Sutton Law Firm can also help potential parents with the adoption process. Adoption can be complex, but our lawyers in Bartow, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, FL, can provide much-needed legal support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Florida
Am I eligible to file for divorce in Florida?
If you or your spouse have lived in Florida for at least six months, you can file for divorce here. You can prove residency with a driver's license, voter registration, or third-party testimony.
I need to relocate. How will this affect child custody?
If you need to move 50 miles or farther away from your current address, you and your child's other parent must reach an agreement regarding visitation and submit it to the court. If an agreement can't be reached, you must file a petition to relocate. The non-relocating parent will have 20 days to respond; if they miss the deadline, the courts may grant the relocation. If the non-relocating parent objects, court hearings will determine whether to allow the relocation. An attorney can be invaluable in representing your best interests if a petition is disputed.
My child's other parent violated our visitation agreement. What should I do?
If you want your child's other parent to be held in contempt of court for violating the visitation schedule in your custody agreement, you must file a motion with the courts. The court will consider the motion based on the circumstances and the number of violations that have occurred. Your attorney can help to substantiate your claim.
How long must one spouse pay alimony to the other after a divorce?
In Florida, alimony can be either temporary or permanent. "Bridge the gap" alimony can last up to two years, and is intended to help one party transition into life without their spouse. Rehabilitative alimony is paid for the duration of a plan for an ex-spouse to gain education, skills, or credentials needed to support themselves. Durational alimony is paid for a set amount of time after the divorce, while permanent alimony is indefinite. Both durational and permanent alimony stops when either ex-spouse dies, or when the receiving ex-spouse remarries.
"Like a breath of fresh air."
Helen Calloway
Lakeland, FL
2022
When my husband and I had our first meeting with Sutton Law Firm it was like a breath of fresh air. We had been trying to get help with a judgment lawsuit we had been trying to collect on with no success, but we feel like we are on the road to getting this done. Mr. Kovschak, our Attorney, listen to information re: our case he went above and beyond to explain to us about the lawsuit. We had been getting nowhere with this as stated above, but your office gave us confidence that this could be settled. Your office made a big difference in our lives. You’re very helpful to me and Helen. Thank you and your staff for everything. God continue to bless you.
View on GoogleDavid Shippey
Bartow, FL
2022
If you are looking for quality counsel, I would highly recommend the Sutton Law Firm. I had the opportunity to work with Debra Sutton on 3 separate occasions over the last year. Each time I found her to be very thorough, planning for contingencies, recommending best practices, and always keeping her client’s needs first. If you need services, consider calling Debra first. I think you will be impressed as well.
View on Google
