Family Law
A Personal St. Petersburg Family Law Practice
I provide a full range of family law services. For more information, click on a heading.
Florida Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage)
All divorces are difficult, whether they are contested or uncontested. It helps to have the counsel of a female lawyer who can help you decide your best and worst day in court while listening to all of your issues.
Child Custody, Visitation and Support
Florida law has made significant changes since October 1, 2008. Florida has taken the term "custody" and is using a parenting plan to resolve issues regarding what was previously termed custody.
Alimony
Florida courts will look at several factors and case law in determining whether to award alimony as part of a divorce order.
Marital Property Division
All marital assets and liabilities or debts will be divided, including houses, cars, furniture, retirement plans and savings accounts. If you and your spouse can decide on how to divide marital property, that may be better than letting the judge decide how to divide your property.
Paternity and Unmarried Parents' Issues
If you are listed on your child's birth certificate as the father, it doesn't mean you have visitation rights or legal custody. Only a court can confer custody and visitation rights to an unmarried father once an order has been entered. It is imperative, as an unwed father, to follow certain procedures to protect your rights.
Domestic Violence Injunctions
I represent victims of domestic violence, as well as people who are accused of domestic violence.
DCF Actions and Termination of Parental Rights Defense
As a former child welfare investigator and state prosecutor, I know how DCF investigators think, how the state prosecutes these cases and what case law is used by judges to make decisions.
Adoption
Protecting children and serving their best interests has been one of the constants in my legal career. One of the best ways I can do that is by helping to bring children into a loving forever home.
Wills and Estate Planning
Many people who have been divorced for a number of years are shocked to find out that their ex-spouse is still named as a beneficiary under their will and as their agent under a medical power of attorney and living will. It is imperative that persons review their estate planning after events such as divorce. In the event of your death, your relatives will need a caring attorney who can help them through difficult times surrounding the death of a loved one.
Attorney Consultation
To discuss your case with me, attorney Christina Sandvoss, call 727-498-4418, 813-699-5442 or fill out my simple contact form.
