Connie Brake serves as Senior Paralegal at The Virga Law Firm's Panama City Beach office, where she leads a dedicated team of paralegals and works closely with attorney Christopher Melendez, Esq. With nearly two decades of legal experience since beginning her paralegal career in 2006, Connie has worked across criminal law, real estate, and family law, though her true passion lies in helping families navigate their most challenging times.
As the incoming President of the Emerald Coast Chapter of the Paralegal Association of Florida, Connie demonstrates her commitment to advancing the paralegal profession throughout the region. Her leadership extends beyond her professional role, as she actively mentors junior team members and advocates for paralegals across the firm. This dedication to growth and excellence has made her an invaluable asset to both her colleagues and the clients she serves.
Connie's approach to family law is deeply rooted in genuine empathy and understanding. Having faced her own difficult family circumstances, she brings authentic compassion to her work with clients experiencing divorce, custody matters, and other domestic relations challenges. When she tells clients she understands what they're going through, it comes from a place of real experience and sincere care. Her ability to connect with clients during their most vulnerable moments has become one of her greatest strengths in supporting families through complex legal proceedings.
Throughout her career, Connie has handled cases involving divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, criminal defense matters, and real estate transactions. Her diverse background allows her to approach each case with a well-rounded perspective, ensuring that clients receive thorough support throughout their legal journey. Working under the supervision of licensed attorneys, she plays a crucial role in case preparation, client communication, and documentation management.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Connie is a devoted mother to three adult sons and a proud grandmother to three grandchildren. Family remains at the heart of everything she does, both personally and professionally. She enjoys spending time along Florida's Gulf Coast and is passionate about animal welfare. Connie and her husband are working toward their dream of establishing a small farm, and they currently share their home with their two beloved dogs, Samuel and Leroy. Her love for animals and gardening provides a peaceful balance to her demanding career in family law.
