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The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is a family law firm with a statewide practice focused on representing clients in family law cases. With over 100 years of combined experience, we have helped thousands of clients navigate their legal challenges.

Helping People Move Forward With Their Life

The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is a well-known divorce & family law firm in Florida focused on protecting what matters most to our clients. With over 100 years of combined experience, thousands of clients have trusted us to navigate their legal challenges.

Fort Walton Beach Family Law Attorney

Guiding Clients Through Family Law Matters in Okaloosa County

Your divorce or family law case deserves strong representation. Whether you need to move away with your child, file for divorce in Fort Walton Beach, or if you’re looking for legal counsel for stepchild adoption, our divorce attorneys near you have the knowledge to provide legal support throughout your case.

At the Virga Law Firm, P.A., our legal team has over 100 years of combined experience. Together, we have addressed hundreds of family law issues for our clients and their families. We have family law offices in Fort Walton Beach and across Florida to serve our clients with family lawyers near them.

Are you considering a divorce or have another family related matter? Call The Virga Law Firm, P.A., today at (800) 822-5170 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our family lawyer in Fort Walton Beach.

  • Who We Are
    We are a family law firm with locations across the great state of Florida focused on representing clients facing family law cases. Despite our success and growth, we remain true to our humble roots. Our attorneys and team members are grounded, compassionate, and empathetic toward our clients and communities, treating them like family. Our motto, "Helping People Move Forward with Their Life," reflects our commitment to our clients' futures and the well-being of our communities.
  • Our Culture
    At The Virga Law Firm, we foster a positive work culture that emphasizes professional growth, collaboration, and a shared passion for community service. Our attorneys are experts in their field, known for being tough in the court room but full of heart. We believe in providing a supportive environment where our team can thrive and where their dedication to clients and our community is recognized and valued.
  • Why We Do Family Law
    We are passionate about family law because we love protecting our clients and helping them move forward with their lives. Whether it's handling child custody issues, advocating for financial support, or navigating complex divorce proceedings, we are committed to our client’s well-being. Our attorneys are actively involved in committees and training focused on children’s issues and support matters, ensuring we have the latest knowledge and advocacy strategies to serve our clients effectively. Interested in joining our team?

What is Family Law?

Family law is a branch of law that deals with legal issues related to family relationships, domestic matters, and personal life events. It encompasses a wide range of legal topics that pertain to the family unit, and it is designed to address the rights, responsibilities, and disputes that can arise within these relationships. 

Common types of cases in family law include:

  • Divorce: This is perhaps one of the most common family law cases. It involves the legal dissolution of a marriage, including the division of marital property, child custody, visitation rights, and spousal support.
  • Child Custody and Visitation: These cases determine the legal and physical custody of children when parents separate or divorce. They also address visitation schedules and parental rights and responsibilities.
  • Child Support: Child support cases establish the financial support obligations of non-custodial parents to ensure that children's needs are met.
  • Spousal Support (Alimony): These cases involve determining whether one spouse should provide financial support to the other spouse after a divorce or separation.
  • Paternity: Paternity cases are filed to establish the legal father of a child, which can impact child support, custody, and visitation rights.
  • Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders: Cases involving allegations of domestic violence may lead to the issuance of restraining orders to protect victims from their abusers.
  • Guardianship: Guardianship cases address the appointment of a guardian to take care of and make decisions for a minor or an incapacitated adult.
  • Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: These legal agreements outline the division of assets and liabilities in the event of divorce or death. Prenuptial agreements are made before marriage, while postnuptial agreements are made after marriage.
  • Estate Planning: This area of family law involves creating wills, trusts, and other documents to ensure the orderly distribution of assets and the care of dependents after an individual's death.
  • Termination of Parental Rights: In cases of neglect, abuse, or other extreme circumstances, parental rights can be terminated through legal proceedings.
  • Grandparent Rights: In some cases, grandparents seek visitation or custody rights concerning their grandchildren.

At Virga Law Firm, P.A., our experienced Fort Walton family law attorneys are here to guide and support you through the complexities of family law matters. We understand the emotional and legal challenges you may be facing, and we are dedicated to providing you with the expertise and compassionate representation you deserve. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking child custody or support, or dealing with any other family law issue, we are committed to advocating for your rights and helping you navigate the legal process with confidence. Let us be your trusted legal partners, striving for the best possible outcomes in your family law case.

Why Should I Hire a Family Law Attorney?

Hiring a family lawyer can offer several benefits in various legal matters concerning family and domestic relationships. Some key advantages of having a family law attorney on your side include the following:

  • Legal Expertise: They specialize in the complexities of family-related legal matters. They have in-depth knowledge of the applicable laws, regulations, and court procedures, which can be challenging for people to navigate on their own.
  • Personalized Advice: They can provide personalized legal advice that is tailored to your specific circumstances. They can assess the details of your case, help you understand your goals, and develop a strategy that aligns with you and your family's best interests.
  • Objective Guidance: Emotions can often run high in family law cases, for example, divorces or child custody battles. They can provide objective guidance, helping you make sound decisions that consider both short-term and long-term consequences.
  • Paperwork and Documentation: Family law cases often involve comprehensive paperwork and documentation. They can handle all the paperwork, ensuring it is completed accurately and submitted on time, which can help prevent unnecessary delays and mistakes.
  • Negotiation Skills: They can advocate for your interests during negotiations while aiming to acquire favorable outcomes and settlements.
  • Court Representation: If your case ends up in court, they will present your case persuasively, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf, improving your chances of a favorable judgment.
  • Child Custody and Support Advocacy: When dealing with child custody or support matters, they can ensure that the best interests of the child are assessed and that you obtain a fair arrangement.
  • Faster Resolution: Having an attorney who knows the legal process and requirements can help expedite the resolution of your case, therefore saving you time, stress, and unnecessary court appearances.
  • Future Protection: They can help you craft legally binding agreements, such as prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, to protect your assets and interests in the occasion of a divorce or separation.
  • Reduce Stress: Dealing with family legal matters can be emotionally taxing. They can alleviate some stress by taking the legal burden off your plate and allowing you to focus on other parts of your life.

Divorce and family law issues in Okaloosa County should not be handled on your own. Let our Fort Walton Beach divorce attorneys help – contact our family law office near you!

  • Top 10 Family Law Award by Attorney and Practice Magazine
  • 10 Best by American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
  • The National Trial Lawyers | Top 100 Lawyers
  • Avvo Rating 10.0 Superb
  • The National Trial Lawyers | Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • Super Lawyers Rising Star
  • The National Advocates
  • Best of Florida 2024
  • Best of Bay
  • Attorney Top 40 Under 40
  • Top 10 Family Law Law Firm
  • Best of the Best Attorneys - Family Law 2022
  • American Association of Attorney Advocates | Family Law
  • Super Lawyers Rising Stars

Our Core Values

Your Future, Our Commitment
  • The Client Comes First and All Else Will Follow

    We take pride in delivering best-in-class client service and experience, understanding the privilege and responsibility we have when assisting clients and their families through legal matters. It is our highest obligation.

  • Authenticity and Transparency

    We believe in being transparent about who we are, with ourselves, each other, and our clients and partners. This authenticity builds trust and fosters strong relationships.

  • Relentless Pursuit of the Win

    We achieve stellar results by focusing on personal and professional performance and goals. Our relentless pursuit ensures we deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.

  • Growth Mindset

    We continuously learn, grow, and improve as individuals, as a law firm, and as advocates for our clients. We set and exceed both personal and professional goals to ensure ongoing development.

  • Ownership

    We take responsibility for our work and actions, ensuring accountability in all that we do. Our commitment to ownership drives excellence and fosters a culture of trust and reliability.

  • Results Driven

    We focus on outcomes and disregard the level of effort required. We have the vision and the discipline to do the work and face challenges to make our vision a reality for our clients.

  • Respect and Celebration for One Another

    We support each other with kindness and respect, emphasizing a positive work culture and celebrating along the way. We respect our clients and support them through their challenges.

  • Unquestionable Integrity

    We stand up for what’s right with consistently sound ethics and courageous honesty. Our integrity is the foundation of our practice and guides our actions and decisions.

  • We are in it Together

    We are client and team-focused, committed to the firm’s vision, and act for the greater good. We carry our weight, bring others along, and act with civility, candor, and respect in all interactions.

  • Reputation

    Reputation is everything. We strive to have the best personal and professional reputations. We want our reputation to precede us and for opposing counsel to know we are committed to fighting for our clients.

  • Community Stewardship

    We embody the concept of giving back to the community. The Virga Law Firm is committed to supporting and improving the community through responsible and caring actions, setting an example of character.

    Trusted Testimonials

    Hear It straight From Our Clients
      "Gerard has been monumental to my case."
      Gerard has been monumental to my case. I recognized I needed an attorney who was committed to a positive outcome for my children and I. Gerard made himself available to answer all of my questions and concerns. I felt very comfortable working with the Virga Law Firm.
      - A Divorce Client
      "Eager to help and fight for clients."
      I will definitely be recommending to anyone I know that needs a child custody or divorce attorney!
      - A Divorce Client
      "He's a man of integrity and is willing to go above and beyond to get the results needed."
      If you are looking for an attorney who is professional, honest, knowledgeable and responsive to your needs, Gerard Virga meets such requirements.
      - A Divorce Client
      "He was a straight shooter and listened to my wants."
      He responded to my messages promptly and I never felt rushed when speaking with him in meetings and phone conversations.
      - A Divorce Client
      "He listened carefully."
      He answered in a way that helped me understand the law better.
      - A Divorce Client
      "Gerard is smarter than 95% of people I know, including lawyers."
      Gerard is smarter than 95% of people I know, including lawyers. His intelligence combined with his work ethic make him an extremely effective advocate. Gerard is the kind of evil genius I'd want on my side heading into a courtroom battle.
      - Adam Ellis, Litigation Lawyer
      "Gerard is a brilliant attorney and he's the one you want on your side!"
      Truly he is one of the smartest people I have met. I have found Gerard very knowledgeable on law and legal procedure, and am extremely impressed by his ability to devise and execute an aggressive legal strategy. I think it is fair to say that if you get caught in a foxhole, Gerard Virga is the guy you want to have with you!
      - Rusty Shepard, Criminal Defense Attorney
      "Mr. Virga treated me with professionalism and fought my case well!"
      This lawyer treated me with professionalism, and fought for my case. His staff was excellent and Mr. Virga had an excellent understanding of the law. Mr. Virga also was a very real person, and not just another stuffy lawyer.
      - A Divorce Client

    Why Choose The Virga Law Firm, P.A.?

    • Results-Driven Representation, Client-Centered Care
    • Same-Day Scheduling via Phone, Zoom, or in-person
    • 7 Locations Throughout the great state of Florida
    • Over 100 Years of Collective legal Experience working for you

    Providing Sound Legal Counsel For Family Law Matters

    Are you dealing with a family law matter like divorce or child custody? If so, then you are likely facing one of the most challenging and stressful times in your life and need the support of a compassionate and experienced divorce lawyer in your area.

    Our Fort Walton Beach divorce lawyers are here to guide you toward resolutions that are in your best interests and the best interests of your children. When you work with our firm, we will ensure that you remain well-informed about your rights and legal options so that you can move forward with peace and confidence.

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