Family Law Modifications Attorney in Pensacola, FL
Our Family Law Attorneys are Here to Help You
Legal agreements, such as divorce decrees, child custody orders, and child/spousal support orders, reflect the circumstances of the time at which they were made. Circumstances can and do change all the time, however, and many people find that they at some point need to request a modification of those terms. If you have found yourself in this situation, we invite you to call The Virga Law Firm, P.A. to discuss your case with a Pensacola modification attorney.
A skilled lawyer at our firm can help you determine whether you have grounds for requesting a modification, complete and submit the correct forms, and take care of all other legal details. We have decades of combined experience and a genuine passion for helping people resolve sensitive legal issues involving families.
Call us today at 800-822-5170 to schedule an affordable case review with a member of our team.
What is Modification?
In Florida family law, modifications refer to legal changes made to existing court orders or agreements, typically involving child custody, child support, alimony, or parenting plans. These modifications are requested when there has been a significant change in circumstances that justifies altering the original terms.
Common reasons for requesting a modification include:
- Change in income: If one party experiences a significant increase or decrease in income (e.g., job loss, new employment, promotion, demotion, etc.), it may warrant a modification of child support or alimony.
- Relocation: If a parent wishes to move a considerable distance, this could impact the child custody arrangement and require a modification.
- Change in child’s needs: If a child's needs change due to health, education, or other factors, the custody or support arrangement may need to be adjusted.
- Parental behavior: If one parent's behavior poses a risk to the child's well-being, a modification of custody or visitation rights may be necessary.
The Legal Process of Modifying a Court Order
The legal process for modifying a family court order in Florida involves the following steps:
- Identify a Substantial Change in Circumstances: To modify a court order, the requesting party must show a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances since the original order was issued. This could include changes like income shifts, relocation, or a child's evolving needs.
- Filing a Petition for Modification: The party seeking a modification files a Petition for Modification with the court that issued the original order. This petition outlines the changes requested and provides evidence of the significant change in circumstances.
- Serve the Petition on the Other Party: After filing, the petition must be formally served to the other party. This ensures they are properly notified and given an opportunity to respond.
- Response by the Other Party: The other party has the option to respond, either agreeing with or contesting the modification. If contested, the case may proceed to mediation or a court hearing.
- Mediation (Optional but Common): Before a hearing, the court often requires mediation, where both parties attempt to negotiate a resolution. If they reach an agreement, it can be submitted to the court for approval.
- Court Hearing: If mediation fails, a court hearing is scheduled, where both parties present evidence and arguments. The judge will evaluate whether the modification is justified based on the presented facts.
- Court Decision: The judge will issue a ruling either granting or denying the modification. If approved, a new court order will be issued reflecting the updated terms.
- Post-Modification Issues: Once modified, both parties must comply with the new order. Non-compliance can result in enforcement actions, such as contempt of court.
Contact Us Today to Discuss Your Case
The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is committed to the success of our clients and their families. If you need help with a family law modification, you can feel confident entrusting our firm with your case. We serve clients in Pensacola, Panama City, Fort Walton Beach, and the surrounding areas.
Contact us today to get started. We’re available 24/7 for your convenience.
Our Core Values
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The Client Comes First and All Else Will FollowWe 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.
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Authenticity and TransparencyWe 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.
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Relentless Pursuit of the WinWe achieve stellar results by focusing on personal and professional performance and goals. Our relentless pursuit ensures we deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.
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Growth MindsetWe 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.
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OwnershipWe 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.
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Results DrivenWe 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.
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Respect and Celebration for One AnotherWe 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.
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Unquestionable IntegrityWe 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.
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We are in it TogetherWe 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.
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ReputationReputation 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.
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Associate Attorney, In Person, Panama City Beach Office
Job Title: Family Law Associate Attorney Position
The Virga Law Firm - Panama City Beach, FL
Are You Ready for More Than Just a Career?
We're not looking for just any lawyer – we're searching for an attorney committed to compassionate and excellent representation. If you're ready to make the practice of law both meaningful and rewarding, this opportunity could be what you've been waiting for. Join a firm where you're appreciated and part of a team dedicated to excellence.
Who We Are
The Virga Law Firm is a dynamic, high-growth family law firm dedicated to providing excellent legal representation and superb client care. Founded by Gerard Virga, who brings over twenty years of legal experience to the practice, our firm has established itself as a leader in family law throughout Florida. Our attorneys hold prestigious positions on various committees for the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar, demonstrating our commitment to shaping and advancing family law practice in our state.
Our core belief is "Caring is Contagious." We understand that nothing is more important than family – it's the bedrock of our civilization and closest to people's hearts. When clients entrust us with their family law issues, we recognize it as the highest honor and responsibility.
Each family is unique and requires specialized attention during the most emotionally trying times in their lives. Our mission is to protect our clients and their families, providing them with a strong new start to their lives. We achieve this by helping one family at a time through our multiple office locations throughout Florida.
Who You Are
The ideal candidate:
- Is obsessed with achieving results for clients
- Has a passion for family law
- Excels at identifying crucial case details
- Loves litigation and is comfortable in the courtroom
- Takes pride in developing litigation strategies
- Has strong negotiation skills with a compassionate approach
- Thrives in fast-paced environments
- Is committed to helping others and leading by example
Minimum Qualifications
- An active member in good standing with the Florida Bar
- Demonstrated experience in family law
- Proven history of passionate representation and client service
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Clio knowledge is a plus)
- Advanced knowledge in litigation and client relations
- Mastery of Zoom video conferencing for court presentations
- Ability to work independently and produce superior work product
Key Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive legal advice and analysis to clients
- Manage complex high-asset divorce cases
- Handle parental responsibility and timesharing cases
- Navigate cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental health issues
- Represent clients in court proceedings and mediations
- Draft legal pleadings, motions, and orders
- Lead team members including Paralegals and professional staff
- Maintain a fast-paced workload with attention to detail
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation package based on experience
- Dental and vision insurance options with family coverage
- Progressive Paid Time Off:
- One week per six months
- Up to 80 additional hours accruing each pay period
- Paid holidays and one flex holiday
- Parental and bereavement leave
- Paid continuing legal education, bar dues, and certification dues
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive team environment
Why Choose The Virga Law Firm
- Unified company culture dedicated to success
- Highly trained support staff including Paralegals and Discovery Specialists
- Diverse caseload and full pipeline from day one
- An environment that encourages innovation and creative problem-solving
- Commitment to personal and professional growth
- No-drama, no-judgment work environment
- Strong focus on team collaboration
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:
- Current resume
- Writing sample
- Two letters of recommendation
- Cover letter
How to Apply
- Call our career hotline at 850-565-3426
- Submit required documents
Additional Information
- Website: www.thevirgalawfirm/careers
- Email: careers@thevirgalawfirm.com
- Work Location: In-person at Panama City Beach office
- Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8-hour shifts
The Virga Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace—A background check is required for final candidates.
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