Caring for a child is undeniably fulfilling, but when that child isn't legally your own, it can pose certain challenges for your family. Whether you are in the process of adopting a child from non-biological parents, adopting a relative, or your spouse's child, the journey should ideally be marked by kindness and joy, culminating in the child finding permanent parents—something every child requires for their optimal development and future success as an adult.
At The Thomas Law Firm, we are dedicated to ensuring that the adoption process is as stress-free as possible, that all needs are met, and, most importantly, we passionately strive to unite families with the child they are embracing as their own.
Providing for a child's needs is an exceedingly costly endeavor. Ensuring that the child has a secure and comfortable home, access to nutritious food, adequate clothing and footwear, covering medical expenses, funding education or childcare, and addressing various other necessities can often leave a parent feeling overwhelmed and financially strained.
At Thomas Law Firm, we are dedicated to advocating for your rights and working tirelessly to secure a just and equitable amount of child support on your behalf. Our commitment extends beyond the present, as we can also explore avenues for retroactive support to help alleviate past financial burdens. Count on us to provide comprehensive assistance and support throughout the process.
Occasionally, a parent or spouse may veer off the path of legal compliance, disregarding both the law and court-issued orders. In such challenging circumstances where enforcement becomes imperative, The Thomas Law Firm steps in with unwavering determination to ensure that these orders are not merely words on paper, but enforceable directives.
Contempt of court, as a legal recourse, demands meticulous attention to specific and detailed prerequisites in order to attain the sought-after relief or sanctions. Jessica Thomas, drawing upon her extensive experience, has not only sought contempt actions to uphold the integrity of court orders but has also adeptly defended against unwarranted contempt claims on numerous occasions. Her track record underscores her proficiency in navigating the nuances of contempt proceedings to protect your rights and uphold the law.
When navigating matters involving the IRS, it is absolutely crucial to leave no legal stone unturned. Any complications or disagreements with the U.S. Government can have serious consequences, and it's imperative that you take every necessary step to protect your rights and interests.
At the Thomas Law Firm, we are dedicated to ensuring that you are fully informed about your rights and that we vigorously advocate on your behalf. In the state of Florida, the Department of Revenue often plays a significant role in facilitating child support matters, given that many of these cases fall under Title IV administrative proceedings. It is of the utmost importance to seek legal counsel in order to navigate deadlines for responses and to assert all available rights effectively.
In cases where you already have an existing final support order and require guidance on how to modify the amount, Attorney Thomas is at your service, well-versed in the intricacies of these procedures. Count on us to provide expert legal counsel and representation to safeguard your interests when dealing with these complex matters involving the IRS and child support issues in Florida.
Dependency law cases present unique and multifaceted challenges, encompassing situations that involve or should involve the Department of Children and Families (DCF). Jessica Thomas brings unwavering commitment to her clients and the community, enabling her to serve as a zealous advocate, simultaneously championing her clients' rights and the best interests of the child involved.
These complex dependency cases typically arise when a child is forcibly removed from their home by the Department of Children and Families due to concerns about their safety and well-being. If you find yourself in the position of caring for a child who has been taken from your home by DCF, it is advisable to explore the option of securing private legal representation. This choice is especially relevant if you do not meet the criteria for or prefer not to have court-appointed legal counsel.
In certain scenarios, dependency cases may also come into play when DCF refrains from removing a child from a home that is allegedly abusive or neglectful. In such cases, there may be a viable avenue for filing a private petition to address these concerns.
If you are contemplating taking action in a situation like this, we encourage you to reach out to us to schedule a consultation. Your decision to pursue such a case is significant, and we are here to provide you with the legal guidance and support you need to navigate these intricate and sensitive matters.
Few couples enter matrimony with a plan for its end, and the lack of preparedness, coupled with the emotional upheaval, can leave individuals in a difficult and uncertain place.
At the Thomas Law Firm, we are steadfast in our commitment to protecting your rights and ensuring that you can move forward with your life following the dissolution of your marriage. Whether you had a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement in place, the Thomas Law Firm possesses the expertise to assist you in upholding its provisions or establishing a legal foundation to set it aside if necessary.
We aim to provide you with the legal support and guidance required to navigate the complexities of divorce, safeguard your interests, and pave the way for a more stable future. When the unexpected happens, we're here to help you chart a path forward.
The Thomas Law Firm is a staunch advocate for individuals seeking protection from the harrowing realms of cyberbullying, relentless stalking, and the traumatic grip of domestic violence. Our unwavering commitment extends not only to petitioners striving to secure injunctions but also to respondents seeking to defend themselves when unjustly accused, ensuring that justice is served without compromise.
The Thomas Law Firm is dedicated to forging a path towards safety and security for its clients and their families. With meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding these sensitive matters, we work diligently to identify the most appropriate course of action. Our foremost objective is to create a safer environment, free from the perils of harassment, intimidation, and violence, so that our clients can rebuild their lives with confidence and peace of mind.
The dissolution of a marriage is undeniably a stressful ordeal for all parties involved. The Thomas Law Firm is dedicated to achieving the optimal resolution for our clients while staying firmly within the bounds of the law. With her unwavering determination in the courtroom and a strong emphasis on nurturing client relationships, Jessica Thomas is steadfast in her commitment to mitigating the inherent challenges of this already taxing situation.
Dissolution often entails more than just the legal termination of a marriage; it frequently involves intricate matters such as establishing timesharing arrangements for children and allocating financial interests. Attorney Thomas, with her deliberate focus on her clients, offers informed guidance based on her extensive experience and ongoing legal education.
Family law encompasses a range of legal issues, including the modification of timesharing agreements, alimony considerations, and determining child support, among others. If you find yourself entangled in a family law matter or are contemplating pursuing one, and you have unanswered questions, the Thomas Law Firm, PLLC is here to provide assistance and guidance.
At Thomas Law Firm, PLLC, we are dedicated to championing the rights of fathers in Orlando, Florida. Led by experienced family law attorney Jessica D. Thomas, our firm understands the unique challenges fathers face in custody, visitation, child support, and paternity cases. We are committed to ensuring that fathers receive fair treatment and their voices are heard in family law proceedings. Whether you are seeking to establish paternity, modify custody arrangements, or enforce your parental rights, our compassionate and knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way. Trust Thomas Law Firm to advocate for your rights and help you navigate the complexities of family law with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you with your father's rights case.
As guardian ad litem (GAL), Jessica Thomas plays a unique and vital role within the legal system, particularly in cases involving children or vulnerable individuals. The term "guardian ad litem" is a Latin phrase that translates to "guardian for the lawsuit" in English. Essentially, a GAL is appointed by the court to act as an advocate and representative for a person who is
The court appoints a GAL when it determines that there is a need for someone to independently represent the best interests of a child or another party who may be incapacitated or unable to advocate for themselves. This can occur in various legal proceedings, including divorce and custody disputes, child abuse or neglect cases, and cases involving adults with cognitive impairments or disabilities.
Once appointed, the GAL's primary responsibility is to thoroughly investigate the case. This typically involves interviewing all relevant parties, such as the child, parents, caregivers, teachers, therapists, and other individuals involved in the child's life. The GAL gathers information about the child's living situation, well-being, and any other pertinent factors.
While the GAL's main focus is on the best interests of the child or the represented party, they also ensure that the person's legal rights are protected and upheld during legal proceedings. This may include participating in court hearings, presenting evidence, and making recommendations to the court based on their investigation.
One of the key aspects of a GAL's role is to maintain objectivity and impartiality. They do not advocate for the child's or party's wishes but rather for what they believe to be in that person's best interests. This can sometimes mean making difficult recommendations or decisions that may not align with the desires of the child or party involved.
After conducting a thorough investigation, the GAL prepares a report for the court. This report includes their findings, assessments, and recommendations regarding issues such as custody arrangements, visitation rights, or the need for protective measures. The court heavily considers these recommendations when making its final decisions. In some cases, the GAL's role may extend beyond a single court proceeding. They may continue to monitor the situation to ensure that court orders are being followed and that the best interests of the child or party remain protected.
In essence, as a guardian ad litem, Jessica Thomas is a voice for those who cannot advocate for themselves effectively within the legal system. They work diligently to ensure that the person's well-being and rights are safeguarded, all while maintaining a strong commitment to the impartial pursuit of what is best for that individual.
At Thomas Law Firm, PLLC, we understand that divorce is a challenging process, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. As an experienced family law attorney in Orlando, Florida, Jessica D. Thomas is dedicated to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Our firm offers comprehensive support for all aspects of LGBTQIA+ divorce, including division of assets, child custody, spousal support, and more. We are committed to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment throughout the divorce process. Trust us to guide you through this difficult time with empathy, respect, and unwavering advocacy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you with your LGBTQIA+ divorce needs.
The Thomas Law Firm plays a pivotal role during hearings and mediation sessions. At hearings, Jessica Thomas zealously represents her clients by skillfully presenting their case before a judge, offering persuasive arguments, and marshaling pertinent evidence and legal precedents. This includes advocating for various family law matters, such as child custody, support, alimony, and equitable property division, among others.
In mediation, Jessica assumes the role of a skilled mediator and legal counsel. She acts as a bridge between disputing parties, facilitating constructive negotiations and fostering an environment conducive to amicable resolutions. With her expert guidance, she helps clarify complex issues and guides clients toward mutually acceptable agreements. Whether in the courtroom or during mediation, Attorney Thomas is dedicated to safeguarding her clients' rights and interests, utilizing her legal expertise to secure favorable outcomes for them.
The Thomas Law Firm is instrumental in assisting clients with paternity matters. In cases where there is a dispute or uncertainty regarding a child's biological parentage, Jessica Thomas employs her expertise to help clients establish or challenge paternity through legal means. She guides clients through the process of seeking paternity testing, filing paternity petitions, or contesting paternity claims, ensuring that their rights and obligations are clearly defined. Jessica meticulously navigates the legal complexities of paternity cases, whether it involves establishing parental rights, seeking child support, or addressing custody and visitation arrangements, always prioritizing her clients' best interests and the well-being of the child involved.
A family law attorney plays a crucial role in assisting clients with modifications in family law cases. When circumstances change after a court order has been issued, such as alterations in income, child custody needs, or spousal support requirements, an attorney can help clients petition the court for modifications to reflect these changes.
Attorney Thomas, with her deep understanding of family law and experience in handling modification cases, works diligently to ensure that her clients' interests are protected. She navigates the legal process, gathers necessary evidence, and presents compelling arguments to demonstrate the substantial changes warranting modifications. Whether it involves child support adjustments, custody arrangements, or other family law matters, Attorney Thomas is dedicated to helping her clients achieve fair and equitable modifications that align with their evolving circumstances.
The Thomas Law Firm is instrumental in assisting clients with paternity matters. In cases where there is a dispute or uncertainty regarding a child's biological parentage, Jessica Thomas employs her expertise to help clients establish or challenge paternity through legal means. She guides clients through the process of seeking paternity testing, filing paternity petitions, or contesting paternity claims, ensuring that their rights and obligations are clearly defined. Jessica meticulously navigates the legal complexities of paternity cases, whether it involves establishing parental rights, seeking child support, or addressing custody and visitation arrangements, always prioritizing her clients' best interests and the well-being of the child involved.
Our Practice Areas
At our statewide and collaboratively trained family law firm, we specialize in a range of practice areas to meet the unique needs of our clients. From divorce and child custody to adoption and domestic violence cases, we have the expertise and experience to handle all aspects of family law. We work closely with our clients to achieve the best possible outcomes and provide compassionate support throughout the legal process.