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“We rise by lifting others.” - Robert G. Ingersoll
It is truly an honor and privilege for me to serve as Chair of The Family Law Section of The Florida Bar. I am both humbled and excited by this opportunity to lead a Section that for the past 52 years has steadfastly remained committed to service, excellence, helping Florida’s families, and empowering others.
The theme for the year is Supporting Today, Reshaping Tomorrow. As the Section has grown over the years, we have been able to expand our charitable giving, sponsor many great educational programs, extend our reach to those in need, assist more young lawyers grow in the profession, continue to improve the lives of Florida’s families, and increase accessibility and inclusion to all those who wish to participate. We will continue to build upon those ideals, hoping to reshape tomorrow for the better. Each of us has so much to offer and we are fortunate to be able to give back in many ways – whether it’s a small gesture, a thank you, giving someone a shoulder to cry on, opening our door to someone in need, mentoring, or simply being available.
My first act as Chair this year was to create an Ad Hoc Emerging Lawyers Committee, comprised of attorneys with less than 5 years of family law experience or who are 36 years of age and under, and those more experienced who will be mentoring them. I am excited to start building a foundation to help emerging lawyers in their practices and provide guidance within the Section.
Throughout my legal career (that started many years ago), there have been so many amazing people that have helped me grow as an attorney, and as an individual. I give many thanks to those who gave me opportunities, taught me the ropes and trusted me to lead - they helped to reshape my tomorrow. Now, I have the opportunity to help others, open doors, support young lawyers and law students in their endeavors in family law, and, as always, help Florida’s families.
I want to thank Immediate past chair Christopher Rumbold, for his leadership, tenacity, and tireless efforts in leading the Section, while working to improve our mental health and well-being. Also, a heartfelt thanks to the Executive Committee of Sarah Kay, Tenesia Hall, and Andrea Reid, for their tremendous hard work and support. And, our incomparable Section Administrator, Willie Mae Shepherd, who makes this Section run so smoothly.
Congratulations to all award winners at our annual luncheon, for your contributions to the Section and to Florida’s families. I know you will continue to inspire us all.
Our first big event is the 2025 Trial Advocacy Workshop, July 23-27, at the JW Marriott Marquis in Miami. I want to thank co-chairs Michelle Klinger Smith, Anya Cintron Stern and Magistrate Barbara Goiran for their hard work in putting together an incredible program featuring Board-Certified attorneys, General Magistrates, and Judges. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Miami.
Our fall meetings will be at the Hyatt Regency in Clearwater Beach, September 18 & 20. I encourage you to take advantage of our special group rate, and make plans to join us for this annual event. Our committee meeting schedule will be available in a few weeks. Reservations and info can be found HERE.
Fall also means the return of football, Halloween, and our In-State Retreat, this year taking place at the Omni Resort in Amelia Island, October 29 – November 2.. The resort is on the tip of a barrier island in northeastern Florida and is essentially a little city in a resort. We’ll have great Halloween (and other) activities for kids, and lots of fun (and football) for adults, Registration is now open, just click HERE.
The annual Marital and Family Law Review Course will be at Disney’s Swan & Dolphin Hotel (on Disney property) in January 2026, and you won’t want to miss it. Registration will open in early September and as always, space is limited so be on the look-out for further details. Our Out of State Retreat will be March 4-8, 2026, at The Landing in Lake Tahoe, California. Get ready for a winter wonderland - details will be posted soon.
Lastly, I would like to personally thank our annual sponsors for their ongoing support of Section programs and events. I encourage you all to consider becoming a Section sponsor, a wonderful way to support the work that we do while highlighting your business to our 4,000+ members and affiliates. We offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities at all price points. More information can be found HERE.
Looking forward to an amazing year!
Aimee Gross, B.C.S.
Section Chair, 2025-2026
| | Congratulations to our 2025-2026 Family Law Section Executive Committee Members, L-R: Chris Rumbold, Immediate Past Chair; Aimee Gross, Chair; Tenesia Hall, Chair-Elect; Andrea Reid, Treasurer; and Michelle Klinger Smith, Secretary. We are so excited about everything in store for the Section this year! Click below for the Photo Galleries from the Membership Installation & Awards Luncheon and our Annual Meetings! | | | | |
Trial Advocacy Workshop
JW Marriott Marquis Miami
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Fall Meetings
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach. Reserve your room now!
| | | | | In-State Retreat Omni Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach. Registration and hotel now open! | | | | | Mid-Year Meetings and Marital and Family Law Review Course. Save the dates now, more info coming soon! | | | | | Out of State Retreat. The Landing Tahoe Resort & Spa, Lake Tahoe. Save the dates now, more info coming soon! | | | |
We’re proud to shine a spotlight on Dean Dorton, a valued sponsor whose support helps make our programming possible. With a reputation for excellence in accounting, advisory, and business consulting services, Dean Dorton has long been a trusted resource for professionals in the legal community and beyond. Thank you, Dean Dorton, for your continued commitment and partnership!
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Interested in Becoming a Sponsor?
Now’s the perfect time to get involved. Explore sponsorship opportunities and learn how your organization can gain visibility while supporting our mission.
Download the PDF here!
| New Emerging Lawyers Committee Formed | |
The Family Law Section’s newest Ad Hoc Committee, the Emerging Family Lawyers Committee, is the first committee spotlight for this Bar cycle year.
The Ad Hoc Emerging Family Lawyers Committee was created to assist and empower family lawyers newer to the practice through mentorship, leadership, and personal engagement in the Family Law Section.
The Committee’s goals are to help members connect with other family law attorneys in the Family Law Section, foster member participation in other Family Law Section committees, encourage members to participate in unique social events, and even collaborate with law students and help them become involved in the Family Law Section. The voices, interests, and involvement of newer family law practitioners, legal interns, and law students are integral to the Committee.
The Committee looks forward to a successful first year and to empowering the next generation of family lawyers and leaders. Please reach out to the Ad Hoc Emerging Family Lawyers Committee leadership if you would like to get involved in shaping the future of the Family Law Section!
| | Introducing Our New Series: '12 Habits of Highly Successful Family Law Attorneys' | | |
To Our Readers,
In the dynamic and often sensitive realm of family law, success is not just defined by winning cases but by cultivating habits that ensure professional excellence and client satisfaction. Our publications team is pleased to announce our new FAMSEG series, “12 Habits of Highly Successful Family Law Attorneys,” which will explore these core practices, from mastering communication and building trust to staying ahead of legal trends and fostering work-life balance. Over the course of this series, readers can expect insightful discussions, actionable advice, and real-world examples that illuminate the habits distinguishing top practitioners in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned attorney or just embarking on your journey in family law, this series promises to inspire growth, refine strategies, and elevate your practice.
In our inaugural article, AAML Fellow and Trustee and former Chair of the Family Law Section, Laura Davis Smith, B.C.S., of Coral Gables, discusses the habit of not taking things personally.
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It Is NOT Personal
By Laura Davis Smith, Esq.
In our role as Marital and Family Lawyers, though we deal with the most personal details of our client’s lives, it is important that we do not take things personally and that we do not make things personal.
We are all multi-faceted, imperfect human beings. Parties to litigation are understandably emotional and may react to circumstances out of sadness, frustration, or anger. The attorneys involved in a matter have other cases to deal with and lives separate from the work they do. None of us knows with any certainty why a person responds to us in any particular way. It is imperative that we communicate clearly, keeping emotion out of the dialogue, strive to listen attentively, hear what is said, and react professionally. Yes, feelings will get hurt. Yes, miscommunication will happen. We must rise above, apologize, and forgive.
We are required to advocate zealously for our clients, and we – unique to family law – must strive to balance that zealous advocacy against the best interests of the children present in our cases. To do that, we will necessarily make arguments and take positions that differ from our opponents’.
When disagreements arise, maintain your composure. Remember the civility requirement incorporated into the Oath of Attorney we all took and promised to uphold but also remind yourself that your clients’ difficulties are not YOUR difficulties. Your role is to advance your clients’ position within the parameters the law provides, not to take on their anger or frustration.
Keeping a clear head is key to providing the best representation for your clients; letting yourself become embroiled in your client’s emotional fight is counter to professional advocacy on their behalf. As your client’s counselor, you are obligated to provide advice, representation, and a logical sounding board for your client during the difficult time of their legal proceeding.
As Don Miguel Ruiz said in his book The Four Agreements, “Don’t take anything personally. Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.” Not only should you live by this directive, but you should also encourage your clients to do so, too.
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Tech Tip: Virtual Hearings - Best Practices Reminders
By Jennifer Darley, Esq.
Since 2020 virtual hearings have become commonplace for our cases. While the courts have begun returning to in-person appearances more often, it is fair to say that virtual hearings will continue to be used. Recently, I attended several virtual hearings that have been problematic, to the point that one judge has asked that I communicate with clients and the other parties in advance of virtual hearings to remind them of proper protocol. Based on what I have seen, it has become apparent that we could all use reminders of these simple best practices to ensure successful proceedings.
Pre-Hearing Connectivity Checks are essential for avoiding courtroom disruptions. Practitioners and non-represented parties should test their internet connection, audio, and video quality at least 30 minutes before the scheduled hearing. Backup internet options, such as mobile hotspots, should be readily available. Camera positioning should be tested to ensure proper framing and lighting. In addition to the checks, if not remaining logged in, practitioners and parties should log in at a minimum five (5) minutes prior to the start of the hearing.
Professional Appearance Standards remain strictly enforced in virtual settings. Attorneys, clients, and non-represented parties must dress as they would for in-person court appearances. Business attire is mandatory, and casual clothing can result in sanctions or hearing delays. Proper grooming and professional presentation demonstrate respect for the court process. No one should be wearing hats or sunglasses, there should be no drinking, eating, or smoking, and if you must be in a vehicle, it should be stopped and parked in a safe location during the proceeding. A virtual appearance is the same as an in-court appearance, it is simply being done virtually for convenience.
Background and Environment Control requires careful attention to detail. Participants should use neutral, professional backgrounds or approved virtual backgrounds. The hearing space must be private and free from interruptions. Family members, pets, and other distractions should be removed from the area. You should ensure that there is nothing in the background which moves to cause distraction, such as a television.
Audio Management is critical for clear communication. Background noise, including air conditioning, traffic, other people, children, or household sounds, can disrupt proceedings. Participants should use headphones when possible and mute themselves when not speaking. Testing audio levels beforehand prevents technical difficulties during testimony. Whenever possible, especially for first time appearances, you should practice and test your electronic systems by conducting a practice run with another person or member of your staff on the platform that the hearing is being conducted.
Joint Appearance with Your Client and/or Witnesses is advised whenever possible. While many practitioners don’t care if their clients and/or witnesses appear with them, I have found that it is best to have them present in my office for electronic appearances. By having the clients/witnesses present in my office, I am able to address technical issues immediately and do not run the risk of them being unable to be present or unable to testify. I am also able to communicate with the client during the hearing, much like we do during in person hearings, to ask questions. If the client is not present with me, I do not have the ability to address those issues that tend to present themselves in the moment.
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Case Law Update
Saladino v. Saladino, No. 6D2024-2107, (Fla. 6th DCA June 20, 2025)
By Ronald Kaufman, Esq.
The Former Husband appealed a post-judgment order finding him in contempt of its final judgment and a prejudgment standing order. In 2022, After filing for divorce, the trial court entered a standing order requiring them to maintain their insurance without change, and by its own terms, expired after entry of final judgment. The parties agreed to shared parental responsibility and timesharing, and went to trial on all other issues.
Before trial, Former Wife moved for contempt for failure to maintain car insurance but the matter was never heard. After the trial, the court entered final judgment, but did not address contempt or violation of the prejudgment standing order. Former Wife then amended her contempt motion, additionally claiming that Former Husband had taken the minor child and refused to return him. Former Husband failed to appear at the contempt hearing. The trial court awarded Former Wife sole parental responsibility and time sharing, and directed him to undergo a psychological evaluation.
The appellate court reversed. The contempt order violated due process by eliminating timesharing, awarding sole parental responsibility, and ordering the psychological evaluation because the Former Wife did not seek this relief in her motion. Importantly, granting relief under the prejudgment standing order for failure to maintain insurance was also reversed. The Sixth Circuit found that the prejudgment standing order has expired. The Former Wife did not obtain a ruling from the trial court before it entered final judgment, and the trial court did not reserve jurisdiction to address the standing order violations after the final judgment's entry. Accordingly, the trial court could not award relief for this temporary order's violation after it expired.
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