(FORT MYERS, Fla.) – Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS), in collaboration with Lee County Legal Aid Society, the Lee County Bar Association, and the 20th Judicial Circuit Court, hosted a well-attended family law seminar, on Friday, April 4, as part of the 20th Judicial Pro Bono Subcommittee’s ongoing efforts to promote professional development and expand pro bono involvement.
The event brought together legal professionals from across the region for a day of education, collaboration and reflection on the role of pro bono service in improving access to justice for Florida families.
A highlight of the seminar was a judicial panel featuring 11 judges and magistrates from Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties. Moderated by Judge Designate Amanda Levy-Reis, the panel offered practical insights and guidance to pro bono attorneys working in or exploring family law. The discussion emphasized the importance of collaboration between the bench and bar in streamlining legal processes and better serving families in need.
Event Highlights:
Christy O’Brien, Esq., and Kayla Richmond, Esq., led a session focused on family law evidence. Their presentation addressed the admissibility and weight of children’s statements, common objections, and best practices for preparing supporting documentation for trial.
Another breakout session, led by Blair DeMinico, Esq., Judge Designate Levy-Reis, and Magistrate Christopher Whitney, walked attendees through Florida Supreme Court–approved family law forms. Presenters offered practical tips on tailoring forms to fit the unique facts of each case.
Stacy Haverfield, Esq., provided a comprehensive overview of appellate issues in family law, including recent jurisprudence from the Sixth District Court of Appeal. The session covered trends in affirmance and reversal rates, as well as average decision timelines—key data for attorneys navigating post-trial strategy.
Participants were eligible to earn Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits, reinforcing the event’s dual focus on professional growth and public service. Throughout the day, speakers shared compelling stories of the life-changing impact of pro bono representation, including firsthand accounts from Karla Campos-Andersen, Esq., and Kati Calvo, Esq.
“The consistent theme throughout the seminar was clear—pro bono work remains critical in ensuring access to justice,” stated FRLS's Pro Bono team. “We are proud to work alongside judges, attorneys, and legal professionals who dedicate their time and expertise to those who need it most.”
About Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS):
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to qualified individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties and to farmworkers statewide. Since 1966, FRLS has pursued justice by providing legal services in
housing law, family law, consumer protection, public benefits, elder law, disaster relief, education law, tax advocacy, and more, all at no cost to our clients. FRLS collaborates with community organizations and pro bono attorneys to deliver quality advocacy, outreach, and education designed to protect the rights of those in need. For over 50 years, FRLS has been a steadfast advocate for justice.