Shawn DeVries 
The holidays are meant to be joyful and filled with family traditions — but for separated or divorced parents, they can also bring tension, uncertainty, and conflict over parenting time. Questions like “Who gets the kids for Christmas?” or “How do we handle Thanksgiving this year?” can quickly turn emotional. In Florida, parents are encouraged … Read more
Inheriting property or money from a loved one can provide financial relief and security, but it also raises questions about taxes. Many people ask: How much can you inherit in Florida without paying taxes? Understanding Florida inheritance and estate tax rules can help you plan effectively and protect your financial legacy. This article explains Florida … Read more
Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. While real estate transactions are typically straightforward with a licensed realtor, issues can arise. If a realtor acts negligently, engages in fraud, or misrepresents property details, you may wonder: Can I sue a realtor in Florida? This article explains your … Read more
Divorce can be complicated, and Florida law includes rules and guidelines that influence the division of assets, child custody, and alimony. One question that often arises is whether there is a “7-year divorce rule” in Florida, particularly regarding alimony and long-term marriages. Understanding how the length of a marriage affects divorce outcomes can help you … Read more
If you’ve been involved in an accident in Florida, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury settlement. While recovering damages can provide much-needed financial relief, many people wonder: Are personal injury settlements taxable in Florida? Understanding the tax implications of your settlement is an essential part of financial planning after an accident. … Read more
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be one of the most stressful and expensive decisions of your life if you are not careful. For first-time homebuyers in Florida, the process can feel overwhelming with all the legal, financial, and practical details that come with it. As a Florida attorney, … Read more
Discovering that your vehicle has been towed can be stressful, especially when it happens unexpectedly or under questionable circumstances. In Florida, vehicle owners have specific rights when it comes to towing, and knowing these rights can help you protect yourself from illegal towing practices and recover your vehicle without unnecessary fees or delays. This article … Read more
One of the most common concerns we hear at The DeVries Law Firm is: “Can child support take my entire paycheck?” The short answer is no, but the full answer depends on several factors, including how much you owe, how far behind you are, and what portion of your income is protected under Florida law. … Read more
Buying a home in Florida can be exciting, but it’s also a complex process with legal, financial, and procedural steps. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, having the right guidance can protect your investment and help you navigate potential challenges. Below, we’ll explore common legal issues a real estate attorney can help … Read more
A car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. From physical injuries to financial stress, the aftermath can feel overwhelming, and the steps you take immediately after can greatly impact your recovery and legal options. Unfortunately, many people make critical mistakes in the days and weeks following an accident that can hurt their … Read more
Facing wage garnishment can be overwhelming. If your wages are being garnished in Florida, it means a portion of your paycheck is being legally withheld to pay off a debt. This can create financial hardship and stress, but it’s important to know that you have options to protect yourself and potentially stop or reduce the … Read more
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, understanding the statute of limitations is crucial to protecting your legal rights. The statute of limitations is the deadline by which you must file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can prevent you from seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and … Read more
When you are overwhelmed with bills, calls from collectors, and the feeling that no matter how hard you try, you cannot keep up—bankruptcy may start to feel like your only option. But many people hesitate, asking the same question: “Do I have enough debt to file for bankruptcy in Florida?” The truth is, there is … Read more
When people hear the word “bankruptcy,” their first reaction is often fear. For many, it carries a heavy stigma. They think it means failure, losing everything, or ruining their credit forever. I know this because I have heard it directly from the people who come into my office. They sit across from me feeling embarrassed, … Read more
Planning for the possibility of incapacity is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and your future. In Florida, two common legal mechanisms help ensure your affairs are handled if you’re unable to manage them yourself: the Durable Power of Attorney (POA) and Guardianship. While both options allow someone … Read more
Florida’s personal injury laws are undergoing major updates in 2025, and if you live in Duval County, including areas like Jacksonville, Neptune Beach, or Baldwin, these changes could have a serious impact on your right to recover damages. Whether you’re involved in a car accident, school-related injury, or pursuing a lemon law claim due to … Read more