Practice Areas

Family Law: We Guide You Through Life's Transitions


Family is everything. But sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges your way. At A Better Direction Law, we understand that facing family law issues can be daunting. Our dedicated team is here to provide experienced and compassionate legal guidance during these difficult times.


We specialize in a wide range of family law matters, including:


  • Divorce: Considering divorce? We'll walk you through the process, ensuring a fair and respectful resolution, including issues of property division, child custody, and spousal support.
  • Child Custody & Support: Whether you're navigating an initial custody agreement or seeking modifications, we'll advocate for your children's best interests while ensuring financial stability.
  • Paternity: Establishing paternity is crucial for child support and parental rights. We'll guide you through the legal process efficiently and discreetly.
  • Custody by Extended Family Member/Concurrent Custody: We help craft agreements and solutions when there is a need for someone other than a parent to step in. 
  • Name Change


Contact Us

Divorce: Navigating Towards a Brighter Future


Divorce is a difficult decision, but you don't have to go through it alone. We at A Better Direction Law, understand the emotional and financial complexities involved in ending a marriage. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal guidance throughout the divorce process.


We'll walk you through every step, including:


  • Initial Consultation: We'll discuss your situation, answer your questions, and outline the legal process.
  • Division of Assets & Debts: Florida law follows equitable distribution, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided fairly. We'll work diligently to ensure a fair and balanced outcome.
  • Spousal Support: We'll analyze your financial situation and advocate for or against spousal support, depending on your needs.
  • Child Custody & Support: If you have children, we'll guide you through custody arrangements and secure a child support agreement that meets your children's best interests.
  • Negotiation & Mediation: Whenever possible, we strive to reach amicable settlements through negotiation or mediation, saving you time and emotional stress.
  • Trial Representation: If necessary, we will represent you confidently in court to protect your rights.


We Prioritize Client Communication & Support


We understand that divorce raises numerous questions and concerns. We are committed to clear communication and will keep you informed throughout the process. We'll address your questions promptly and ensure you feel empowered to make informed decisions.


Let Us Help You Move Forward


Divorce can be an opportunity for a new beginning. A Better Direction Law will help you navigate this transition with dignity and respect. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can guide you towards a brighter future.

Paternity: Establishing Clarity and Security for Your Family


At A Better Direction Law, we understand the importance of establishing a child's legal father. Paternity brings clarity and security for both children and parents, ensuring access to the child, fair child support, inheritance rights, and vital medical history.


Our experienced team can assist you with:


  • Paternity Establishment: We can guide you through the legal process of establishing paternity, whether through voluntary acknowledgment or DNA testing.
  • Child Support & Visitation Rights: Once paternity is established, we can help you secure fair child support and navigate a fair timesharing arrangement.
  • Modification of Existing Orders: If you have an existing child support or timesharing order that needs modification due to a change in circumstances, we can advocate for your best interests.


Benefits of Establishing Paternity:


  • Timesharing and Parental Responsibility: We help to establish a fair timesharing arrangement and a say in important decisions.
  • Financial Security: A child support order ensures financial support for your child's well-being.
  • Medical History: Knowing the child's biological father provides access to their complete medical history, crucial for preventative care and future health decisions.
  • Inheritance Rights: Establishing paternity secures the child's inheritance rights.
  • Emotional Security: Clarity about paternity can provide a sense of stability and emotional well-being for both children and parents.


We Handle Paternity Cases with Sensitivity and Efficiency


We understand the delicate nature of paternity issues. We will handle your case with sensitivity and discretion while working efficiently to achieve a positive outcome for all parties involved.


Schedule a Consultation Today


Don't let uncertainty cloud your family's future. Contact A Better Direction Law today to discuss your paternity concerns. We'll guide you through the legal process with compassion and expertise.


Contact Us

Collaborative Practice: Working Together for a Positive Resolution


At A Better Direction Law, we recognize that family law matters can be emotionally charged. While traditional litigation can be adversarial and expensive, we offer an alternative approach: collaborative practice.


What is Collaborative Practice?


Collaborative practice is a respectful and solution-oriented approach to family law disputes. Both parties, along with their collaboratively trained attorneys, work together with a neutral facilitator to reach a mutually beneficial agreement outside of court.


Benefits of Collaborative Practice:


  • Reduced Conflict & Stress: The collaborative process focuses on open communication and problem-solving, minimizing animosity and emotional strain.
  • Cost-Effective: Collaborative practice is often less expensive than traditional litigation.
  • Faster Resolutions: By working cooperatively, you can reach agreements more quickly than through the court system.
  • Control & Flexibility: You have greater control over the process and can tailor solutions to meet your specific family's needs.
  • Preserving Relationships: This approach is particularly beneficial when ongoing communication and cooperation are essential, such as co-parenting situations.


Is Collaborative Practice Right for You?


Collaborative practice works best for couples who are committed to working together respectfully to find solutions. During a consultation, we can discuss whether collaborative practice is a suitable option for your case.


Let Us Help You Find a Better Direction


If you're looking for a more amicable and cost-effective way to resolve your family law issues, collaborative practice may be the answer. Contact A Better Direction Law today to schedule a consultation and explore this alternative approach.

Limited Scope Representation: Tailored Solutions for Your Family Law Needs


At A Better Direction Law, we understand that everyone's legal needs and budgets are different. That's why we offer limited scope representation and a flexible and cost-effective approach to family law matters.


What is Limited Scope Representation?


Limited scope representation allows you to choose the specific legal services you need from Attorney Pendergrass. Instead of full case representation, you can focus on specific tasks, such as:


  • Drafting and reviewing legal documents (divorce petitions, child support agreements, etc.)
  • Negotiating settlements with your spouse's attorney
  • Preparing for court appearances on particular issues


Benefits of Limited Scope Representation:


  • Cost-Effectiveness: You only pay for the specific services you need, making legal representation more affordable.
  • Control & Flexibility: You decide which aspects of your case require an attorney's expertise.
  • Streamlined Process: Focus on the areas requiring legal guidance while handling other aspects yourself.


Limited scope representation is ideal for clients who:


  • Want legal guidance on specific aspects of their case but can manage other tasks.
  • Are comfortable navigating some of the legal process themselves.
  • Need to manage legal costs effectively.


We'll Work With You to Create a Plan


During a consultation, we will discuss your case and recommend the best approach, including whether limited scope representation is a suitable option. We'll work together to create a plan that meets your specific needs and budget.


Don't hesitate to contact A Better Direction Law today to learn more about how limited scope representation can benefit you.


Contact Us
Share by: