2603 Briefs

TOOLS FOR SUCCESS Edward Beshara on EB-5 immigration law best practices

PARALEGAL LOVE STORY Leesa Badley on falling in love with the future of the profession

A PUBLICATION OF

PROVIDING RELIEF

Desire Lopez Torres on handling paternity cases before final judgment

MARCH 2026 VOL. 94 NO. 3

HONORING OUR AWARDEES The 2026 Professionalism Awards Recipients

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SERVICE. INTEGRITY. LEADERSHIP. The 2026 OCBA Professionalism Awards Recipients

LETTERS FROM LEADERS

06 I PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Professionalism in Practice Keshara D. Cowans, Esq.

08 I CLERK’S CORNER

Funding the Courtroom The Honorable Tiffany Moore Russell, Esq.

FROM THE COMMITTEES

16 I IMMIGRATION LAW COMMITTEE

Tools For A Successful EB-5 Immigration Law Practice Edward C. Beshara P.A.

20 I PARALEGAL COMMITTEE

SIDEBAR: NEWS / EVENTS / UPDATES

24 I VOLUNTARY BARS Alena V. Baker, Esq.

26 I YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION Michael B. Stone, Esq.

Paralegal Love Story in 2026 Leesa Badley

LEGAL AID SOCIET Y

22 I WHAT WE DO

The Power of Temporary Relief Desire Lopez Torres

ADVERTISING DEADLINES Magazine: 10th of month prior to publication eEdition: 20th of month prior to distribution Copy: Six weeks prior to publication If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline is the next business day. Publication of advertising herein does not imply any endorsement of any product, service, or opinion advertised. The opinions and conclusions, including legal opinions and conclusions contained herein, are those of the authors and do not reflect official endorsement by the Orange County Bar Association or its officers and directors, unless specifically stated as such. ©2026 Orange County Bar Association. All rights reserved. ISSN 1947-3968

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

O CB A A PR I L LU N CHE ON 880 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 (407) 422-4551 Fax (321) 430-1558 orangecountybar.org Legal Aid Society (407) 841-8310 Citizen Dispute (407) 423-5732 Family Law Mediation (407) 423-5732 Lawyer Referral Service (407) 422-4537 Foreclosure Mediation (407) 515-4330 Young Lawyers Section (407) 422-4551

MARCH 2026 VOL.94 NO.3

Editor Kate T. Hollis Associate Editors Christine Wasula Tina Leger Columnists Alena V. Baker Michael Stone Officers Keshara Cowans, President Lisa Gong Guerrero, President-Elect Michael Barber, Treasurer Brandon Sapp, Secretary Cooper Powell, YLS President

SAVE THE DATE!

Thursday, April 16, 11�30am–1pm at Marriott Orlando Downtown 400 W. Livingston St., Orlando, FL 32801

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PROFESSIONALISM IN PRACTICE A Call to Pause and Recommit

Keshara D. Cowans, Esq., serves as a Staff

Attorney, EEO and Equity Officer, and District Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Legal Services for Orange County Public Schools (“OCPS”), the fourth-largest school district in Florida and the eighth-largest in the nation. Ms. Cowans has practiced law for over 17 years. Her primary practice areas include labor and employment, employment discrimination, and Title IX compliance. She also serves as the legal advisor for the OCPS District Police Department.

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March brings longer days and finds many of us deep in the rhythm of our practice- trial preparation, motion deadlines, and the countless demands that fill our days. Yet amid the pressure and pace of practice, it is precisely now that we must pause to remember our commitment to professionalism.

Professionalism means meeting our obligations with integrity. It means treating every person with dignity, even when we disagree with their position. It means being prepared, punctual, and honest in all our dealings. These are not lofty ideals disconnected from daily practice; they are the practical behaviors that make our legal system function.

Our profession has always been self-regulating, a privilege we must appreciate each day.

When we fall short of professional standards, we invite external regulation and undermine the independence that allows us to serve our clients zealously within the bounds of the law.

The Orange County Bar Association remains dedicated to supporting professionalism through our committees, mentoring program, and networking opportunities. I encourage each of you to recommit this month to the professional standards that brought you to this profession. Mentor young lawyers. Hold yourself and your colleagues accountable. Remember that every interaction, no matter how small, shapes the public’s perception of lawyers and the justice system.

The Briefs | MARCH 2026

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CLERK’S CORNER

FUNDING THE COURTROOM Why Legislative Action Matters for Florida’s Clerks

As the Florida Legislative Session is scheduled to come to a close this month, Clerks of Court across the state are counting on several bills filed this session that are critical to the stability and continued effectiveness of Florida’s court system. These legislative proposals reflect a broader effort to address longstanding funding challenges that impact our ability to fulfill the The Honorable Tiffany constitutional and statutory responsibilities entrusted to Clerks.

Moore Russell, Esq., Among the key measures under consideration is SB 532, sponsored by Senator Corey Orange County Clerk Simon, along with its companion bill, HB 759, sponsored by Representative David Smith. of Courts, has been a member of the This legislation would update outdated court fees and service charges by adjusting them OCBA since 2004. using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and establish a mechanism to index those fees moving forward. This approach provides a more sustainable revenue model and helps protect Clerk operations from future funding shortfalls driven by inflation and rising operational costs.

Another important proposal is HB 925, sponsored by Representative Dana Trabulsy. This bill addresses funding for critical Clerk services that currently do not have an assessed fee, provides resources necessary to support the operational impact of new judicial appointments, and helps close the funding gap associated with jury-related expenses. These are essential components of court operations that must be adequately supported to ensure timely and efficient administration of justice.

Before the legislative session began, my team and I had the opportunity to host members of Orange County’s legislative delegation for a briefing on these issues. That discussion allowed us to outline the fiscal realities facing Clerks statewide and to emphasize the importance of viewing the courtroom as an interconnected system. While judges, clerks, and justice partners have distinct roles, our responsibilities converge in every case, every hearing, and every proceeding.

As you have heard me say before, Clerks of Court perform more than 1�000 statutory and constitutional duties, yet the current revenue structure—largely dependent on fines and fees—creates volatility that undermines long-term planning and operational stability. When collections fluctuate, Clerk offices feel the impact immediately, even as workloads continue to grow and service expectations remain unchanged.

Throughout the legislative process, I remain steadfast in my commitment to providing Orange County residents with efficient, accessible, and reliable court services. Achieving that goal requires stable funding and strong partnerships. Support from our local delegation is critical, therefore I encourage you to advocate and be engaged this session as Clerks work to protect both their current and future ability to provide important services to our community.

Warm regards,

Tiffany Moore Russell Orange County Clerk of Courts

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

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SERVICE. INTEGRITY. LEADERSHIP.

The 2026 OCBA Professionalism Awards Recipients

T

he Orange County Bar Association remains steadfast in its mission to elevate civility, integrity, and professionalism within our legal community. Through educational programming, outreach initiatives, and leadership engagement, the OCBA continually reinforces the standards that define our profession at its best.

Each year, the Professionalism Awards recognize three individuals whose careers embody the principles we strive to uphold — ethical conduct, service to the profession, leadership through example, and a commitment to strengthening both the practice of law and the community it serves.

The OCBA is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of its Professionalism Awards.

Join us in honoring these remarkable individuals at The 2026 OCBA

PROFESSIONALISM AWARDS CEREMONY Thursday, March 26, 4 p.m. | Marriott Downtown Orlando Registration is available at https://bit.ly/ProAwards2026

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

Her legacy is defined not merely by milestones, but by the manner in which she carries out her responsibilities: with humility, respect, and a deep reverence for the rule of law.

The Honorable

Gisela T. Laurent

JAMES G. GLAZEBROOK MEMORIAL BAR SERVICE AWARD The Honorable Gisela T. Laurent represents the very essence of judicial leadership grounded in service, dignity, and unwavering professionalism.

As the first female Hispanic County Court Judge elected in Orange County in 2016 — and later the first female Hispanic ever appointed by any governor to the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court in 2021 — Judge Laurent has made history. Yet her legacy is defined not merely by milestones, but by the manner in which she carries out her responsibilities: with humility, respect, and a deep reverence for the rule of law.

Currently serving in the Ninth Judicial Circuit, Judge Laurent has presided over criminal, civil, and domestic relations

divisions. She also serves as Associate Administrative Judge for the Family Law Division and has been appointed to the Florida Supreme Court’s Steering Committee on Families and Children. Her commitment to the next generation is further reflected in her ongoing service on the Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention State Advisory Group.

Perhaps most notably, Judge Laurent has devoted significant time to the Florida Bar Committee on Professionalism, partnering with the Henry Latimer Center of Professionalism to promote civility and ethical conduct statewide. She understands that professionalism is not aspirational rhetoric — it is daily practice.

In the courtroom, she sets a tone of fairness and mutual respect. Outside of it, she is often the first to arrive and the last to leave at voluntary bar events and community gatherings.

Her visible presence reinforces an important message: the judiciary cares, and it is engaged.

Judge Laurent’s career reflects more than judicial excellence. It reflects leadership that strengthens public trust in our system of justice. For her service to the bar, her unwavering commitment to professionalism, and her example of principled leadership, she is a deserving recipient of the James G. Glazebrook Memorial Bar Service Award.

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PROFESSIONALISM AWARDS

Colleagues consistently describe Mr. Cannella as measured, ethical, and respectful — even in high-stakes litigation where tensions run high.

David Cannella WILLIAM TRICKEL, JR. PROFESSIONALISM AWARD For over three decades, David Cannella has built a career that exemplifies what it means to be both an exceptional trial lawyer and a steward of the profession.

A board-certified business litigator since 2010, Mr. Cannella has tried numerous jury and bench trials to verdict and has earned statewide and national recognition for his work in complex business litigation. His accolades — including repeated inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America and Florida Super Lawyers — speak to his skill and credibility in the courtroom. But it is his commitment beyond the courtroom that defines his professionalism.

Mr. Cannella is a past president of the Legal Aid Society of the Orange

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

County Bar Association and has long championed access to justice. His pro bono work includes serving as a guardian ad litem for minor children and representing a victim of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy in resolving a financial dispute — stepping in when the community needed counsel grounded in both competence and compassion.

For more than 25 years, he volunteered with the Orange County Teen Court Youth Offender Diversion Program, earning the Founder’s Award for his sustained service. He has also served on The Florida Bar’s Ninth Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee and continues to mentor

young lawyers within his firm and the broader legal community.

Colleagues consistently describe Mr. Cannella as measured, ethical, and respectful — even in high-stakes litigation where tensions run high.

He models civility not because it is required, but because it is foundational to his character. His career stands as a reminder that professionalism is not situational. It is consistent. It is deliberate. And when practiced over decades, it becomes legacy. For his distinguished career marked by integrity, mentorship, and unwavering ethical standards, David Cannella is a deserving recipient of the William Trickel, Jr. Professionalism Award.

PROFESSIONALISM AWARDS

He invests in mentorship and fosters connection within the legal community, ensuring that newer attorneys feel supported and valued.

C. Andrew Roy

LAWRENCE G. MATHEWS, JR. YOUNG LAWYER PROFESSIONALISM AWARD Andrew Roy represents the next generation of legal leadership — grounded in excellence, defined by integrity, and sustained through service.

A shareholder with Winderweedle, Haines, Ward and Woodman, P.A., Mr. Roy focuses his practice on corporate law, business transactions, and outside general counsel services.

Known for his meticulous attention to detail and disciplined approach to legal problem-solving, he has earned recognition as a Super Lawyers Rising Star and was recently named one of The Best Lawyers in America.

Yet his professional impact extends well beyond his practice.

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

Mr. Roy is a past President of the OCBA Young Lawyers Section. He continues to serve on the OCBA Executive Council and will serve as Secretary of the OCBA for the 20262027 bar year.

During his tenure with YLS, he set a tone of collaboration, mentorship, and ethical leadership that continues to influence the section today.

Peers describe him as welcoming, steady, and principled — a lawyer who leads not with ego, but with purpose. He invests in mentorship and fosters connection within the legal community, ensuring that newer attorneys feel supported and valued.

His service also includes leadership roles within the Central Florida Bankruptcy Law Association and involvement with the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Pro Se Clinic, reinforcing his commitment to both professional excellence and community access.

The Lawrence G. Mathews, Jr. Young Lawyer Professionalism Award recognizes lawyers whose conduct transcends mere compliance with ethical rules. Andrew Roy exemplifies that standard. His leadership, humility, and unwavering professionalism signal a future for the bar that is both strong and principled.

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The Law Day 5K benefits the OCBA Foundation and the OCBA Legal Aid Society

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IMMIGRATION LAW

Edward C. Beshara P.A. is Managing Attorney

of BESHARA P.A Global Migration Law Firm. He has been exclusively practicing U.S. Immigration Law and offering approvable solutions since 1983.

TOOLS FOR A SUCCESSFUL EB-5 IMMIGRATION LAW PRACTICE

What it means to be an EB-5 lawyer acting in the best interest of the client?

E

dward Beshara has for the past 34 years, practiced and represented EB-5 investor clients.

Currently, 50% of BESHARA P.A. Global Migration Law Firm practice is in the EB-5 area. Briefly, a combination of knowledge, experience, and professionalism will lead to a successful EB-5 practice. Hopefully, insight will be gained by this article which will benefit your practice.

The EB-5 Law is governed by the Reform Integrity Act of 2022, Regulations and Policies. In 2026, an EB-5 Immigrant Investor is required to Invest USD $1�050�000 or USD $800�000 if the EB-5 Regional Project is located in either, a TEA (Target Area of Employment: High Employment), a Rural Area, or in an area in which the Project involves infrastructure.

An EB-5 Investor can invest in a Direct Project (their own EB-5 U.S. Business) or an EB-5 Regional Center Business (the Regional Center is a licensed designation, connected to a New

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

Commercial Enterprise/ Job Creating Entity creating and operating a U.S. Business.), which is really separate from the control of the EB-5 Investor. In fact, EB-5 Regional Center Companies may attract greater than the Investor to a couple of hundred + per project.

and general practice. The same exclusivity and combination may also apply to practitioners in a large law firm practice.

EB-5 SPECIALIZATION

To become proficient in the EB-5 area, it will require cost and time to attend seminars, conferences co-counselling with experienced EB-5 Attorneys, and of course through practical experience representing EB-5 clients. The goal is to gain reputation as a practitioner who specializes in this area, which in turn will lead to more potential clients inquiring as to the practitioner’s services.

IMPORTANCE OF EFFECTIVE MARKETING AND ADVERTISING:

The public and potential clients need to be continually aware of the attorney’s expertise and specialized practice areas such as EB-5, according to Florida Bar Rules.

In the EB-5 area, clients and potential clients may include principals who are involved or desire to form PRACTICE INFRASTRUCTURE EB-5 regional centers and/ Attorneys practicing in the or EB-5 regional center EB-5 area might be involved projects, and also include in a number of different potential foreign national office infrastructures. investors for EB-5 projects.

Attorneys may practice in a boutique law firm either STARTING AN EFFECTIVE EB-5 exclusively practicing in PRACTICE U.S. immigration law or a Today, the clients and combination of immigration potential clients require

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IMMIGRATION LAW immediate expertise and experience the EB-5 area.

The best advice for today’s EB-5 market is if the practitioner is starting in the EB-5 area, is to co-counsel. EB-5 representation can occur without unnecessary delays; the practitioner can utilize the credible and experienced EB-5 Attorney’s. The clients and potential clients are more likely to engage the practitioner’s law firm for EB-5 representation.

TEAM OF EB-5 PROFESSIONALS

There is also an equal need to have an experienced, specialized and well-known team of professionals.

The EB-5 attorney, in giving direction, should be aware of timeline goals of the client, and the realistic time it will take for the professional team members to supply the required documentation.

The project has to be EB-5 compliant, with USCIS rules, regulations, and policies.

The team of professionals will include the EB-5 immigration attorney, securities law attorney, the economist, the business planner, for an EB-5 regional center project.

MARKETING OF AN EB-5 REGIONAL CENTER PROJECT: The EB-5 regional center

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project should be EB-5 compliant with USCIS laws, regulations and policies, but for the EB-5 regional center project to be successful it also has to be marketable.

To be marketable, the EB-5 regional center project has to be attractive to foreign national investors.

LAW FIRMS EB-5 DUE DILIGENCE

It is imperative that EB-5 attorneys offer only legal advice on EB-5 laws, regulations and policies and represent the EB-5 regional center projects and/or foreign national investors, only in this respect.

BAR COMPLIANCE

If the foreign national investor client decides to invest in a particular EB-5 regional center projects, the EB-5 regional center project may offer to pay the practitioner a finder’s fee. However, please note Bar Rules do not authorize the attorney to accept this finder’s fee and hence the attorney should not violate these Bar Rules.

OVERHEAD AND OPERATIONAL COSTS

Without doubt the EB-5 practice is labor intensive and requires a substantial amount of time by staff, and requires a substantial amount of supporting documentation.

The Briefs | MARCH 2026

It is imperative, for the practitioner to have a business plan and annual budget to account for an increase in staff and overhead costs for the increased number of clients.

In an EB-5 regional center practice, the law firm may be chosen by a broker to represent all of the foreign national investors for the EB-5 regional center project. As an example, the law firm may have to represent 50 foreign national investors.

MAINTAINING AN EFFICIENT EB-5 PRACTICE

There are many ways to effectively and efficiently manage a practice, and the key is regularity and consistency.

For instance, schedule weekly meetings with the staff to review case statuses, timelines, and deadlines for filings or work to be done.

The team effort approach is essential to the EB-5 practice which in turn benefits the clients.

BALANCE WORK AND LIFE

The EB-5 practitioner and staff look forward to coming to work each day.

Under these circumstances, the law office and practice becomes a part of the practitioners and staff lifestyle.

The EB-5 practice is not considered to be a 9-to-5 job and is considered to be

a part of the practitioner’s lifestyle.

During these times, there is always the need to balance friends, family and work, and the practitioner’s personal lifestyle.

CONCLUSION

The EB-5 clients should always have the confidence that EB-5 practitioners has the knowledge, expertise, and experience to represent them and achieve their EB-5 goals.

The EB-5 practitioners should not offer guarantees of results or offer business advice on any EB-5 project.

It is always beneficial to co-counsel with experienced EB-5 practitioners for EB-5 clients under the right circumstances.

There is a well-known phrase which summarizes this article on how to develop a successful EB-5 Law Practice: “THE LAST WORD IN SELF HELP IS HELP.”

PARALEGAL

PARALEGAL LOVE STORY IN 2026 Leesa Badley

Paralegal at Milne Law Group, P.A. and President of the Orange County Bar Association Paralegal Section

I

couldn’t help but wonder: was the greatest love story in law between (1) lawyer and client, (2) lawyer and opposing counsel, or (3) paralegal and change?

For me, the answer is paralegal and change because the modern paralegal role feels less like a job description and more like a Sci-Fi reboot romance. And honestly? I’m here for it.

Artificial intelligence now drafts pleadings, summarizes discovery, tracks time, and probably knows your Starbucks order before your supervising attorney does. The legal industry has moved far

The new paralegal archetype is no longer limited to traditional case support.

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

beyond heavy mahogany desks and red rope filing rooms. Today’s paralegal is navigating SaaS dashboards, machinelearning triage, compliance systems, and litigation support platforms that are

more complex than a relationship with a man who owns three homes yet still “isn’t ready.”

Society wants faster.

Clients want cheaper. The legal field wants automation preferably yesterday.

Standing in the middle of all of it is the paralegal, holding the script together and keeping the plot from unraveling. So, where does that leave our future paralegal protagonist?

It leaves them evolving.

The new paralegal archetype is no longer limited to traditional case support. The future paralegal is data-fluent, speaking legal technology like a second language.

They understand what can be automated, optimized,

templatized, or prebuilt before the partners even know to ask the question. They bridge human nuance with machine acceleration, without fear that technology will replace them. Instead, they use it to multiply their value.

This shift requires a mindset change as much as a skills upgrade. The role is no longer about whether something can be done but how quickly, how accurately, and how repeatable it can become.

So, what should aspiring and current paralegals be doing now?

• Learn AI-assisted drafting and review tools that improve drafting speed and consistency while maintaining legal judgment.

• Develop deeper eDiscovery expertise beyond surface-level uploads and tagging, focusing on workflows, analytics, and defensible processes.

• Understand how client expectations have permanently shifted toward efficiency, transparency, and cost control.

• Lean into strategy, not just task execution—seeing the entire matter lifecycle, not just assigned steps.

The legal profession is changing faster than

a downtown restaurant trend. But, unlike past shifts that threatened to sideline support roles, this evolution places paralegals squarely at the center.

They are no longer just assisting with legal work— they are architecting how that work gets done.

The paralegal who stays curious, data-fluent, and adaptable becomes less an assistant and more the indispensable backbone of modern legal services.

They are no longer reacting to change; they are shaping it.

So, embrace the romance. Be the protagonist. Race confidently toward your new future love, because in 2026, paralegal and change might just be the greatest love story in law after all.

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DISCOUNT SERVICES & MERCHANDISE OCBA Merchandise. Shop official OCBA apparel and accessories! Shirts, hats, visors, totes, water bottles and more.

All sales go directly to the OCBA Foundation. ustore.net/group/orange-county-bar-association OCBA Marketplace. National Purchasing Partners (NPP) helps OCBA members reduce costs with exclusive pricing for a variety of popular brands including 1-800-Flowers, AmEx, Harry & David, HP, Omaha Steaks, Sherwin-Williams, Staples, Verizon, and more. Enroll for FREE at bit.ly/OCBASavingClub To become a Preferred Vendor, contact our Advertising & Sponsorship Department.

The businesses listed herein (the“Vendors”) are not affiliated with the Orange County Bar Association (OCBA) and shall not under any circumstances be deemed to have any authority to act on behalf of the OCBA. The OCBA does not make, and expressly disclaims, any warranty, representation, responsibility, or guarantee as to (a) the quality or suitability of the Vendors, their products, or services, and (b) the duration or validity of any discount or other promotion offered by any of the Vendors.

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LEGAL AID SOCIETY

THE POWER OF TEMPORARY RELIEF Desire Lopez Torres

Temporary Relief in Florida Paternity Cases: A Strategic Tool for Attorneys.

OCBA Member Since 2024 For more information about pro bono options or opportunities with the Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association, Inc., please contact Judy Fults at JFults@legalaidocba.org or Larri Thatcher at LThatcher@ legalaidocba.org. For more information on becoming a financial donor or helping our fundraising efforts, please contact Donna Haynes, Development Director, at dhaynes@legalaidocba.org or 407-515-1850.

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of parental responsibility.

Fla. Stat. § 61�13(3) (2024).

Second, delays in filing or seeking temporary relief can allow one parent to unilaterally set living n Florida paternity cases, attorneys often overlook arrangements, routines, or school attendance that may the critical role of temporary relief, assuming be difficult to modify later. meaningful involvement can only occur after By proactively seeking temfinal judgment. This assumption can be detrimental, as temporary orders are not only available under Ch. 742 of porary orders, attorneys can protect their clients from the Florida Statutes, but can also shape the trajectory of the consequences of delay the case, protect client rights, and establish a pattern of stability that courts weigh heavily in best-interest deter- and position them for favorable long-term outcomes. minations. § 742�031, Fla. Stat. (2024). Understanding Third, attorneys must also when and how to seek temporary relief is essential for understand how tempopractitioners representing clients in parentage disputes. rary child support orders interplay with parental rights. Under Ch. 742, courts may address child Temporary relief is The first step in any patersupport prior to resolving particularly important nity case is determining time-sharing or parental whether legal parentage has for several reasons. First, responsibility. Fla. Stat. § it preserves the client’s been established. Florida 742�031(1) (2024). While law distinguishes between a opportunity for involvebiological father and a legal ment while the underlying support obligations do not confer parental access, they legal issues remain unrefather, with enforceable can demonstrate the client’s solved. In many cases, a rights flowing only from commitment and reliabilparent with recognized legal recognition. A man ity, which may support legal status may attempt is considered the legal subsequent requests for father if the child was born to limit or control contact temporary time-sharing or during a lawful marriage, he between the child and expanded parental responthe biological father. A executed a valid acknowlsibility. Strategically linking timely temporary order edgment of paternity, or can establish a baseline for support to involvement can a court entered an order time-sharing, ensuring the help establish the client’s establishing paternity dedication to the child’s child maintains a meanunder Ch. 742. § 742�10, welfare and stability. ingful relationship with Fla. Stat. (2024). Without Effective use of tempoboth parents. Temporary legal parentage, a biolograry relief requires thorough time-sharing orders also ical father cannot obtain allow attorneys to demon- client counseling. Many clitemporary time-sharing, ents mistakenly believe that strate to the court that parental responsibility, or parental involvement can relief to prevent relocation, the client is capable of consistent and responsible wait until final judgment or making early intervention that informal agreements parenting, a factor that critical. Dep’t of Health & with the other parent are Rehab. Servs. v. Privette, 617 carries significant weight sufficient. Attorneys must in the ultimate allocation So. 2d 305, 307 (Fla. 1993).

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

educate clients about the importance of early action, the distinction between biological and legal parentage, and the consequences of delay. Clear guidance at the outset helps prevent misunderstandings, reduces conflict, and strengthens the attorney-client relationship.

Documenting client involvement is another key aspect of temporary relief strategy. Courts are more likely to grant temporary time-sharing or parental responsibility when there is clear evidence of consistent, responsible participation. Records of time

spent with the child, communication with the other parent, and participation in school or medical matters can all support a temporary relief petition. This documentation can also serve as evidence of stability and commitment in later stages of the case.

Ultimately, temporary relief is not a procedural formality but a strategic necessity in Florida paternity cases. It allows attorneys to protect client rights, preserve meaningful parent-child relationships, prevent unfavorable status quos, and influence final determinations regarding

time-sharing and parental responsibility. Acting promptly, seeking temporary orders, and counseling clients on both their legal rights and strategic considerations can make the difference between uncertainty and long-term stability for both the child and the parent.

In conclusion, attorneys representing clients in Florida parentage cases must treat temporary relief as a central component of litigation strategy. Filing early, seeking temporary time-sharing and parental responsibility orders, linking child support to

involvement, and addressing potential relocation issues proactively are essential steps. By leveraging the tools provided under Ch. 742 and Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, practitioners can safeguard parental rights, demonstrate client commitment, and maximize the likelihood of outcomes that serve the child’s best interests. Fla. Stat. § 742�031 (2024) and Fla. Stat. § 61�13, (2024). Precision, urgency, and strategic use of temporary relief remain indispensable tools for effective practice in parentage litigation.

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SIDEBAR

SIDEBAR N E W S / E VE N T S / U PDAT E S

VOLUNTARY BARS February was an active and engaging month for voluntary bar associations across Central Florida. From leadership programs and CLEs to community service initiatives and celebratory gatherings, organizations continued to bring attorneys together while strengthening the legal community. The following highlights showcase just a few of the many events and initiatives led by our local bar associations this past month.

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New Year Celebration

Greater Orlando Asian American Bar Association (GOAABA)

FEBRUARY 12, 2026 / GOAABA celebrated the Lunar New Year on February 12, 2026, with a festive gathering at A Gourmet Chinese Cuisine. Attendees enjoyed delicious Chinese dishes, lively conversation, a 360 video booth, and traditional lion dance performances that brought the spirit of the New Year to life.

Then on February 19, 2026, GOAABA partnered with the OCBA Diversity & Inclusion Committee to host an important program titled “Many Voices. One Community.”

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WHO’S WHO 1 GOAABA's New Year Celebration 2 Group photo from PCPBA's Judicial Reception 3 GOAABA's New Year Celebration 4 CFAWL's participation in walk a mile in her shoes event: Allison Imber, Christina Walters, Mary Walter, Heather Meglino

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The Briefs | MARCH 2026

OTHER VOLUNTARY BAR EVENTS ON FEBRUARY 19, 2026 / Continuing a busy month of

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programming, CFAWL President Christina Russo Walters served as a panelist at the Bar Leadership Forum. The forum brought together attorneys from across the legal community for an engaging discussion on leadership, service, and professional involvement within the bar.

Later that evening, Conti Moore hosted a Table for 8 event at Winter Park Perfume and Cologne. Attendees enjoyed a curated fragrance experience along with light snacks and hors d’oeuvres while connecting with fellow members.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

Central Florida Association for Women Lawyers (CFAWL)

FEBRUARY 6, 2026 / CFAWL partnered with the Paul C. Perkins Bar Asso-

ciation (PCPBA) to host former U.S. Representative Val Demings for a luncheon discussion titled Leading with Purpose. The event brought together members of the legal community for an inspiring conversation on leadership and service.

CFAWL members also participated in the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event on February 12, 2026, benefiting Harbor House of Central Florida and raising awareness for domestic violence prevention.

Joint Luncheon

ON FEBRUARY 25, 2026 / CFAWL Book Club gathered at Digress

Wine to discuss Finding Me by Viola Davis in honor of Black History Month. A special thank you to Jamie Billotte Moses, who provided beautifully curated goodie bags for attendees.

ON FEBRUARY 26, 2026 / PCPBA also participated in community outreach on February 26, 2026, when members volunteered at Evans High School. Volunteers spoke with students about the legal system, fairness, and how communities can effect positive change.

Paul C. Perkins Bar Association (PCPBA)

FEBRUARY 6, 2026 / PCPBA had a very active month, beginning on February 6, 2026, when it partnered with CFAWL to host former U.S. Representative Val Demings for a joint luncheon.

On February 12, 2026, PCPBA joined the OCBA in hosting a Black History Month Luncheon titled Justice, Leadership, and Breaking New Ground: A Historic Conversation with Florida Bar President Sia Baker-Barnes.

The celebrations continued on February 21, 2026, when PCPBA partnered with the Black Women Lawyers Association of Central Florida (BWLACF) to host the inaugural Annual Family Reunion BBQ. Held in celebration of Black History Month, the event featured food, music, games, and community fun for attendees of all ages.

Luncheon

PCPBA also received statewide recognition at the Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division (YLD) Affiliate Outreach Conference, earning both Mid-Size Affiliate of the Year and the Public Service Project of the Year Award. Congratulations to PCPBA on these well-deserved honors.

Congratulations are also in order for BWLACF members and committee co-chairs Tashanna Hammond and Breona Gamble, who were named this year’s 36 Under 36 Award recipients by the Florida Bar YLD. The organization also received recognition at the Florida Bar YLD Affiliate Outreach Conference, where BWLACF earned the Best Oral Presentation Award.

Black Women Lawyers Association of Central Florida (BWLACF)

FEBRUARY 4, 2026 / BWLACF hosted a luncheon exploring the journey of

balancing law, motherhood, partnership, and caregiving.

Members gathered again on February 12, 2026, for a “Sip & Shop” event featuring a curated shopping experience at a local boutique, along with light bites, bubbles, and the opportunity to connect with fellow members.

ON FEBRUARY 25, 2026 / Hispanic Bar Association of Central

Florida partnered with the PCPBA to celebrate Black History Month during its monthly luncheon at the Orange County Regional History Center.

Social Events

Central Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (CFACDL)

FEBRUARY 3, 2026 / CFACDL hosted several events throughout February.

First on February 3, 2026, CFACDL hosted a Behind the Robe session featuring the Honorable Emerson Thompson. Then on February 19, 2026, CFACDL held a happy hour titled “Sips and Suits,” where attendees donated suits to support the local Public Defender’s Office.

CFACDL then continued its Behind the Robe series on February 24, 2026, with a session featuring the Honorable Kevin Weiss. The organization concluded the month on February 26, 2026, with a free CLE program titled Writs for Beginners.

Alena V. Baker, Esq., of Alena Baker Criminal

Defense, P.A., is a solo practitioner who practices primarily in the area of criminal law throughout Central Florida. She has been a member of the OCBA since 2011 and is a board member of the Criminal Law Committee of the OCBA.

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SIDEBAR

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YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION

February Luncheon

ON FEBRUARY 13TH / YLS welcomed attorney Jamie Moses, Chief Appellate

Attorney at MMPO Defense. Jamie is a past president of the Orange County Bar Association (“OCBA”), OCBA YLS, OCBA Legal Aid Society, Central Florida Association for Women Lawyers, and The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division. Jamie spoke about the path to partnership, alternative career tracks, and finding the best fit for each attorney’s career goals. Drawing from her extensive experience, Jamie shared practical guidance on challenges attorneys may encounter during their 8th year of practice. Thank you, Jamie, for the thoughtful advice and valuable perspective on professional development.

WHO’S WHO 1 Young Lawyers Section Luncheon

OTHER YLS EVENTS ON FEBRUARY 18 / the YLS hosted one of its most anticipated signature events of the year, Evening with the Judiciary. The program brought together YLS members, OCBA leadership, and members of the bench for an evening of conversation, engagement, and mentorship. Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to network, gain perspective, and strengthen relationships that support professionalism in the legal community. YLS is grateful to the judges who took time to attend and engage with our members, and to everyone who helped make the evening a success.

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MARCH 28 & APRIL 11, 2026 /

Wills For Heroes

SPRING 2026 / Great Oaks Village Field Day MAY 2026 / Book Fair at Washington Shores and Mollie Ray Elementary STAY INFORMED:

To ensure you’re always upto-date with YLS activities, please sign up for our weekly email blasts. Visit our website and click “Sign Up for YLS Emails.”

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Michael B. Stone, Esq.,

Partner at Jordan Dougherty Stone LLP, specializes in commercial litigation, first-party property, general liability, and personal injury claims. OCBA Member Since 2020.

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