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Michael Ray Goodson

Family Attorney at Fort Walton Beach, FL

4.7   26 reviews
  • Licensed for 8 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2014
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

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Anchors Smith Grimsley PLC
909 Mar Walt Drive
Suite 1014
Fort Walton Beach, FL, 32547

Reviews

4.7 / 5.0
  26 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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8%
Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Family Law Matter
Michael recently represented me in a family law matter. He was both professional and knowledgeable on the matter, and he saw it through to a successful conclusion with little to know frustration or concerns on my end. I greatly appreciate the service he provided.
Posted by J | May 16, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
They made the experience bearable
Divorce is hard for anyone. I found my situation especially so. However, the staff @ Virga Mike Goodson especially, made this horrible experience so much more bearable. I am grateful for their patience & persistence in getting my case settled in a more favorable way than expected. Thank you!!!!
Posted by William | May 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Lawyer!
Anyone who may need the services of a marriage attorney should definitely use Mr. Goodson! He and his staff were outstanding! Communication was excellent and he is very understanding and listen’s to his clients! Read his bio and you will understand why we hired his expertise!
Posted by Sabrina | August 9, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney!
Mr. Goodson was wonderful to work with. I hired him after I realized the attorney I had before him wasn't doing anything for my case. I am very glad I did! He got my odd divorce situation straightened out and done and finalized in 13 months! I never thought I'd get divorced and thanks to him, I did! I definitely recommend him and the Virga law firm to anyone who needs things done right and within a timely manner! Thank you, Mr.Goodson!
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Posted by Chad | June 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible Service from Michael Goodson and Virga Law Firm
I was in the worst place when I needed a good family lawyer. Virga Law Firm, where Michael practices, popped up in my google search when I was desperately browsing for options and leaving a law firm that wasn't doing good for me. Michael is sharp, well-educated beyond law, funny, and extremely attentive to details and the process. He makes you feel safe and secure, which is priceless when all the drama of divorce is happening. He helped me get a great deal which is another priceless element of the experience. Michael is confident, chill, and just all around balanced and professional.
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Posted by Christian | June 25, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Helpful and Excellent Service
Mr. Goodson was very helpful during the entire process. From the beginning, he made sure to communicate everything that would be needed during the process and assisted me anytime that I needed help.
Posted by Michelle | January 15, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
Mr. Goodson and his team were very professional and friendly. I’d recommend Virga Law Firm to anyone looking for a great family law attorney. He works for you and is on top of making sure you are happy with the results!
Posted by Joey | January 12, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Couldn’t be happier
Couldn’t have found a better lawyer for my case, Mr Goodson made it seem very easy I’m glad that I chose him. He is often busy but always had a plan and it worked very well. If you chose him have faith in him he knows what he is doing.
Posted by Valerie | September 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest & Real
Mr. Goodson was very professional and presented to me all of my options for my case even when they were not beneficial to his wallet. I appreciated his patience and honesty with me.
Posted by alpaslan | June 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
mr
 am blown away by your integrity and all the hard work you did on my behalf. I will always be grateful for all of your efforts I wanted to say thank you for helping to resolve my case quickly. I was completely dazzled by your communication skills and courage at the court hearing.i also want to thank to mis Angela zummo and cindy baumen .you guys such agreatest team in usa .i highly recommend mr goodson .thank you again for a job well done
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Posted by Tracey | June 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dissolution of Marriage
I hired Mr Goodson to provide Simple Dissolution of Marriage services He promised and provided exactly the representation I needed in a Professional dedicated and extremely courteous manner Look no further for an attorney Hire Mr Goodson now!
Posted by Nick | October 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael Goodson is awesome!
Michael Goodson helped me with a civil issue in 2017. I find myself needing his services again, and have rehired him. He is a wonderful guy, very formal in the courtroom but will explain things concisely. I would recommend Mike to anyone needing civil law or family services!
Posted by Ilaria Harrach | July 31, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding lawyer, exceptional skills, caring nature, beyond expectations
Michael Goodson has been my lawyer for almost 2 years. Our final ruling is pending so I do not actually know how things will turn out for my child custody case yet. However, I must say, that I’m extremely happy about how Michael handled my case throughout this divorce case and during deposition, trail and every day interactions. I really believe he’s the best you can find. He truly cares about his client but he also is, with no doubts, extremely highly skilled and competent. He’s a well rounded professional figure and his 360 years degree professional background really comes to light. He just didn’t provide the most realistic, professional and sensible advice he also shined during challenging times, without breaking a sweat and providing the outmost support beyond expectations. I really feel good about the fact that no matter how my case will end, he did his very best and then some to represent me in the most competent, caring, knowledgeable way he possible could. He supported me through it all, even when sometimes my opinion did not match his. Guess what? He was ALWAYS right and he was really ALWAYS looking out for my child best interest and mine. I have not enough good things to say about Mr. Goodson. I hired him after a really good search about lawyers in the area, having heard that he was the best. He is. I picked him because his professional experience with different topics, from music performance to criminal cases made him, in my eyes, the most well rounded lawyer in the area and I was not wrong. Wether or not my case end up the way I do hope and wish, I feel like he did everything he could and then some, with excellent, superior skills, that far exceeded my expectations. If you are debating about hiring a lawyer, look no forward. He’s the guy. I’m grateful that we crossed paths no matter what the ruling will be. Thank you Michael you are a true ethical talented lawyer, hard to find nowadays! Extra bonus. Should you go to trial, he can handle it extremely well and his expertise, experience, caring nature and good advice will also help you to feel like you are well represented, calm and positive about his true outstanding efforts, no matter what.
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Posted by Josh | July 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Made a horrible situation into the best outcome!
He was a straight shooter and listened to my wants. He responded back to my messages promptly and I never felt rushed when speaking with him in meetings and phone conversations. Obviously I don’t want to have reason to retain him in the future, but if so I’d come back. I recommend not only himself but his team for any future potential clients.
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Posted by anonymous | July 10, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Current Attorney
I am currently going through an extremely difficult divorce. Michael Goodson is giving me advice that eases my mind and takes a large percentage of the fear and anxiety out of this difficult time I made the right decision hiring the Virga law firm but I am greatful that he was assigned to my case. I don't know how I would get through this without his reassurance and analytical thinking of ideas and issues I would have never thought of, which would have lead to my being taken advantage of by my spouse. I recommend this firm to any woman seeking compassionate help during a complicated divorce.
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Posted by Devin | July 2, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Attorney
For several years, I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Goodson at the State Attorney's Office. Mike was and is a solid trial lawyer, known for his hard work, preparation, and skill. Without hesitation, I recommend Mr. Goodson's services. Believe me, he will not disappoint.
Posted by Matthew | June 14, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Attorney
Mr. Goodson is professional, knowledgeable, honest, timely, trustworthy and produces results. My need for legal representation required very tight timelines, and every single one was met or exceeded. I would retain him again without question and I highly recommend his services to anyone seeking representation.
Posted by Hunter | June 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mike Goodson is amazing!
Mr. Goodson did an exceptional job handling my case and did everything in his power to make the process as quick and painless as possible. He, as well as his staff, we're always extreamly professional and maintained the same level of care and attention to detail all the way from initial consultation to final judgement. Thank you again Mike and Christina!!
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Posted by Micky | March 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Alimony
Mr. Goodson from start to finish has been amazing to bring my divorce case to a conclusion, an exceptional attorney who's kindness and dedication shines through his work.
Posted by Simon | March 21, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superb support, knowledgable, professional and delivered what was promised
Mr Goodson promised to do his best to have the situation under control within 6 months and have resolution to the case. He quoted a time frame and an amount and stuck to it, a rare situation when dealing with law. Mr Goodson was knowledgable on the subject, gave good advice and was backed up by a professional and capable office staff. The outcome of the case was very satisfactory.
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney and Counselor at Law
  • Anchors Smith Grimsley, PLC
  • 2022 - Present
  • Attorney
  • The Virga Law Firm, P.A.
  • 2016 - 2022
  • Assistant State Attorney
  • Office of the State Attorney for the 14th Judicial Circuit of Florida
  • 2014 - 2016
  • Certified Legal Intern
  • University of Florida Family Advocacy Clinic
  • 2013 - 2014
  • Certified Legal Intern
  • Office of the State Attorney, 20th Judicial Circuit Florida
  • 2013 - 2013
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Florida
  • Master of Business Administration
  • 2020
  • University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2014
  • University of Florida
  • Master of Music
  • 2011
  • University of Florida
  • Bachelor of Music
  • 2009
  • University of Florida
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 2009
View all education

Associations

  • Florida Bar, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Kiwanis International
  • Volunteer
  • 2014 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Alternate Dispute Resolution and Mediation Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Continuing Legal Education Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Children's Issues Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Domestic Violence Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Equitable Distribution Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Litigation Support Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Floridar Bar, Family Law Membership Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Publications Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Rules Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Sponsorship Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Support Issues Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Technology Committee
  • Member
  • 2018 - 2019
  • Three Rivers Legal Services, Inc.
  • Volunteer
  • 2013 - 2013
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • Rising Star
  • American Institute of Legal Advocates
  • 2018
  • Best Law Firm
  • Best of Bay 2016
  • 2016
  • Best Attorney runner-up
  • Best of Bay 2016
  • 2016
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • American Academy of Attorneys
  • N/A
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Hurlburt Field
  • Military Issues in Florida Family Law
  • 2019
  • Kiwanis chapter meeting
  • Current topics in family and criminal law
  • 2017
  • Northwest Florida Collaborative Law Group info session
  • Collaborative Law
  • 2016

Attorney endorsements

Received (12)
Given (15)
Endorse Michael
Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 27
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Mr. Goodson is a passionate, highly knowledgeable, and talented attorney. I have had the privilege of working under his supervision and then alongside him in numerous family law cases. Throughout every proceeding, Mr. Goodson has always treated his clients with respect, giving each case the time and attention necessary to reach a resolution. Additionally, he is a force to be reckoned with in the court room. I highly endorse this attorney for any family law matter a client may face."
Family Attorney | May 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Goodson is always professional, courteous, knowledgeable, and well prepared. He is rapidly developing into a top-tier family law attorney."
Family Attorney | Mar 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Mr. Goodson is a tireless advocate for his clients. He shows constant professionalism and I would trust him to handle any family law matter a potential client could face."
Family Attorney | Apr 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is a sharp and aggressive attorney who fights for his clients."
Family Attorney | Mar 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mike always strives to represent clients with the highest level of integrity and efficiency. If he is on your case, you are certainly in good hands!"
Unknown Attorney | Jan 07
Relationship: Other
"I knew Mr. Goodson when we were boh prosecutors at the State Attorney's Office in Bay County. He now practices family law and criminal defense. He is a consummate professional dedicated to his client's and their cause. I highly endorse Mr. Goodson."
Family Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse Mr. Goodson fully. I first witnessed Mr. Goodson's advocacy skills when we were opposing counsels. He is an attorney committed to zealously advocating for his clients and reaching their litigation goals. I am proud to call him a colleague."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael is aa smart hard working litigator."
Family Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Co-worker
"I work with Mike at the Virga Law Firm. Mike is a dedicated and knowledgeable attorney whom I regularly consult with in developing my case strategy. Described by many of our clients as a "shark", he brings his previous experience as a state attorney and tenacity as a prosecutor."
Family Attorney | Jan 04
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"Michael is an excellent attorney, who really cares about his clients. He works hard and is attentive to his clients' needs."
Family Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael does a good job. He is knowledgeable about the facts of The cases he works on and the facts of his cases"
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Michael Ray Goodson is a former assistant state attorney and now practices family law. He has always been well prepared and professional in his manner in my contacts with him. He is also active in the local Kiwanis Club and I have had the opportunity to see him in and out of court. His positive manner and civility in court and in the community is commendable and refreshing in the practice of law in Florida."
View more endorsements
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Car accident
Divorce and separation