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Bonnie Klein Rhoden

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Avvo Rating10
  • Cocoa, FL
  • Licensed for 6 years
  • Free consultation
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About Bonnie

I came to Brevard County in 1977 when my family relocated from Pennsylvania.  After attending Gemini, Hoover, MCC, and Melbourne High I spent a decade in the Orlando area, returning home to Brevard County in 2004.  

 

In addition to practicing law, I was a Professor of Law at Florida Institute of Technology teaching a core class to the Pre-Law Program majors and minors.  This course is one of the first introductions for the students into the world of state and federal law. 

 

I also am part of the Brevard Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) program which provides child advocacy services at no cost to children in the Dependency Court system.  It is an excellent opportunity for volunteers and I encourage everyone to consider becoming a GAL.  

 

In my law practice I assist people and families with planning for events that may render them incapacitated or for their own passing.  These plans can include a simple will package to transfer assets upon death, govern health care decisions, and power of attorney documents.  Clients may also need a living trust, a life estate, or a Lady Bird Deed.  More complex planning can involve trusts, the use of LLC entities, or combinations of several planning tools.  

 

Because I offer a free review of a person's will I often hear, "But I don't have a will."  I am happy to explain to those without a formal will that they do actually have a will but won't like it.  Why? Because the State of Florida wrote it.  Preparing the documents in anticipation of our own passing does not have to be complicated or expensive.  In fact, spending a little on preparation will save your family many times that amount in fees, taxes, or costs when they administer your estate.  

 

The possibility of incapacity is a consideration for everyone.  Should you become incapacitated due to an illness, accident, or the aging process you need to have a plan in place.  Who will pay your utility bills, your mortgage, or your insurance premium?  What will happen to your children or your pets?  Where can your family find your health care wishes and who should make health care decisions if you cannot?  These are only some of the reasons you need to include planning for incapacity on your list of things to do.  

 

Probate is not always necesary when a loved one passes away.  However, if there are assets left behind by the deceased you should consult an attorney before any of those assets are used, transferred, or disseminated.  A free consultation can be enough to answer all the pertinent questions and if a legal probate is required - I will assist you through the process.   

 

I currently serve all counties in the State of Florida from my location in Central Florida (Brevard County).  

Practice areas

OtherEstate planningElder lawDivorce and separationFamily
  1. Family: 25%

    Family law takes a particular touch. Compassion, strong advocacy, detailed approach, tenacity, &a professional presentation for the Judges, among other things. It's important for my clients to understand the path ahead & to have the support necessary

  2. Divorce and separation: 20%

  3. Elder law: 20%

  4. Estate planning: 10%

  1. Probate: 10%

    Probate isn't always necessary (good planning can mean no probate) but when it is I will help you through the simplest form of probate available to you. You will understand every step and be involved with your case.

  2. Wills and living wills: 10%

    If you haven't done your own will the State of FL has done one for you and I bet you aren't going to like it. Don't put it off. By the time you need a will and living will it is usually too late to create them. I make it smooth and easy to navigate.

  3. Landlord or tenant: 5%

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Contact

319 Riveredge Boulevard, Suite 107
address map

Mario Gunde Peters Rhoden & Kelley

319 Riveredge Boulevard, Suite 107
Cocoa, FL, 32922

      Resume

      License
      StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
      FLMember in Good Standing201412/20/2020
      We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
      Avvo Contributions
      Legal answers252
      Legal guides0
      Awards
      Award nameGrantorDate granted
      Rising StarSuper Lawyers2020
      Rising StarSuper Lawyers2019
      Book Award, Contracts IIBarry University2012
      Summa Cum LaudeFlorida Institue of TechnologyN/A
      Work Experience
      TitleCompany nameDuration
      Attorney & Counselor at LawMario, Gunde, Peters, Rhoden & Kelley, LLC2014 - Present
      ProfessorFlorida Institute Of Technology2014 - 2015
      Judicial Law Clerk for Chief Judge Hon. John HarrisEighth Circuit Court2013 - 2013
      Elder Services UnitState Attorney's Office, 18th Judicial Circuit (Brevard & Seminole County)2013 - 2013
      Communications Director / Assistant TreasurerMulti County Campaign for Public Defender Candidate2011 - 2012
      Associations
      Association namePosition nameDuration
      Vassar B. Carlton American Inn of CourtBoard Member2016 - Present
      Vassar B. Carlton American Inn of CourtMember2015 - Present
      Brevard County Guardian Ad LitemVolunteer Child Advocate Training Graduate2014 - Present
      Estate Planning CouncilMember2014 - Present
      Florida Institute of Technology Pre-Law Advisory BoardBoard Member2013 - Present
      Brevard Neighborhood Development CoaltionVolunteer2010 - Present
      Publications
      Publication nameTitleDate
      Barry Law ReviewYou Need, I Need, We All Need to Plan for Incapacity2013
      Barry Law ReviewContracts II Book Award2012
      Education
      School nameDegreeGraduated
      Barry University Dwayne O. Andreas School of LawJD - Juris Doctor2013
      Florida Institute of TechnologyBA - Bachelor of Arts1990
      Speaking Engagements
      Conference nameTitleDate
      Barry Law Bar Exam Preparation EventFlorida Bar Examination Experience2014
      Introduction to the Law - Florida Institute of Technology"My Journey To and Through Law School to The Bar"2013
      Introduction to Law Speaker Panel"Should You Go To Law School"2012
      Legal cases
      Case nameOutcome
      Elder Fraud / Contractor FraudSuccessfully voided the financing agreement and homeowner retained equipment installed at no cost.
      EjectmentProperty was returned to Trustee without incident.
      Dependency CaseReunified child and mother.

      Reviews

      (13)
      5 Star
      		100%
      4 Star
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      3 Star
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      2 Star
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      1 Star
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      Review Bonnie Klein Rhoden

      Great to work with very knowledgeable

      Posted by

      Bonnie was great to work with very knowledgeable. Gave us half an hour of her time and made sure we understood what we were being told. Asked us to call her back and let her know the outcome
      This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
      Consulted attorney

      Could Not Ask For A Better Attorney

      Posted by

      I needed someone to help me through a difficult divorce. Bonnie came up on Google and I read some of the reviews there and called her. I got a call back within an hour and she took her time two separate times answering all my questions. It was probably 2 hours all together. Even though she wasn't the cheapest one I found I went back to her because I needed someone I trusted, who I could talk to about personal issues and sensitive financial situations, and who would take care of my situation without blowing things up just to keep the case going. We got my case done in about six months and most of that was because my husband was drawing things out and being obstinate. I didn't get everything I wanted but the resolution was fair and it considered the kids which was really important to me. I recommend Bonnie and will continue suggesting her to my friends and colleagues for legal situations - if she can't help you she'll help you find a good lawyer that does what you need.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      She is amazing

      Posted by

      I needed a power of attorney for my father that isnt doing well and she was so nice and helpful with everything and was able to get it all done very fast. I would recommend her to anyone.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Double The Cases

      Posted by

      I needed a fast response to a trust administration issue. Bonnie saw us immediately and held a beneficiary meeting so we could elect a new trustee. We only came in for a consult but left with what we needed. I recently came back to hire her for a divorce. There aren’t many attorneys out there that actually treat a person like a client and act like a Service professional. Bonnie does- she listens and takes calls and responds quickly.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Tremendous service to our family

      Posted by

      Attorney Rhoden was a complete package for my family. We have used her services for several situations including mom hired her for will planning, then she helped get mom moved to an assisted living, then she modified the will for mom. Then when mom's health failed she helped me as the power of attorney to follow the laws and get my responsibilities done. When mom passed away Bonnie helped me administer her estate which was more complicated than I imagined but the planning she did for mom made the process so much better. Now I have a brother working with her on a family law issue and I haven't even mentioned her husband Ken Rhoden who has 30 years litigating - he is fantastic representing folks in court. Wow. They make a great team and I can't overlook all the assistants who are attentive and fast and the other attorneys are helpful if Bonnie isn't available. I can't think of anything that could come up that I wouldn't go back to her or to another attorney in her firm. Just a great experience all the way around.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      Bonnie Klein Rhoden's response: Thank you very much for the kind words and endorsement. I am happy to provide the best service possible and the other 7 attorneys here also work hard alongside me. I do love my elder clients and feel that I am advocating for them when they most need it. Keep in touch!

      Don't Underestimate this Attorney

      Posted by

      When I met Bonnie she presented as a friendly professional person. I didn't read "tough lawyer" at first. Once I needed a lawyer I called her and she took time on the phone to help me and I was able to get in for a free consult in 2 days (she stayed late for me). She listened to my situation, asked questions, and then asked me what I wanted from her. This surprised me - most lawyers bluster their way through to get your money. She was thorough and detailed. I told her I wanted her advice to decide what path to take to solve my legal problem. She did that. Then we started working. Over the next several months I saw that friendly personality but I also saw a tough advocate. She prepares fully and goes to court ready to represent you. I couldn't believe she was tough dog ready to hang on to that bone on my behalf. When I'm ready to talk about a will and those health care documents she says we all need I won't go anywhere else. Ten thumbs up for this attorney.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Never a Rush unless Rush is Needed

      Posted by

      I did not feel rushed when I met with Ms. Rhoden. She spent over an hour with me even though her normal free consultation is an hour. She answered all my questions and made me copies of a few laws that I needed to be able to reference and that was before I decided to hire her. Once I did contract her to represent me she was in action lickety split and her support staff was very responsive. Not only did I get my paperwork quickly but my court date was arranged and my "issue" was resolved. I am so happy it is over. Do yourself a favor and call Bonnie - she can make family issues easier, talking about impending death of loved ones more comfortable, and she'll shoot straight with her advice and not overcharge you.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Such a great help to me and my family.

      Posted by

      I have not been treated with such respect and compassionate attention by any other attorney in all my years. At my age it was and is a blessing to be dealing with Bonnie. I have always had my phone calls answered (or quickly returned) and even have used her cell phone a few times when I had questions. Older people have different types of legal matters and Bonnie helps me find the answers (medicaid, planning for a trust, what to do with my dog when I entered a rehabilitation center, and more.) Bonnie is easy to understand and will take all the time needed to answer my questions. Even if I live forever she'll be my lawyer.

      What a pleasure to work with such a kind professional!

      Posted by

      I met Ms. Rhoden through another member of her firm. I needed some help with my estate planning and it turned out that she found a problem with the deed to my house. I never would've known about this if she had not done an outstanding job researching what the situation was. I have to admit I wondered if the extra research was needed but bingo, she found that problem and saved me and especially my children a whole lot of trouble. Then when we got to do the estate planning documents she was very kind, professional, and kept the conversations from being heavy the way talking about my own eventual death could have been. I have called several times since we signed the documents and she always calls me back or sometimes I get patched through to her cell phone and she gives me advice or answers while she is out of the office. Bonnie is an absolutely solid part of this firm and you would be lucky to have her help you with your estate and incapacity planning as she calls it. I won't go to anyone else!

      Thank you for being honest,trustworthy and having integrity!!

      Posted by

      I just wanted to take the time out to thank you for all your help and assistance today!!! I really appreciate it! You went above and beyond of what someone might have done!! May God continue to bless you and your firm.
      Bonnie Klein Rhoden's response: Kim it was my pleasure to help you. It was perfect timing and I'm hopeful you were able to achieve your desired result. Good luck to you and keep in touch!
      See all reviews

      Attorney endorsements

      (29)
      Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

      Walter Hnot,, Elder law Attorney on Apr 12, 2017
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Bonnie is an excellent attorney committed to providing the highest quality representation to clients. I endorse this attorney without reservation.

      Gail Barsky, Wills and living wills Attorney on Apr 2, 2017
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. She works hard for her clients.

      Rachel Mattie

      I have gone to Bonnie several times regarding areas outside of my legal expertise and referred a few clients to her. She is a very professional and skilled attorney. She is diligent, caring, and aggressive when needed. I definitely endorse this lawyer.

      Eric Hanson, Family Attorney on Jan 18, 2017
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I have reached out to Bonnie numerous times to help me understand complex procedural issues in my own practice and she has always happily assisted me. I can personally attest that Bonnie is one of the most intelligent, capable, and well prepared attorneys I have ever met. I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer.

      Rania Arwani, Family Attorney on Oct 18, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Bonnie is an excellent, dedicated and passionate attorney. Being a perfectionist, she puts the extra effort and goes the extra mile in all her cases. I am without doubt, endorsing Ms. Rhoden.

      Marina Melman, Elder law Attorney on Aug 11, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Excellent Attorney - I fully endorse

      Nicholas Primrose, Family Attorney on May 10, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse Ms. Rhoden. She is well respected in the legal community and a great choice to guide you in your legal matters.

      Andrew Spence, Family Attorney on May 4, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. Tough representation in a cost effective manner. I recommend and endorse Bonnie!

      Louis Montone, Wills and living wills Attorney on May 3, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I have known Bonnie for several years. She is always professional, courteous, and a pleasure to be around. She is passionate about serving her clients and is always a strong advocate for them. Bonnie is also heavily involved in her local community. Do not look any further - I highly recommend her.

      Sarah Geltz, Estate planning Attorney on Dec 16, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Bonnie is a compassionate and tireless advocate for her clients. She is knowledgable and very client focused. I would (and do) recommend her services to clients regularly.

      Nicole Boros, Estate planning Attorney on Sep 9, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse Ms. Rhoden. She is a reputable attorney and provides superior services to her clients.

      Josue Dorleus, Family Attorney on Sep 6, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse Ms. Klein - Rhoden. Sharp, top-notch lawyer with superior knowledge of the law and its intricacies. Highly recommended.

      William Kowtko

      I was fortunate enough to be a colleague of Bonnie during law school. From the first day, she has proven herself to be one of the most intelligent and honest colleagues I have had the pleasure of studying with. The hard work she put into law school has translated well into her private practice.

      Mark Clay, Family Attorney on Aug 22, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I highly endorse Mrs. Rhoden. Very knowledgeable and caring attorney who achieves great results in representing clients! I want all people to contact her for help.

      Brent Hardy, Probate Attorney on Aug 11, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse Bonnie without reservation. She has demonstrated an exceptional grasp of the law and is a superb litigator.

      James Newell, Real estate Attorney on Jul 17, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Joseph Stella, Probate Attorney on Jun 24, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. She is an outstanding Attorney she is very knowledgeable and hardworking. She is also very personable which makes it better for her clients which are often going through tough times.

      Annamaria Farrell

      I endorse this lawyer. She is very kind and will work extremely hard for her clients!

      Hovanes Margarian

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Katherine Viker, Estate planning Attorney on Apr 29, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Cost

      RATES
      • Hourly Rates$250-$350/hour
      • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs60 minutes
      PAYMENT METHODS

      Cash, Check, Credit Card