Skip to main content

Deborah Ann Byles

Divorce and separation Attorney at Fort Lauderdale, FL

5.0   20 reviews

also known as Deborah Ann Byles, P.A.

Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 27 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1996
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Deborah

Learn Deborah’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Divorce and separation
    30%
    Attorney Byles is a premier divorce attorney in Florida. If you are unwinding your marriage, call her immediately for a case evaluation so she can give you the best advice to proceed.

  2. Family
    30%
    Decades of experience in Florida with family law matters, such as divorce, custody, support, adoption and more. Stop worrying. Call now for a case evaluation.

  3. Domestic violence
    10%

  4. Mediation
    10%
    Mediation is the cheapest and cleanest way to go through divorce. The situation is tough enough without a bitter fight, so you’ll want a fair and ethical mediator for your family issue.

  5. Alimony
    5%
    How much are you paying or receiving for spousal support? Call now to talk more.

  6. Child custody
    5%

  7. Uncontested divorce
    5%
    Typically not involving children and disputes, Attorney Byles is capable of handling your uncontested divorces.

  8. Wills and living wills
    5%

COMPASSIONATE ADVOCACY IN AN EFFICIENT MANNER FOR FAMILY MATTERS IN FLORIDA. HONEST AND SINCERE.

 

I was born in Kingston, Jamaica and then moved to Florida at age 5.  After growing up in Coral Gables, Florida through 1988 I ventured off to Hofstra University, located in Long Island, New York, to obtain a Bachelor of the Arts degree, in Sociology, and two minor degrees in English and Psychology. I graduated Cum Laude from Hofstra, where I became member of Phi Beta Kappa.  Thereafter, I obtained a Juris Doctorate, with Honors, at Florida State University, where I was a member of the Moot Court Team – Mock Trial Division and the Journal of Transnational Law and Policy. I was also a member of the Governor’s Task Force on Domestic Violence, while living in Tallahassee I also worked for the Florida Bar.  I have been passionate in my practicing of law since 1996 when I was admitted into the Florida Bar. I am a Founding Member as well as a Board member of the Collaborative Professionals of South Florida, a Board member of Broward County Christian Lawyers Association, a member of the Caribbean Bar Association and the Broward Bar Association. I have experience in commercial litigation and insurance defense/worker’s compensation litigation, yet my practice area currently exclusively encompasses family and matrimonial law.

 

My Role as a Mediator:

 

In year 2002, I became a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator. As a mediator, I am a neutral third party who Facilitates and resolves family conflicts.  I assist people who are either represented by attorneys or who are Self-Represented (formerly known as “pro se” litigants).

 

Awards

Client's Choice 2016
Client's Choice
2016

Contact Deborah

Deborah Ann Byles, P.A.
413 SE 18th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  20 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Client's Choice 2016
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by Carson, Hollywood, FL. | June 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Outcome Imaginable
Deb Byles gently and professionally guided me through the divorce process. What started out as a hostile and bitter situation ended on friendly and fair terms for both parties thanks to Deb's caring and steady persistence. I could not be more pleased, as I am now on friendly terms with my ex-wife, and our family (5 children) is not fractured by hostility or resentment. I cannot imagine a better outcome for such a difficult situation. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU !!
Read less
Posted by Anthony | March 29, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledgable, caring and hard-working.
Ms. Byles was my divorce attorney. She effectively and efficiently navigated the legal process in spite of having extremely difficult, uncooperative opposition. I felt that Ms. Byles truly considered my feelings every step of the way through this very emotional time. I also felt that the outcome was the most beneficial to me under the circumstances. I would recommend Ms. Byles highly to anyone.
Read less
Posted by Marie | March 31, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
I had a very great experience working with Deborah Ann Byles. From our first meeting, I knew that she understood the complexity of my case. She explained in detail every step of the process. She is calm, compassionate and extremely knowledgeable. Her work ethic and integrity are superb. She is a fighter! I felt from the beginning to the end that she had my best interest in mind. I highly recommend Deborah Ann Byles to anyone who needs an excellent attorney.
Read less
Posted by Mark | February 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply The Best
Debora Ann Byles, Felix S. Saborio and Joe are an incredible team. I hired them to handle my divorce. I thought it was going to be a simple divorce, however, it turned into a nightmare, my ex didn’t want the divorce. Thank goodness I had Deborah’s team on my side. They helped me navigate the mess. She advised I get a restraining order, with there help, I got a restraining order, probably saving my life. Deborah’s team navigate a contentious, nasty divorce, unwavering in the most professional manner. The whole thing took two years to finalize. I truly value the excellent advise given to me. Deborah and her team were by my side the entire time. I could not have done this without them. If you need a truly professional, honest, sympathetic, caring and winning team, hire Deborah Ann Byles. They are simply the best!
Read less
Posted by Robert | February 12, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Winning Results
In mid 2019 I found I was heading towards a retirement resulting from an auto accident, and my inability to continue gainful employment and income. At this time and for six years prior I was bound under a court order for permanent (life) alimony resulting from a divorce in 2013 awarded to and paid monthly to my former spouse. This would have a significant impact on my life style and living conditions. Additionally, my financial responsibilities would also need to be re-addressed and modified. The firm successfully represented me in this matter. My ability to continue employment and afford the original award of permanent alimony was impossible and stressful. The goal was not to just reevaluate and modify the original court order, but to have that order rescinded completely. Following eighteen months of litigation the Firm successfully brought the case to a closure resulting in completely rescinding the past order and in full agreement with my former spouse and I, and as approved and certified by the court. The Firm additionally was able to keep my legal fees to a minimum understanding that I already was no longer employed and a sustainable income was no longer available. During the time the case was active I was constantly under stress being uncertain of its outcome and what would eventually become of me and my living conditions. The Firm constantly kept me in the loop as the case proceeded and provided encouragement which indeed reduced my stress levels from time to time. The Firm eventually brought the entire case to a fully successful closure and in every matter that effected my future retirement. My sincere thanks for bringing this matter to a complete and successful conclusion in my favor. May I personally thank the following persons for their professional knowledge, expertise, and the manor in which they represented me over the length of the case litigation. Deborah Ann Byles, Esq. Attorney at Law / Counselor at Law and Trained Collaborative Family Law Practitioner Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator. Legal Council: Mr. Felix F. Saborio, Esq. Office Manager: Mr. Joe Bulzacchelli My sincere thanks and appreciation to all the staff. I would certainly recommend and promote any action, and reference to the benefit of any individual'(s) that are in need of, or require legal council in matters such as mine or that are within their range of their Firms legal practice. Robert L. Feldman
Read less
Posted by Michael | November 12, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Attorney
I highly recommend Deborah who is an outstanding attorney. I received excellent legal advice on a timely basis every step of the way. She is very detailed oriented paying close attention to all legal documents and other relevant matters and issues. She performed a thorough analysis of all provided documentation and was superb during the mediation phase when she was able to recall facts and figures to support her awesome negotiation skills. Deborah exceeded all my expectations and I am extremely grateful to her for everything that she did. She is a fantastic attorney that really cares about her clients. Thank you Deborah, you are awesome!
Read less
Posted by Denelia | June 18, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate and Caring
Ms, Byles is very knowledgeable in Family Law and compassionate. I would categorize her as the “yoda” of family law. Her team handled my divorce proceedings and I’m very grateful for every panicky call that was answered. She assisted with holding my hand at every step and I would recommend her and her team 100%
Posted by Nancy | April 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Attorney and Team!!
I had the pleasure of being represented by Deb Byles and her team to handle my divorce. From the first time I met her I knew she would be protecting me and making me feel comfortable. She was very kind and compassionate through the entire process with me and very skilled and knowledgeable with the opposing counsel. She kept me informed and guided me through many different options. I can honestly say at times she seemed more like a family member to me than my divorce attorney. I know I could and can still go to her anytime to ask for her assistance in most any legal issue. Her team, including Felix and Joe are top notch. They were both very helpful and kind throughout the process. I highly recommend Deb Byles and her fabulous team!
Read less
Posted by Joel | March 22, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional attorney & wonderful person
For anyone in the unfortunate situation of having to hire a divorce attorney I would strongly recommend hiring Ms. Byles. I felt that throughout every stage of the process, utilizing her impressive knowledge and understanding of the law, she guided me on making the best possible decisions regarding my case. Besides her guidance regarding the legal aspects, I will forever be grateful to her for the emotional support and caring she provided me during this very difficult period.
Read less
Posted by Nicole | March 9, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I highly recommend Deborah Ann Byles as a divorce attorney
My experience working with Deborah Ann Byles was excellent! Deborah immediately made me feel comfortable and supported when I came to her regarding hiring her as my divorce attorney. After speaking with Deborah I immediately terminated my current divorce attorney and hired her. Deborah always took the time to make sure I understood what was happening and I felt as if I had contact with her whenever I needed it. Deborah always returned my phone calls promptly and would even call me on a weekend to update me or just to check in to see how things were going with custody issues. I feel the best way to describe Deborah is that she is compassionate and nurturing to her clients but tough with negotiations and getting you what you deserve while keeping you protected in the future. I have had some property sale issues since the finalization of my divorce and I can say I am extremely grateful that Deborah had the foresight to plan for such events. I highly recommend Deborah Ann Byles as a divorce attorney.
Read less
Posted by Cathryn | March 8, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Supportive and caring
Ms Byles and her staff are very caring and attentive to their client's needs and concerns. She helped me get through what I had hoped would be a simple divorce but turned into a very stressful one because of opposing counsel. I felt like family with the way she and her associates treated me and consider them friends. She is very professional and a great mediator...looking to be fair with everyone involved.
Read less
Posted by Antoinette | February 15, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Attorney Byles is an exceptional family law attorney and mediator.
Attorney Byles is of the highest ethical standards and is of the highest caliber family law attorney. She is a zealous advocate for her clients and is a truly compassionate representative. She is exceptionally professional, timely, and responsive. She is a firm and fair mediator, relentlessly pursuing the best outcome for all parties involved.
Read less
Posted by Ashley | February 12, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Ms. Byles is an excellent attorney and mediator!
I've known Ms. Byles for over five years. She is an excellent attorney who focuses entirely on a family practice so she is well-versed in this area of the law. She is patient, kind and has a great rapport with her colleagues. Ms. Byles is capable, responsive and reliable. I highly recommend her as counsel.
Posted by Sean | February 10, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
excellent mediator
I use Deborah often for mediation. She is excellent with my clients and is extremely helpful in bringing people to a fair and reasonable compromise. I recommend Deborah for mediation and as a family law attorney.
Posted by Stephanie | August 27, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Deborah is a fantastic mediator
I am an attorney who used Deborah as a mediator and she is a very knowledgeable attorney, really understood the issues both legally and in the best interest of this particular family . Highly recommend as either attorney or mediator!
Posted by Sandra | August 27, 2014
The Calm in My Storm...
No one wants to hire an attorney, much less a divorce attorney. It is probably one of the most emotional moments of your life, and there you are, having to face making decisions in the midst of a storm, and ultimately, the upheaval of your life, and family as you know it. Mrs. Byles was my saving grace! In a sea of lawyers that are shady at best, Mrs. Byles is a beacon of integrity and ethics set to a higher standard. Fierce, Firm and Fair!!! She is a straight shooter and only has her client's best interest at heart. If you have children, she becomes their advocate as well. Divorce has a way of turning you upside down, inside out and clueless as to what the next step at rebuilding your life needs to be. Mrs. Byles is a compassionate, caring attorney who puts the humanity back into her profession. I honestly feel blessed to have found her. She became the calm in my storm, advising, guiding, and informing me of my options and rights, but never lost sight that this was my battle. She was my advocate and I felt protected every step of the way. I was fully informed and now armed with the knowledge to make the best decisions for me and my family. There are no words to truly describe what an asset she is to the legal community, and to those who are looking for an honest, moral attorney to help guide them to the next phase of their lives. 100%... I would recommend her to my family and friends!
Read less
Posted by Mark | August 20, 2014
Highly recommended
Deborah was very helpful throughout my case. I felt that she was truly concerned about my daughter and I. She went above and beyond what I expected and is truly a great person. Her entire staff is very helpful and considerate. We have recommended her services to a friend and will do so in the future.
Posted by Cathryn | August 19, 2014
Personalized case management services
Ms. Byles and her team were always consummate professionals in dealing with my case. She often went above and beyond to make sure I was kept abreast of all the details of my case and what to expect from the opposing counsel every step of the process. I would highly recommend her as I feel she truly personalizes each case keeping the best interests of her clients in mind.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | March 19, 2013
Outstanding
Deborah is a caring and dedicated attorney. She always put my best interest first.
Posted by Andrea Williams | February 6, 2013
Best Caring Divorce & Mediator Attorney - Deborah Ann Byles
I am delighted to have this opportunity to not only thank Deborah Ann Blyes and her firm publicly but to let her know how thankful I am for her services during the time I spent with her and her firm - Felix and Joe! This firm gave me a new life! Deborah Ann Byles and her firm , are not only professional but caring. Her firm came highly recommended by a personal friend and I am extremely THANKFUL and gratified by all that they do as a team for my divorce. I had a difficult, stressful and painful divorce but they made me believe there was life after divorce. They were my rock during my difficult journey and I have never regretted meeting her team. They DELIVERED. And I know you may say, yes that's their job, but she KNOWS divorce law. Dotting every "i" and crossing every "t". Deborah and her firm, are fair, honest and will advise you according to the law, what you cannot do or have; and I know each case is different, but they gave me life again, when my other party wanted me to have nothing. The day I went into her office, I did not know what to expect. Their office is professionally homely and they sat with me and explain the process of my divorce. There were no unexpected surprises, her responses to filing was so quick, that by the time I got home from her office, I had a copy of any paper work that was filed in my email box. I like that she kept me in the loop on EVERYTHING. She has GREAT negotiating skills - and I will say again, she is a GREAT negotiator. Thank you Deborah! For any meetings or court appearance, they are on time. I got reminders to appear and through the most difficult time of my life, the 6 months I spent with her firm, they became my family. Deborah cares about you, it not about the money for her, she genuinely cares about your well being and through my struggles and sadness, my case was not just a case, she genuinely cared. If you are getting a divorce or need a family mediator, do not hesitate to contact Deborah Ann Blyes, I can reassure you, you WILL NOT be disappointed. She will get you results ( within reasons to your case). I do believe it doesn't matter if you are a male or female, you will get the same treatment for your case. She is fair - things I wanted she advised me if it was possible or not according to the law. Anyone I know going through a divorce, I am proud to recommend her to anyone and everyone. There are many lawyers out there, but there is only one Deborah Ann Byles. She knew how vulnerable and weak I was but TODAY, I stand strong, confident and empowered as she gave me and my children a new life, a new beginning. Thank you Deborah Ann Byles and your firm.
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • President
  • Deborah Ann Byles, P.A.
  • 2002 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Atlas, Pearlman & Trop
  • 1997 - 2002

Education

  • The Florida State University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1995
  • Hofstra University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1992

Associations

  • Broward County Christian Lawyers Association
  • Board of Directors
  • 2012 - Present
  • Collaborative Family Law Professionals of South Florida
  • Founding Member
  • 2001 - Present
  • Broward County Bar Association
  • Membership Committee Chairperson
  • 1996 - Present
  • Florida Bar
  • Member
  • 1996 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Section
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Caribbean Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • America's Most Honored Professionals 2016 - Top 10%
  • Americas Most Honored
  • 2016
  • Superb
  • Avvo
  • 2016
  • Upper C1 Award, Deans List
  • Who's Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges
  • 1992
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)
Given (8)
Endorse Deborah
Family Attorney | Oct 18
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I had the opportunity to work on a matter with Deborah and she is easily one of the most ethical and hardworking attorneys in the community."
Mediation Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I used Deb for a mediation in a highly contested family law case. I did not anticipate the parties being able to settle. However, with Deb's calm demeanor and expertise she was able to have the parties each find new points of view. She was quite effective by explaining the mediation process versus having a judge decide the issue. I look forward to using Deb again in the future."
Family Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"DEBORAH is an experienced and highly skilled family lawyer and mediator. She genuinely cares about her clients and will work extremely hard to ensure their best interests and those of any children involved are served. Deb has an excellent reputation among her colleagues and judiciary because of her ethics and preparedness."
Family Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I met Deborah approximately 14 years ago when we were opposing counsel on a family law case. I found Deborah to be professional, knowledgeable and confident in her abilities. I have since worked on a Collaborative divorce case with her and used her services as a mediator on numerous occasions. Deborah is a complex mix of strong advocate, compassionate mediator, and a true collaborator."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Deb Byles for the past 15 years or so and find her to be very intelligent, compassionate, and a real pleasure to work with. I have worked with Deb as a mediator and as collaborative family law professional. Each time I am impressed with her level of skill, and ability to approach complex matters head on and come up with practical solutions. I can honestly say that having her as a colleague is a pleasure. I look forward to the next opportunity to work with Deb."
Family Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A Great Mediator and professional and knowledgeable attorney."
Family Attorney | Aug 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A true professional. Incredibly knowledgeable. I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Mar 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Deborah is one of the most honest and competent mediators that I have met. She is excellent. I have used Deborah many times and she is truly remarkable. Not only is she extremely knowledgeable, she is empathetic and well liked by all who meet her. I strongly endorse Deborah as a family law mediator."
Family Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. The best family law attorney and mediator I have come across in 12 years. I highly recommend Deborah to my colleagues, family and friends."
View more endorsements

Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

Fort Lauderdale Divorce and separation Lawyer Deborah Ann Byles
Deborah Ann Byles
Divorce and separation Attorney
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Licensed for 27 years
Virtual consultation available