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Sema Yildirim

Family Attorney at Tampa, FL

5.0   30 reviews

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About Sema

Learn Sema’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Family
    70%
    Divorce, Child-Support and Custody (Timesharing/Visitation), Relocation, Alimony.

    19 years

  2. Criminal defense
    15%

    19 years

  3. Immigration
    15%

Sema Yildirim graduated with distinction from Armstrong Atlantic State University in Savannah, Georgia and earned her Juris Doctorate law degree from the prestigious Stetson University College of Law, which has been ranked the top law school for Trial Advocacy for 20 out of 24 years. Stetson Law is also ranked as one of the top schools in legal writing. While studying law, Sema was a member of the prestigious International Moot Court Board and successfully competed against national and international law schools. It is in law school where Attorney Sema Yildirim began honing her court room and legal writing skills.

Sema spent time as an intern for the United States District court, Middle District Florida, where she helped conduct legal research and writing for the former chief judge, who also happens to be the longest serving federal judge in the United States. Attorney Yildirim also interned for Chief Judge Altenbernd at the Second District Court Appeal. Her education and training has served as the foundation for Sema’s successful law practice.

For the past 15 years, Sema has helped people from all walks of life. She is passionate about fiercely representing her clients and is a staunch advocate for women’s rights, father’s rights, and rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Sema will fight for her clients in and out of the court room and is not afraid to go to trial if necessary. She will continue fighting even after trial; Sema has two published appellate cases, where she successfully challenged the trial court’s ruling.

Sema speaks both German and Turkish, along with English, and has a national and international client base helping people with family law matters (divorce, custody, relocation, domestic violence, alimony, child support), family and investment based immigration cases, as well as criminal matters.

Giving back to the community is a priority for Sema. To help educate the public, she has given free public presentations on Fathers’ Rights and Immigrants’ Rights. In addition, Sema contributes to the broader legal community; in 2015, her article "The Pitfall of International Love" was published, which discusses the complications that can arise in marriage with . citizens. Sema has also made presentation to the Tampa Bay Paralegal Association on the subject of Parents and Timesharing with their minor children. She was a member of the Stann Givens Family Law Inn of Court here in Tampa for many years working side by side with other local family law attorneys and judges. Attorney Yildirim takes pride in mentoring young attorneys who reach out to her and guides them in her area of practice. She also frequently makes herself available to answer family law and immigration law related questions when more seasoned fellow attorneys (who practice in other areas of law) call in need of help. To Sema the practice of law is a passion—not a job.

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Licensed for 18 years
State FL
Status Member in Good Standing
Acquired 2004
Updated 02/23/2023

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

Contact Sema

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The Law Offices of Sema Yildirim, P.A.
602 South Boulevard
Tampa, FL, 33606

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  30 customer reviews
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Posted by Carlos | January 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Made the divorce process painless
Friends are still shocked I was able to finalize my divorce in 60 day. Sema made the process super simple at an affordable rate. She communicated with me every step of the way and quickly responded to all of my calls and email. Thank you Sema
Posted by Luis A. Arreola - Cornejo | January 5, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Choice
When I came to the office of Ms. Sema Yildirim, I was very worried and unaware of the whole process I was told by friends and family it was an agonizing and long diverse process, after meeting with Ms. Yildirim I was reassured she had my best interest at her hands, she guided me thru the whole process from the start and thru the paperwork, I was so impressed by the passion of her job and her clients she always kept me informed before the court meetings and not to mention how pleasant, honest and professional she is and saved me from making big financial mistakes if anyone asked me if I would refer anyone to The Law offices of Sema Yildirim, P. A I would say (Yes) she would also make you feel as if you are more than just a name or a court case number, as she truly cares for the people she represents I am convinced she is one of the best attorneys out there and I am very satisfied with my divorce outcome. Thank you very much Ms. Sema Yildirim for representing me.
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Posted by Umit | August 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Why Sema?
Here's why you should choose Sema to help you. She is extremely versatile and experienced in all legal matters that relate to simply living. Think of it as one stop shopping where you won't need to find multiple attorneys. It was such a pleasure to work with her on so many levels. I found her to be competent, diligent, efficient, thoughtful, resourceful, and caring. I have never posted a review of anyone before, but I felt I had to get the word out for Sema for helping me and my fiancee. Truly, most people get the 'willies' when thinking of attorneys, even if they are your attorney. You won't get that feeling with Sema!
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Posted by Chuck | April 13, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Chuck H.
Sema did outstanding work on my case. She made the entire process easy and kept and open line of communication. I highly recommend her because she makes you feel like and old friend from the moment you meet her.
Posted by HC | February 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
From the moment I spoke with Ms.Sema she gave the true and reality of my case, and her honesty made this process feel less painful to say the least. It also took less time then expected and I am beyond thankful as she was an incredible person and a great attorney.
Posted by David | July 12, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptionally good beyond expectation
Sema is awesome Attoney. She has great knowledge about the laws, I was in a very bad situation my repeating Attoney messed my case but Sema picked it so fast and I won my case, she gave me justice what I deserved. I truly recommend to take her as Attoney…!
Posted by EM | November 7, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
BEST AT WHAT SHE DOES
I work in the medical legal field and when faced with divorce I asked my colleagues about who to work with. Sema came highly recommend and now I know why. Divorce is an awful thing and Sema guides you through the process with experience, professionalism, and a firm yet gentle hand. You are not a case number with her. She takes the time you need to understand a process that I hope I only have to go through once. Even though I work within the legal system, this is not my field. I’m grateful to have Sema on my side. She’s meticulous and makes sure that everything that can be done is done. She’s protecting myself and my family and has literally changed the landscape of my divorce. I would recommend Sema highly, and without hesitation and I am EXTREMELY picky. SHE’S THE ABSOLUTE BEST!!!
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Posted by Burcu | November 7, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
You need a Strong Lawyer ? You found her right here!
First, i would like to thank Sema for taken care of my divorce case about 4 years ago also other cases. I would like to point out that she does a remarkable job where she will dominately fight for your rights. During the whole process as she made it as smooth , as my lawyer she has also guided me with her empowering personality which guided me to become a stronger with her outstanding positive energy and credulous work ethic she has delivered.
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Posted by anonymous | March 4, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Aggressive Lawyer you need for a Contested Divorce
Sema represented me for my contested divorce. My ex husband was vindictive and immoral and Sema immediately understood my situation and gave me the specific advice I needed. She also saw some things I hadn’t and offered some additional ideas. M husband filed a divorce in a different state to make my life miserable, but Sema helped me find a good lawyer in another state and get that case closed due to lack of jurisdiction. She’s very compassionate about what she does and she was always ready for a good fight no matter how ugly the case gets. I’m glad I chose her to help me get out of an ugly marriage. Thank you for making my divorce proceedings less stressful.
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Posted by sylvester | March 3, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
divorce attorney
The best divorce attorney ever i met with had things done in a smooth and fast way would recommend always For sure could count on her!!!!!!
Posted by Nilan | January 31, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Choice
Sema Yildrim was the best choice I made when choosing my divorce attorney. It was a difficult period for me and with all the emotions she worked with me in a very proffesional manner. Today I got my divorce done with less issues and I'm very happy. She knows exactly what she doing and she will guide you through the process.
Posted by Bryan | January 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Beyond Excellent - Exceeded Expectations
Sema Yildirim works for you. We consulted with and then hired Sema to assist us with the tedious tasks of renewing my husband’s “green card.” Despite the challenges of government timelines and paperwork, Sema worked tirelessly through the finite details, all the while making sure that we were not stressed. With a calming, caring and wonderfully accepting professional attitude and nature, we plodded together through the process which of courses ended in success. She crosses all her Ts and dots all of her Is. Not only was the journey seamless, but we were treated in her eyes as a fully legitimate and bona fide married couple, even though we are both men. We recommend Sema Yildirim without reservation. You will not be disappointed. In fact, we have hired her again to assist us with the citizenship application! you will absolutely love Sema; she goes above and beyond - exceeding all expectations!
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Posted by LJ | October 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome, Honest, and Straightforward Lawyer
I am a single father and had no idea of what rights I had as a father of a child out of wedlock. Sema helped explain all of my rights and the process that was involved in securing my paternal rights in the state of Florida. She made no promises and was very honest about the process. In the end I received 50/50 shared custody and did not have to pay child support. I received what was deemed in the best interest of my child, which was what I was seeking. I was referred to Sema by a friend who was very familiar with her work ethic and professionalism. I wish I consulted with her 5 years prior to when I did. I would have been well educated and may have saved myself a lot of grief. I consulted with a couple other attorneys and they did not make me feel comfortable with their approach to representing me in my situation. Sema gave me facts and did not over promise. I would recommend her to anyone family or friend. My conclusion was greater than I expected.
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Posted by anonymous | September 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Sema is a Warrior.
When served with a baseless motion for contempt, I consulted with a few different attorneys before finding Sema. She immediately put my mind at ease. Although the opposing counsel had no incentive to resolve the issue without going to court. (The longer he was able to drag the case out the more he was able to bill the ex-wife.) Sema went to war on my behalf and was able to get a resolution that was far better than I had dared to hope. Her legal mind, professionalism, work ethic and principled approach to the litigation is an asset to anyone who has the wisdom to choose her as their attorney. Had I known about Sema when I was going through my divorce, the outcome would have been far more equitable and much less expensive. Divorce often turns into a war. Do yourself a favor and get the advantage that comes with having Sema Yildirim as your lawyer.
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Posted by Jade | June 13, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonderful!
Sema was absolutely wonderful! She took care of everything, including all the paper work, notary needs, and just made everything so simple. All I had to do was show up. She was professional, polite, compassionate, and timely. I hope I don't ever need her services again, but if I do, she will be the lawyer I call. Sema, thank you so much for everything. Sorry this took me so long to do. Blessings!
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Response from Sema Yildirim June 19, 2018
Jade it was an absolute pleasure to represent you and I am happy it all worked out for you. I appreciate your review and kind words. Good luck in your future!
Posted by Isaiah | May 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hire Sema if you want to win!
I wholeheartedly recommend Sema Yildirim for any of your legal needs. Going through a divorce can be an overwhelming feeling. However, Sema was able to reassure me immediately that she was an excellent lawyer though her demeanor, her knowledge and her confidence in her abilities. I especially appreciated how hands-on Sema was and how diligent she was with communication. We communicated regularly via telephone, email and face to face. So, I was always aware of the progress of my case. I mean this in the nicest way possible but, Sema is a “bulldog” when defending her clients. It was clear to me that she was a tireless advocate for my parental rights and very knowledgeable about case law. Because of Sema’s hard work, I was more than satisfied with the results of my case, Sema, I’ll always appreciate you walking beside me through one of the most trying times of my life. Thanks for everything!
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Posted by Raul | May 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great partner
Sema does a great job keeping your best interests at play at all times. She advises and explains what is going on to help you make the best decision possible. She is honest and does not nickel and dime you. She was always professional and helped me stay on track towards a positive resolution.
Posted by Martha | August 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Sema Yildirim's
INS denied my husband citizenship, I hired Sema she was very confident on what she was doing, she was pronto to return phone call or e-mails, She is a very professional, a wonderful personality, just a wonderful service.
Response from Sema Yildirim August 25, 2017
Thank you! It was a pleasure fighting for your Husband's rights; and I am so glad to help your Husband get his citizenship!
Posted by D | June 24, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I Highly Recommend This Attorney!!!!
There are not enough words to show my gratitude for what Sema Yildirim has done for me. Sema is hands down the best attorney out there and I am thankful every day that I hired her. She was highly recommended to me by a friend and man was he right!!! She was my attorney for a very lengthy divorce/child custody case. She stood by my side from the beginning until the very end. Her advice was always spot on and she always managed to keep me calm. Her work ethic and attention to detail are second to none. I never felt alone throughout the entire process and she made it very easy to stay in contact with her. Her trial/courtroom experience was phenomenal during hearings. She will fight for what is right and won't let down!! In the end she was able to get me 50/50 custody (what I wanted) with minimal financial hardship. Sema was also more than fair with her pricing and worth every penny I paid her. Please take my advice and hire Sema if you need an outstanding attorney. You will never find someone more hardworking and dedicated to you.
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Response from Sema Yildirim August 25, 2017
D: It was a long and hard battle. But WE prevailed! It was truly an honor and a privilege to fight for your rights as a father; and I am glad that now you can be a part in your son's life. I could not have done it without your assistance. You always followed my advice and cooperated when needed. You're the best client any lawyer could ask for. Good luck to you and your son!
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Posted by Katie | January 18, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing !
Miss Sema was a blessing yesterday as I was sitting in the court room anxicious and nervous she was so helpful. Doing something extra and keeping her atleast an extra hour in the court room she sat with me and guided me thru proceedings and what I needed to do. What a wonderful experience with her help . God bless can't thank you enough.
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 150-300 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.4 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • President
  • The Law Offices of Sema Yildirim, P.A.
  • 2004 - Present

Education

  • Stetson University College of Law
  • 2003

Legal Cases

  • Perez v. Perez; 190 So.3d 1154 (Fla. 2nd DCA 2016)
  • Favorable for our client
  • Fotinos v. Fotinos; (Fla. 2nd DCA 2011)
  • Appellate case in favor of client

Associations

  • Suncoast UMCM Citizenship Project
  • Presentation
  • 2016 - 2016
  • Tampa Bay Paralegal Association
  • Presentation
  • 2016 - 2016
  • Hillsborough County Bar Association, Family Law Section
  • Executive Board Member
  • 2013 - 2016
  • Stan Givens Inn Court
  • Member
  • 2010 - 2018
  • Stann Givens Family Law American Inn of Court of Tampa
  • MASTER and CHAIR of the COMMUNITY OUTREACH PUPILAGE GROUP
  • 2009 - 2018
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2006 - 2008
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • German
  • Turkish

Honors and Awards

  • Avvo Rating 10
  • Avvo
  • 2019
  • Client's Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2018
  • 18 Positive Reviews
  • Avvo
  • 2018
  • Community Outreach Pupilage Group
  • Stann W. Givens Family Law American Inn of Court of Tampa
  • 2017
  • Citizenship Project Presentation
  • Suncoast UMCM
  • 2017
  • Presentation
  • Tampa Bay Paralegal Association
  • 2016
  • Marital and Family Law Section Executive Board
  • Hillsborough County Bar Association
  • 2013
  • Top Contributer
  • Avvo
  • 2012
  • Member of Stan Givens Inn of Court
  • Stan Givens Inn of Court
  • 2010
  • Member of AILA
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • 2006
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Suncoast UMCM Citizenship Project
  • Immigrants and Family Law: How the law can help you
  • 2017
  • Suncoast UMCM Citizenship Project
  • Immigrants and Family Law: How the law can help you
  • 2017

Attorney endorsements

Received (31)
Given (20)
Endorse Sema
Family Attorney | Dec 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Sema and I have been referral partners for the better part of two years now, and my clients could not be happier with the service and results they've achieved with Sema as their counsel. She has a wonderful heart and exhibits great knowledge of the tricky family law arena."
Family Attorney | Dec 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She is passionate about the law and about doing everything she can to get the best possible outcome for her clients"
Family Attorney | Jul 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. She is highly competent and knowledgeable. She will aggressively represent her clients and will return her calls quickly. I have been referring her family law cases for years"
Unknown Attorney | Apr 02
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. Aggressive representation in the court room is something every client needs. Look no further."
Immigration Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Business Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A brilliant and highly respected attorney in the legal community."
Business Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She has earned the respect and trust of fellow lawyers and clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Sep 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. A fantastic attorney. Professional, and a joy to work with and know."
Family Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Yildrim possesses a wealth of knowledge in the field of family law and will represent clients well."
Family Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Sema is an outstanding attorney who vigorously advocates on behalf of her clients."
Family Attorney | Jan 16
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Yildirim is smart, creative, hardworking and responsible. I think she is a great lawyer."
Family Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Sema does an outstanding job on serving the community on AVVO and has an outstanding reputation in her community."
Family Attorney | Sep 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She is consistent and considerate in her answers on this forum, and shows a thorough knowledge of family law."
Family Attorney | Aug 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Sema has demonstrated excellent legal knowledge in the fields of family law, immigration, and criminal defense. She is a valuable asset to those in need of legal help. I would have no reservations in recommending her to clients in her local community."
Family Attorney | Aug 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Sema Yildirim is a great asset to the Avvo community and is always willing to share her knowledge with others."
Immigration Attorney | Aug 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Yildirm has provided valuable responses and guidance to the AVVo community. Based on this I believe she would be effective to counsel to those requiring immigratory representation."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Aug 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Yildirim provides solid and well thought out advice to the users of the Avvo community. This attorney comes highly recommended."
View more endorsements
Personal injury
Immigration
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Immigration
Immigration
Admiralty and maritime
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Immigration
Criminal defense