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Brian Max Monk

Family Attorney at Lakeland, FL

5.0   58 reviews

also known as Brian Monk

  • Licensed for 18 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2005
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Brian

Learn Brian’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Family
    35%
    Separation; Divorce; Annulments; Appeals; Modification of Child Support; Modification of Timesharing; Modification of Alimony; Paternity Lawsuits; Prenuptial Agreements; Domestic Violence Injunctions; Guardianship; Estate and Legacy Planning, Probate and Wills.

    18 years

  2. Divorce and separation
    30%
    Separation; Divorce; Annulments; Appeals; Modification of Child Support; Modification of Timesharing; Modification of Alimony; Paternity Lawsuits; Prenuptial Agreements; Domestic Violence Injunctions; Guardianship; Estate and Legacy Planning, Probate and Wills.

    18 years

  3. Criminal defense
    12%
    All Misdemeanors; Felonies; Violations of Probation; Violation of Domestic Violence Injunction; D.U.I.; Battery; Drug Offenses; Federal Criminal Defense; and Criminal Matters in the Context of Family Law Disputes. Former Prosecutor with Trial experience in all areas.

    18 years

  4. Personal injury
    10%
    Wrongful Death Cases; Automobile Accidents; Bad Faith Insurance Claims; Slip/Trip and Fall; Premises Liability; Intentional Torts; Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress; Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress; Nursing Home Abuse and Negligence, and Dog Bite Cases.

    18 years

  5. DUI and DWI
    4%
    Refusal; High Breath Test; Walk-and-Turn; Field Sobriety Exercises; DUI Defense; Business Purposes Driving License.

    18 years

  6. Estate planning
    3%
    Wills; Trusts; Funding Your Trust; Living Wills; Durable Power of Attorney; Health Care Power of Attorney; Tangible Personal Property Memorandum; Anatomical Gift Declaration; Memorial Instructions; Trust Administration and Probate.

    18 years

  7. Debt settlement
    2%
    Bankruptcy; Collection Judgment Liens; Foreclosure Defense; Residential Short Sales; Credit Card Collections; Other Collections Cases; Garnishment Actions; and, Depositions in Aid of Execution.

    18 years

  8. Domestic violence
    2%
    Restraining Orders; Domestic Violence Injunctions; Repeat Violence Injunctions; Dating Violence Injunctions and Stalking Injunctions.

    18 years

  9. Speeding and traffic ticket
    2%
    DUI; Careless Driving; Speeding Tickets; Racing on a Highway; Inoperable Equipment; Failure to Yield Right-of-Way; Driving on a Suspended License; Failure to Provide Proof of Insurance; Failure to Obey Law Enforcement Officer; Out-of-State residents receiving citations; and, Civil Traffic Violations Involving Injury or Death.

    18 years

Brian Monk is a former prosecutor with nearly fifty (50) jury trials to his credit.  Brian received a Certificate in Family Law from the University of Florida College of Law and was named a Fellow of the UF Law Center on Children and Families.  Brian also received a Specialist degree in mental health counseling from the University of Florida.  Brian utilizes this unique background in his practice of marital and family law as well as in his handling of criminal defense and personal injury matters.

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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  58 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
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Posted by Becki | August 12, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing
I hired Mr. Monk to assist in a paternity case. I was so nervous when I hired him because I had never been though any court matters before. Him and his team truly work together like a well oiled engine. They are quick to respond, answer questions clearly, and definitely gave that piece of mind I needed. Mr. Monk had a clear strategy and his years of experience really do show in the best ways. Not to mention he is a 3rd generation attorney!! I wouldn't recommend any other attorney!!!
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Posted by Brittany | May 2, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hired Attorney
Brian Monk is a wonderful person and attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer with integrity that truly wants the best for his clients.
Posted by Liz | March 2, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonderful Lawyer and Law Firm
Brain was kind and considerate and demonstrated clear knowledge of the justice system and injunction process. He was specific and thoughtful about how we could proceed with my case and walked me through all the possible outcomes. He was specific with his instructions and his firm was very easy to work with. I highly appreciate appreciate his time and effort on my case and would highly recommend him and his law firm
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Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Father
Mr. Monk has been professional, compassionate and available to me throughout a painful divorce. He patiently explains legalities to me and is very fast in replying to me when I have questions.
Posted by Claire | April 30, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Brian Monk, excellent legal advice
Mr. Monk put his heart into my case and was very patient and professional. He provided me with good advice, and in the process he educated me about my legal rights.
Posted by CHARLOTTE | April 28, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
HIRE HIM!!
Brian Monk is great!! I would choose him 100 times over if needed! He got me exactly what I wanted and more. He worked with me through my anxiety of the case and made sure to answer every question I had. You can tell he truly cared, which you cant say about a attorney often. Thank you Brian!!
Posted by Chris | November 26, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Most Honest Attorney I know
Mr. Monk took on my case for a modification of final judgement dissolution of marriage. I am so glad I chose this man to represent me in the matter. My Former Wife’s counsel was Bruno Dezayas. Mr. Dezayas is a dishonest man, with the Court anyways. Mr. Monk never deviated from his values to sink to the level that opposing counsel did and for that I am grateful. It’s nice to know that some attorneys can be held with the highest ethical regard. I would use him again if I needed advice or counsel.
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Posted by John | October 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I have my kids!
I went in to my divorce, scared to death that the kids mom (very unstable, personality disorder), would end up with the kids almost full time due to my irregular work schedule in the travel industry. Brian Monk got me 50/50 time sharing for my 3 children and I get to be the dad I’ve always wanted to be! I called Brian In a panic several times. He always had the right words. Brian Monk under promises and over delivers. He won’t tell you what you want to hear. He will tell you what you need to know. I was in a dense fog dealing with a bad and broken marriage. I’m sorry Brian it took me so long to write you a great review. Thank you. The last few years have been peaceful and wonderful.
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Posted by Nicole | September 4, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Really listens and very honest
I called Brian Monk with a very complex family situation and the amount of time he took to consult with me was above and beyond what I expected. This is a lawyer with integrity and I don’t think highly of many.
Posted by Ken | July 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Less Stress Divorce
I started my divorce on my own but quickly came to a point where I felt I needed to get a lawyer involved to properly finish my case. I reached out to Brian Monk who was very responsive from the start. He minimized the stress of the divorce process with his experience and calm guidance. Mr. Monk is professional and honest and will work hard on your behalf. I recommend Monk Law Firm if you want experienced representation for your divorce.
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Posted by anonymous | September 11, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
Mr. Monk was exceptional in representing me in my divorce. A man of God who truly cares about his clients. I recommend him to all of my family and friends.
Posted by Wallace | August 21, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great, compassionate lawyer - and detailed oriented
Brian was the third lawyer of mine in a complicated divorce case that had plenty of loose variables. On the day of our initial consultation, and before even officially hiring him, he patiently met with me for about two hours (maybe even more) to understand my entire case and give me advice. After I hired him, he helped me navigate through the legal system by aggressively pursing a settlement but at the same time preparing for a trial. In the end, Brian helped settle the case, saving me many additional thousands of dollars. More importantly, the settlement agreement that he crafted was very well written - small details in these types of agreements make a big difference, and he really put a lot of thought and care into it, not just to end the divorce but to contemplate future issues that might (and have already) come up. I consider Brian a friend as he really showed a lot of compassion and care during my case, and I hope to stay in touch with him. Thank you again Brian.
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Posted by anonymous | January 8, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Caring and attentive
I retained Brian Monk for help with my divorce. I came to him in a time that was obviously stressful and he was open and direct about what to expect and what he might be able to do for me. He kept me informed throughout the process and gave great advice and counsel during mediation. We left there getting what we asked for, which was more than I thought I would. I felt very cared for during a stressful period in my life. I highly recommend him if you're dealing with a divorce.
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Posted by Richard | December 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Richard Miller divorce client
Mr Brian Monk did a fantastic job, after a long marriage my wife was seeking permanent alimony and attorney fees,Mr Monk proved she did not need the alimony and I didn't have means to pay, no alimony was awarded. Mr Monk is very professional and was really on top of the case, I'm very glad I got to meet and work with Mr Monk, I would recommend Brian Monk to anyone in the same situation I was in,Thanks again Mr Monk
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Posted by Taylor | December 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Brian INCREDIBLE Monk
I met with Brian under unfortunate circumstances but I have been pleased since the moment we met! He is very respectful and his mannerisms are quite pleasing. Mr. Monk helped me in a criminal case that I was involved in and he was so very quick to get to the results that I really wanted and needed. I only had to appear in court once, when on a normal basis, could have been a lengthy process. Another instance where my employer was refusing to pay what was owed, ALL Mr. Monk had to do was give them a call, and he got what was owed to me. Not to mention, he didn’t even charge me for the services he performed that day! He has been all together a blessing, and so very helpful for me. I wouldn’t go to and/or retain any other lawyer for any other reason! Mr. Brian Monk is magical! For any reason at all, you would be crazy not to pick Brian for any of your legal matters!
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Posted by anonymous | April 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Temporary Custody of Grandchild
I have only good things to say about Mr. Monk. Through all of this, Mr. Monk has 'been there' for us. When I decided to try to obtain custody of my granddaughter I had no idea what to do. I called a close friend and she recommended Mr. Monk. I will always be indebted to her for giving me his name. From the very beginning, I felt he was sincerely concerned about my granddaughter's welfare. I have found him to be compassionate and caring. He was always available to me and, for that, I'm thankful. I could call, email, or text him. He never failed to respond. I sincerely appreciate his patience with me! I could not have asked for a better attorney! I now have temporary custody of my granddaughter and I will always be grateful to Mr. Monk.
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Posted by Anne | April 23, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best attorney in the world
Mr. Monk is by far as good as they come. Over two years ago I was under the care of another attorney when suddenly for emergency reasons she dropped me and referred me to him. With all of my baggage and an incredibly difficult case with all the odds stacked up against me he was still able to win the case for me! And I mean I won completely, no negotiating, no settling, he brought forth victory! This year I needed representation again for a temporary hearing for my son, we went and he brought forth victory yet again, we still have to go to a final hearing but I have a feeling I’ll be victorious yet again! He truly cares for the best interest of his clients and even though he might be a little expensive he is worth every penny trust me! Better to spend extra than get an attorney that doesn’t care about you and dries you clean from your bank account and at worst lose your case. Please hire him trust me you won’t be disappointed.
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Posted by Stacey | October 3, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Divorce
Brian is the most amazing lawyer. He will work with you and is extremely patient. My ex made sure to drag our divorce on as long as he could and Brian was there every step of the way. We left the court room getting exactly what we were asking for since the first mediation (it was really drawn out). But he is always there for me and still checks on me to see if I’m ok. He’s like family, he cares, and is extremely empathetic. Best choice by far!!
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Posted by Denise | August 25, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great and Knowledgeable Lawyer-Injunction Case
My partner and I retained Attorny Brian Monk in a civil matter. The matter involved a request for injunction against my partner. Just to give a basic summation, it was a difficult matter for myself and partner because the neighbor was trying to have her removed from my residence (even though we could prove permanent residency). We had two incidences with our neighbor across the street where he began (instigated) shouting matches at my partner and I. He then would abuse the 911 system and call a Deputy out even though their was nothing criminal that had occurred. He even admitted to audio and video taping our residence and us coming and going from our property. On both occasions no one was criminally charged and no one even left their property to confront the other. Unfortunately, however, the neighbor felt that he had enough to meet the guidelines to seek an injunction against my partner. This is where BRIAN MONK (Attorney) and Kary Procell (Paralegal) said that they could help us. From the initial consultation to the result of the hearing, Attorney Brian Monk and Kary Procell were professional, confident, knowledgeable, and helpful in every way. Any questions we had they ensured that they were answered. Attorney Brian Monk was honest with the overall view of our case. He was savvy in the way he handled our case. Even though it was not "cut and dry" he ensured that the best interest of my partner was being able to remain in the residence was met. Attorney Brian Monk's performance in the injunction hearing was IMPRESSIVE. Attorney Brian Monk fought for "us". The Injunction was DISMISSED. We feel extremely blessed that Attorney Brian Monk represented us. Attorney Brian Monk is sharp, experienced, and intelligent. We would refer Attorney Brian Monk to anyone that is need of addressing a civil matter. THANK YOU ATTORNEY BRIAN MONK AND MS. KARY PROCELL!!!
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Posted by Chris | March 21, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Attorney
I am one of the 17% of men who have full custody of my child. There has been constant struggle with my ex wife due to instability and constant ups and downs. The ex wife was wanting to go back to court to modify time sharing. Being the out of norm custody situation- I had to find some help. My current wife and I found Brian through this site and he was everything the other reviews said and more. After our consultation we knew Brian was the one to help us. Brian took on our case and worked very hard for us. He has this cool, calm and collected air about him but he's also sharp, fierce and knows how to present a case. Our case ended up going to trial after failed attempts to come to some resolution during mediation. Brian came to court fully prepared. You could tell he did hours of research because he came with tons of other cases to back up ours. He was confident and sharp in court. He swiftly opposed the other council when needed and was so precise on his questioning. He never wavered and always remained calm and in control- but man he knew the right questions to ask and cut through my ex so swiftly and coolly. My wife and I were so impressed by his presence and techniques used in trial. We ended up winning our case thanks to Brian. Brian is worth every penny spent and is now our attorney for life. 5 stars in all areas.
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Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney/Owner
  • Monk Law Firm, PLLC
  • 2016 - Present
  • Associate Attorney
  • Boyette, Cummins & Nailos, PLLC
  • 2013 - 2015
  • Associate Attorney
  • Sessums Law Group, P.A.
  • 2009 - 2013
  • Associate Attorney
  • Law Office of Edward T. LeFever, P.A.
  • 2008 - 2009
  • Assistant State Attorney
  • State Attorney's Office of Marion County, Florida
  • 2006 - 2008
  • Associate Attorney
  • Law Office of Hoyt & Bryan, LLC
  • 2005 - 2006
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Florida
  • M.Ed., Education
  • 2004
  • University of Florida
  • Specialst, Mental Health Counseling
  • 2004
  • University of Florida Levin College of Law
  • Law
  • 2003
  • University of Florida
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2000
  • University of Florida
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 2000
  • Jesuit, Tampa
  • H.S.
  • 1996
View all education

Legal Cases

  • Salazar v. Giraldo - 2016 WL 2596051
  • Affirmed on 4/5 Issues
  • Browning v. Poirier, 128 So.3d 144 (Fla. 5th DCA 2013).
  • Certified to Florida Supreme Court
  • Phillips v. Phillips - 2D12-5431
  • Affirmed in favor of our client.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Lakeland Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Highlands County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Pro Bono Award
  • Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc.
  • 2012
  • Pro Bono Award
  • Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc.
  • 2011
  • Certificate of Family Law
  • University of Florida College of Law
  • 2003
  • Fellow, Center on Children and Families
  • University of Florida College of Law
  • 2002
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (19)
Given (22)
Endorse Brian
Family Attorney | Mar 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Feb 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 22
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Monk is an excellent attorney with a proven track record. He is an intelligent and considerate advocate providing practical legal advice as well as strong and effective skill in carrying out cases."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Aug 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Monk is a valuable asset to the legal community. I have known him for some time and can attest to his legal knowledge and skills."
Family Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brian Monk is a talented and well respected family law attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law, truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Family Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the opportunity to have a few files with Mr. Monk as opposing counsel. He handles his files with a professional manner and is very aware of his duty to be an advocate for his clients. The legal community in which we practice in is fortunate to have attorneys like Brian Monk."
Family Attorney | Jun 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with Mr. Monk on several cases. He is always professional, knowledgeable and a zealous advocate for his clients."
Family Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Other
"I have known Mr. Monk for several years. He is very professional and knowledgeable in his practice areas. I would highly recommend Mr. Monk to anyone who is searching for a top notch attorney. He works hard for his clients and gets results."
Family Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. We have worked together on many legal matters and I trust his expertise and judgment. I would retain him as my attorney in a legal matter and would recommend him to my family and friends."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brian possesses compassion, skill, trustworthiness, and dedication of the highest caliber. I first worked with him at the State Attorney's Office and then in private civil practice. Excellent attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Mr. Monk. He is a great choice for representation and is highly respected in the legal community."
Family Attorney | Feb 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Monk is an intelligent, hard working, and effective advocate for his clients."
Family Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Monk is a highly skilled attorney. He is diligent and fights hard for his clients rights."
Family Attorney | Oct 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Monk is thorough, diligent, and a true professional. I would highly recommend Mr. Monk to anyone dealing with complex family issues."
Family Attorney | Sep 01
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Mr. Monk and I used to work as prosecutors together in Marion County, Florida. He is very dedicated to his clients. He works hard and always goes the extra step for his clients."
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Avvo Contributions

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Lakeland Family Lawyer Brian Max Monk
Brian Max Monk
Family Attorney
Lakeland, FL
Licensed for 18 years