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Debra Jane Sutton

Family Attorney at Bartow, FL

4.9   44 reviews
Virtual consultation available
Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 33 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1989
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Debra

Learn Debra’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Family
    50%
    Board Certified Specialist. Handling all forms of family law including: collaborative, child custody and parenting plans, child support, alimony, domestic violence, property division, modifications, mediation, jurisdictional challenges and appeals.

    32 years

  2. Divorce and separation
    25%

  3. Appeals
    15%
    Board Certified Specialist and Charter member of the Appellate Section of the Florida Bar. We handle appellate matters in Florida state and federal courts. An additional percentage of our appellate practice relates to marital and family law cases.

    32 years

  4. Business
    10%
    Our business and civil litigation cases relate primarily to families and family owned concerns. We represent, whether related to marital dissolution, pre-nuptial planning, or otherwise, the protection of business interests.

    22 years

Awards

Client's Choice 2023,2022,2021
Client's Choice
2023 2022 2021

Photos and videos

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Contact Debra

Debra Jane Sutton
325 W Main St
Bartow, FL, 33830-4534
Sutton Law Firm
625 Commerce Dr
Lakeland, FL, 33813
Sutton Law Firm
7024 Central Avenue
Saint Petersburg, FL, 33707
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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  44 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2023
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 David | August 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Attorney nothing compares!
Rest assure hiring Ms. Sutton and her staff you will soon realize you made a smart choice and have the best team possible to handle your case. From the start and all the way through to the end, Ms. Sutton and her team were very professional, kind, compassionate and genuine. Ms. Sutton has the knowledge of the laws and and she is fearless on getting you everything that you have a legal right to. Ms. Sutton takes the time needed to keep on top of the latest new laws being implemented. She explains everything in detail and I always felt informed. I always knew she was working on my case all along the way. She has helped many clients ( as she did for me )get the best results and output while all along giving me the feeling of a personal friend that was there for me at all times. I soon realized she genuinely cared about my situation. I can't say it enough, hiring Ms. Sutton and her staff, you will soon realize, there is no one better and she is on your case from start to finish. You won't feel you are just a number. Hiring Ms. Sutton as I did you will have peace of mind knowing nothing compares or comes close, to what her office will do for you! They all are a team and they are on top of everything. I'm so grateful to all of them. Hiring Ms. Sutton was the best decision I made. You will feel that way too!
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Posted by Barbara Stone | August 21, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Competent and Caring Attorney
I was being represented by a former attorney in my divorce proceeding. I did not feel the attorney was representing me on my behalf. I immediately hired attorney Sutton, not only was she knowledgeable in divorce but she and her staff were compassionate and knowledgeable. There was definitely a sigh of relief when I realized that I finally hired an attorney that was there to represent my interest. I will always be grateful.
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Posted by Mary Ann | July 4, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Family lawyer with a lot of experience
Divorce is never planned. However, Ms. Sutton provided clear guidance and written instructions for me to prepare for the legal process. I am grateful for Ms. Sutton's representation.
Posted by Helen | June 8, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate
Ms Sutton has help me through one of the most difficult times in my life. I thank God for putting her in my path. Ms Sutton had my back through my entire divorce and much more. I highly recommend her.
Posted by Sandra | May 28, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great work
Very professional and pleasant to work with. Highly recommend her services! The office employees were awesome as well! We loved the decor and history of the building as well! Thanks again for assisting us with your legal services!
Posted by Crystal | May 15, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The attorney
There is law firms and then there is Sutton Law Firm and it's like they are not even playing in the same ledge. Ms. Sutton is a force to be reckoned with for sure but she also has an amazing team behind her, Barbie, Kerry, Sherri and Taylor are just as professional as Ms. Sutton. This an entire office went above and beyond for us. The amount of ethics that this office holds and the respect they demand it's amazing.
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Posted by Bryan | May 15, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing law firm
For 2 years I hit walls in my divorce and child custody untill 6 months ago when I found Debra Sutton. I can't began to tell you how much she has changed everything for me. I was on the verge of losing everything when I walked into her office and now she has not only gotten me back my children but more then then I expected. Not just Ms. Sutton, her entire team is amazing. She has staffed the entire office with amazing powerful women who while they never miss anything and they are not afraid of anyone, somehow they manage to do it with respect and pride. Ms. Sutton and her entire staff put my children before anything and I have never met an attorney do that, it's as if my children are one of their family members. Thank you so much to everyone at Sutton Law Firm for everything you did for me and my kids.
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Posted by Erica | March 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer & Firm -Blessed by them!
So glad I hired Ms Debra Sutton to be my lawyer, NO regrets! From start to finish Ms Sutton and her team/firm was very informative, very knowledgeable, strategic, kept me in the loop on things and took my case seriously and worked hard! Ms. Sutton is a ball of fire who works hard to achieve the best results for each unique and different case! Ms Sutton and her team went above and beyond to deliver the best results for my situation! Truly blessed and honored by Ms Sutton as I consider her and her team my family now! You won't get this kind of superior treatment anywhere else because you are NOT just a number here!
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Posted by Anita | January 29, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent attorney and staff
I highly recommend Ms.Sutton to everyone. She has incredible knowledge and very professional. Her and her staff, the ladies at the office went above and beyond, listened to me and helped me and my children through a very difficult case. They are kind and caring human being. I am forever grateful to the Sutton Lawfirm.
Posted by John | November 16, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Guardianship
You’ve made the honorable decision to help your loved one. But now what? Now you need Sutton Law. I have a disabled brother who came to live with me. I am very capable of taking care of his needs. But the legal stuff? Debra and her staff jumped in and helped me make sure we did it right. And they did it in such a nice way. I very highly recommend Sutton Law.
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Posted by Lonnie | October 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Counsel
Being out of state Debra Sutton is a excellent and understanding counsel for Fl. Law. The Firm in all aspects are professional and compassionate for all your needs.
Posted by Randy | September 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My attorney
my option is sutton law firm is hands down the best in the around a little pricey but well worth it. If I ever need a another attorney she will be who I go with.
Posted by David | August 11, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Thorough
I first met Debra Sutton when she was in Law School. We went different ways and disconnected. There came a time when I needed to seek counsel. As I was reviewing the options, I found Debra offering legal services in the area we needed. I knew she was the right choice. My family started with a consultation which led to Debra representing us. You never want a legal action to go on very long. But some things do take time. At the conclusion, every issue was addressed, and we were quite pleased. If I had to do it again, I would choose Debra.
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Posted by Kevin | July 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply the Best
I’ve known Debra Sutton for most of my life and can honestly say she has always went above and beyond no matter the task. She is super competitive and has an always win attitude. Debra is compassionate and cares deeply about people in general. You can rest assured that choosing her law firm is a solid choice that will provide you with the best possible outcome.
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Posted by Lynne | June 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Florida’s Top Attorney
Divorce is hard & no fun but if you are looking for a attorney who listens, supports you & will Fight for you, call Debra Sutton, she is Brilliant, genuinely cares, she works hard, & is Not Intimidated by Anyone. Best decision I made I just wish it was my First one!
Response from Debra Sutton September 17, 2022
Lynne, Thank you for the lovely words regarding your experience with our Firm. We certainly were challenged with all that your situation presented and were pleased to assist you in getting things resolved. We appreciate the opportunity to have represented you. Know that if you require assistance in the future, you are welcomed to give us a call.
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Posted by Andrea | June 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I highly recommended Sutton Law Firm
Sutton Law Firm is awesome. Matt Kovschak was professional and knowledgeable. He went above and beyond to help us receive the outcome we desired. If your in need of a great attorney, I would highly recommended Matt Kovschak at Sutton Law Firm.
Response from Debra Sutton September 17, 2022
Andrea, Thank you for your compliments regarding Matt Kovschak's handling of your family's legal needs. We are pleased that all was resolved and that you are able to move forward in the manner planned. Feel free to give Sutton Law Firm and Mr. Kovschak should you require legal consultation in the future.
Posted by Betty | June 21, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the best
Debra and her staff are very professional and compassionate. Through, caring and make clients very comfortable even under unpleasant circumstances. I have referred friends to their office.
Response from Debra Sutton September 17, 2022
Betty, Thank you for your input regarding your experience with our Firm. We strive to understand the circumstances our clients are facing and want to provide the type of representation we would like if similarly situated. We appreciate that you have been confident in referring others to our Firm and will do our best to continue to earn your trust.
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Posted by Nicholas | May 30, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Insightful, Empathetic and Responsive
Debra took time out of a rather busy schedule to consult and advise me on how to understand and respond to a marriage settlement challenge with opposing counsel seeking payment for attorneys fees. Debra provided a clear picture of the options available that enabled me to move forward. I would also note that Barbie who answered my initial call is responsive and helpful. Hugely helpful when you're stressed about your situation. Thank you!
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Response from Debra Sutton September 17, 2022
Nicholas, we appreciate your feedback and were happy to assist. Thank you for your complements of Barbie. She has been with the Firm a number of years, welcoming the chance to assist anyone who needs help. We hope all turned out well for you and will welcome the opportunity to be of assistance to you again should you need legal counsel.
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Posted by RUSSELL | July 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Russell Hernandez
Always had my back she has been my lawyer for twenty years and I would never go anywhere else she's simply the best.
Posted by Vicki | July 10, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Knowledgeable and Compassionate
I have hired Ms. Sutton twice and both times she has gone above and beyond. She is professional but also caring. More then once she called me to calm my anxiety about my case. Her professionalism and knowledge of the law in the courtroom made me glad she was my lawyer. Hopefully I never need a lawyer again, but if I do, I will hire Ms. Sutton.
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Cost

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Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Debra J. Sutton, P.A., d/b/a Sutton Law Firm
  • 1990 - Present
  • Staff Attorney
  • Second District Court Of Appeal
  • 1989 - 1990

Education

  • Stetson University College of Law
  • J.D. cum laude
  • 1989
  • University of South Florida
  • B.S.
  • 1986

Associations

  • Polk Women Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Kiwanis - Citrus Center
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Section, Marital and Family Certification Committee
  • Pre-Tester
  • 2014 - Present
  • Florida Bar, Appellate Practice Section, Certification
  • Pre-Tester
  • 2013 - Present
  • Care to Dance 501(c)3
  • Founder, Participant, Organizer
  • 2011 - Present
  • Optimist Club of Winter Haven
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Republican Party - National and State
  • President's Club Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • Honorary Master
  • 2001 - Present
  • Florida Rural Legal Servies
  • Volunteer Attorney
  • 1991 - Present
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • Incorporator
  • 1990 - Present
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • Charter Member
  • 1990 - Present
  • Florida Bar Appellate Practice & Advocacy Section
  • Charter Member
  • 1989 - Present
  • Polk County Trial Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 1989 - Present
  • Kiwanis - Bartow
  • Chair, Membership and Club History Book
  • N/A
  • Florida Association of Women Lawyers (FAWL)
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Polk Association of Women Lawyers (PAWL)
  • Sponsor and Member
  • N/A
  • Tenth Judicial Circuit
  • Visitation Guideline Committee
  • N/A
  • Winter Haven Women's Lawyer's Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States Supreme Court
  • Member
  • N/A
  • United States District Court, Middle District Florida
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Kiwanis - Bartow
  • Chair - Dancing Under the Stars
  • 2014 - 2017
  • Kiwanis - Bartow
  • President-Elect
  • 2014 - 2015
  • Polk Arts Alliance
  • Board of Directors
  • 2013 - 2015
  • Kiwanis - Bartow
  • Chair, Little River Band's Veteran's Day Tribute
  • 2013 - 2013
  • Tenth Judicial Circuit, Historical Society
  • Chair, Annual Gala
  • 2012 - 2012
  • Tenth Judicial Circuit, Domestic Violence Committee
  • Chair
  • 2010 - 2012
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Section, Marital and Family Law Certification Committee
  • Member
  • 2006 - 2013
  • Stetson Lawyers' Association
  • Advisory Council
  • 2005 - 2009
  • Florida Bar, Board of Legal Specialization and Edu
  • Family Law Certification Appellate Review Panel
  • 2004 - 2006
  • HELP of Fort Meade (A United Way Organization)
  • Board of Directors
  • 2002 - 2004
  • Florida Bar, Family Law Section, CLE Committee
  • Member
  • 2002 - 2011
  • Unified Family Court Implementation Committee - 10th Judicial Circuit
  • Vice Chair
  • 2001 - 2002
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • Delegate, Annual Conference
  • 2000 - 2000
  • Theatre Winter Haven
  • Cast Member, Inherit the Wind
  • 2000 - 2000
  • Florida Bar, Appellate Practice Section, Certification Committee
  • Vice Chair
  • 1999 - 2000
  • Florida Bar, Appellate Practice Section, Certification Liaison Committee
  • Chair
  • 1999 - 2000
  • Florida Bar, Appellate Practice Section CLE Committee
  • Member
  • 1999 - 2004
  • Florida Bar, Appellate Practice Section, Certification Committee
  • Member
  • 1998 - 2004
  • Florida Bar, Appellate Practice Section, Certification Committee
  • Exam Proctor
  • 1998 - 2004
  • Guardian Ad Litem Program - 10th Judicial Circuit
  • Volunteer Guardian
  • 1998 - 2003
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • Barrister
  • 1995 - 2001
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • Delegate, Annual Conference
  • 1991 - 1994
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • Administrator from Inception
  • 1990 - 2000
View all associations

Honors and Awards

  • Lawyer of Distinction
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • 2018
  • Professional Woman of Distinction
  • Sun Publishing
  • 2017
  • Best of the Best Law Firms
  • Lakeland Ledger
  • 2017
  • Professional Woman of the Year
  • National Association of Professional Women
  • 2011
  • Board Certified - Marital & Family Law
  • Florida Bar
  • 2001
  • Honorary Master
  • Willson American Inn of Court
  • 2001
  • Who's Who in American Law
  • Who's Who In American Law
  • 1999
  • Who's Who in American Law
  • Who's Who In American Law
  • 1998
  • Board Certified - Appellate Practice
  • Florida Bar
  • 1997
  • Who's Who Among Rising Young Americans
  • Who's Who Legal
  • 1991
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)
Given (1)
Endorse Debra
Family Attorney | Oct 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have the honor and privilege of knowing this extraordinary attorney through our mutual professional law firm development organization that we are both involved. I highly recommend and endorse this attorney as being one of the finest individuals and professionals that a client could ever have. Attorney Stephen Rue"
Family Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. She is a great attorney that handles family law, civil and appellate cases."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Debra is a wonderful lawyer and a wonderful person. Smart as a whip and well-respected by her peers and our judges. Highly recommend."
Family Attorney | Jul 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Debra is one of the brightest family law attorneys I know. She is also one of the better appellate attorneys in the state."
Family Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Debra Sutton and I have know each other for approximately 20 years. We have been opposing counsel on numerous cases and co-counsel on several. Her energy level is amazing. I have seen only one or two other attorneys who are able to accomplish as much for their client in a brief period of time as she. I wish that my level of organization were as great as hers. She is what as known as "double board certified" by the Florida Bar. This means she is certified in two areas of law, in her case both marital/family and appellate. Very few attorneys attain this distinction and it is silent witness to her ability to specialize in two separate areas, maintain her competence in these areas and during the entire time period have an exemplary reputation with her peers and the judiciary as to professionalism and ethical behavior. Additionally she is a current member of the Florida Bar Marital and Family Law Certification Committee, would recommend her to anybody without"
Criminal defense

Avvo Contributions

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Bartow Family Lawyer Debra Jane Sutton
Debra Jane Sutton
Family Attorney
Bartow, FL
Licensed for 33 years
Virtual consultation available