Terrence M. DeSalvo Jr.

PRO

Terrence M. DeSalvo Jr.

also known as Terry DeSalvo Jr., Esq.

4.9
Rating: 9.6

Licensed for 13 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Naples, FL
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Child Support, Child Custody ... +5 more

1415 Panther Lane, #218, Naples, FL

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Terrence

Biography

Practice Areas

8

Practice Areas

Alimony 15%

15%
Child Custody 15%

15%
Child Support 15%

15%
Divorce and Separation 15%

15%
Marriage and Prenuptials 15%

15%
Uncontested Divorce 15%

15%
Adoption 5%

5%
Domestic Violence 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2026 2025 2024
...
+ 7

Licenses

Licensed in Florida for 13 years

State: Florida

Acquired: 2013

Member in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in Montana for 6 years

State: Montana

Acquired: 2020

Inactive

No misconduct found

Location

Law Office of Russell D. Knight

1415 Panther Lane, #218, Naples, FL, 34109

divorceattorneynaplesfl.com/about-naples-divorce-lawyer-russell-knight/

Online Presence

Other places you can find Terrence online.

Terrence M. DeSalvo Jr.'s Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

91 Client Reviews

Showing 16 - 20 of 91 reviews

Posted by Laura | April 03, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Marriage Dissolution

A friend recommended me to get a consultation. I am so grateful to Mr. Terry DeSalvo, Kristin Garza, Annette Bennett, and the Family First Team for helping me navigate my marriage dissolution. It’s been a long road with a few speed bumps. Grateful to have partnered with Mr. DeSalvo as the expert alon...g the way, giving me the map to freedom. Multiple joint businesses were involved and we figured it out. Thank you!

Posted by David | March 06, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

The best experience

Wonderful caring experience. Everyone treated me with kindness and professionalism. Divorce is a hard on any person but they knew just what to do and say. Highly recommended. Your divorce will be trying so it’s important to find a caring company to help you thru this difficult chapter. Terry was my... lawyer and Michelle was his assistant and they were right at my side the whole time. Annette and Isabella were wonderful too. Excellent customer care, always felt like they were in my corner of life. I’m very grateful. Highly recommend this law firm.

Posted by Katie B | November 07, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Best in the Business

If you're seeking a dynamic law firm to navigate your divorce, I wholeheartedly recommend Terry DeSalvo, Kristin Garza, and Annette Bennett at Family First Legal Group. They are truly the best in the business. I faced a complex divorce that lasted over two years. My first attorney lacked the necessa...ry experience for my case, and my second was nearing retirement and often unavailable or on vacation. As a result, I found myself approaching a trial date without adequate representation. Fortunately, Terry stepped in at a critical moment. Most attorneys would shy away from taking on a case with such little preparation time, but Terry confidently and quickly assessed my situation and provided a resolution in just one hour. Kristin Garza and Annette Bennett were very efficient in communicating with me daily and processing the mounds of paperwork opposing counsel requested. Terry made a strategic offer during our trial and ultimately the settlement Terry anticipated in our initial meeting was almost to the penny of what we received. He tirelessly advocated for me, standing firm against the opposing attorney, and we achieved a significant victory. My case was completed within a few months rather than the years I wasted with other attorneys. I was extremely impressed by the professionalism of the whole team. The firm is also very conscientious of their fees; they suggest ways to save you time and money in the process rather than billing frivolously. Additionally, they send interim statements ensuring you are informed of the costs all along the way, other firms do not do this. Moreover, their offices stand out from typical law firms. They prioritize families, always focusing on the most important individuals involved: the children. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making you feel supported and understood throughout the process. I highly recommend this firm for your legal representation. You’ll be in excellent hands.

Posted by Brian | October 26, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Straight Up Awesome!

I consulted with Family First Legal Group due to the mother of my daughter not allowing me to see her on a regular basis and threatening to leave the state with her. Ultimately, I ended up retaining Terry DeSalvo and I would do it again without hesitation! He listened, cared, and gave great advice. I...t’s clear that Terry cares about clients and their families and will provide excellent guidance- even if that means he bills less time- which speaks volumes about an attorney in any industry. His paralegal Michelle Wilson, and discovery coordinator Annette Bennett are both extremely attentive and personable. I am grateful to have had them assisting me along the way. I could not be happier with my choice to hire Terry DeSalvo and to have everything resolved in 90 days is amazing! Michelle Wilson, Annette Bennett and the rest of Terry‘s team are fantastic to work with, and I highly recommend Family First Legal Group should you find yourself in a situation where you need family law assistance!

Posted by Ron L | May 01, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Fantastic Law Firm!

I'm very thankful that a good friend of mine referred me to Family First Legal Group a few years back when I made the difficult decision to get divorced. The law firm took a team approach and while most of my case was expertly handled by Terry DeSalvo Jr, along with his efficient paralegal Michelle W...ilson, I was also helped on a number of occasions by Alex Peterson. My case primarily focused on child custody and Terry did a fantastic job implementing an aggressive strategy to uncover and document my ex's issues. I'm so thankful to report that after a long and drawn-out legal battle, I was granted full custody of my kids. While some may consider the legal fees for a challenging divorce like mine to be expensive, I believe that the services offered by Family First Legal Group were worth every penny. I have peace of mind every night when I put my kids to bed knowing that they are safe and that is priceless. Going through a divorce is an emotional rollercoaster but Terry and Alex offered sound legal advice throughout the entire process. I highly recommend this law firm!

See All Client Reviews

Terrence M. DeSalvo Jr.'s Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Terrence
Russell Dale Knight headshot
Russell Knight

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 23

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Terry was a formidable opposing counsel of real character. He was so good, I ended up making him my partner."

John Edward Long Jr. headshot
John Long

Mediation lawyer | May 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I was privileged to serve as mediator in one of Terry's contested cases. I was very impressed with his demeanor, competence and communication skills that, in large measure, facilitated my ability to get the case settled. His composure and professionalism goes well beyond his age and experience and bodes very well for an outstanding career. I would be very confident in any referral I send to him in the future."

John Richman Gilhart II headshot
John Gilhart

Family lawyer | Dec 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Highly professional and knowledgeable in Family Law matters. I endorse this lawyer."

Vernon W Guirguis headshot
Vernon Guirguis

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney DeSalvo represents his Cient's well, and is a true professional, in and out of court. I endorse this lawyer."

Dustin Michael Butler headshot
Dustin Butler

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 01

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have had multiple cases with Mr. DeSalvo. I have successfully mediated cases to resolution and tried cases against him. I know Mr. DeSalvo to be a prepared and detailed oriented adversary. He is also a true professional and gentleman throughout the process."

Christopher William Whitney headshot
Christopher Whitney

Divorce and separation lawyer | May 02

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Mr. Desalvo is highly professional lawyer while still advocating for his client's position. I have known him for a number of years, and I endorse him."

Douglas Evan Spiegel headshot
Douglas Spiegel

Family lawyer | Apr 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Terrence DeSalvo is professional and knowledgeable. I personally have had cases with him and found him to be honest and compassionate about his case and client."

Joseph Cerino headshot
Joseph Cerino

Family lawyer | Apr 19

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Terry and I have opposed each other in several family law cases. He is trustworthy and represents his clients well. I endorse this lawyer."

Sam Richard Assini headshot
Sam Assini

Family lawyer | Jul 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. DeSalvo for some time. Mr. DeSalvo is passionate about his work in the family law arena. Mr. DeSalvo is a competent and seasoned attorney who is always prepared to either amicably resolve the case if that is in his clients best interests or litigate the case through trial if settlement negotiations become fruitless."

Laurence Jay Smith headshot
Laurence Smith

Family lawyer | Jul 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Terry. He is an up and coming attorney, with impeccable judgment and insight. Terry is highly motivated. He will make his clients proud, as he does his fellow workers."

Ginine Marie Hanco headshot
Ginine Hanco

Family lawyer | Jul 09

Relationship: Co-worker

"Terry has been a member of our firm since January 2015. In that time, I have come to know Terry as a caring professional who goes the extra mile for his clients. Terry takes the time to understand each case and to advocate for his client's position."

Matthew Paul Irwin headshot
Matthew Irwin

Family lawyer | Jul 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. DeSalvo truly knows his Florida Statutes and case law. Never compromises on ethics, and always maintains his professionalism. A great attorney in this writer's opinion."

View All Endorsements
Russell Dale Knight headshot
Russell Knight

Family lawyer

Vernon W Guirguis headshot
Vernon Guirguis

Family lawyer

Dustin Michael Butler headshot
Dustin Butler

Divorce and separation lawyer

Douglas Evan Spiegel headshot
Douglas Spiegel

Family lawyer

Joseph Cerino headshot
Joseph Cerino

Family lawyer

Matthew Paul Irwin headshot
Matthew Irwin

Family lawyer

Laurence Jay Smith headshot
Laurence Smith

Family lawyer

Ginine Marie Hanco headshot
Ginine Hanco

Family lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.6 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Client's Choice, Avvo

2024

Client's Choice, Avvo

2024

Florida Rising Stars List, Super Lawyers

2023

Client's Choice, Avvo

2023

Florida Rising Stars List, Super Lawyers

2022

Client's Choice, Avvo

2022

Florida Rising Stars List, Super Lawyers

2021

Client's Choice, Avvo

2021

Florida Rising Stars List, Super Lawyers

2020

Client's Choice, Avvo

2019

Client's Choice, Avvo

2018

Client's Choice, Avvo

2018

Very Good, Avvo

2017

Very Good, Avvo

2017

Client's Choice, Avvo

2017

Pro Bono Challenge, Florida Rural Legal Services

2012

Highest Grade Book Award (Alternative Dispute Resolution), Florida Coastal School of Law

2012

Dean's List (Spring), Florida Coastal School of Law

2012

Cum Laude, Florida Coastal School of Law

2011

Best Opening (Trial Practice), Florida Coastal School of Law

2011

Dean's Scholar List (Spring), Florida Coastal School of Law

2010

Dean's List (Fall), Florida Coastal School of Law

2007

Magna Cum Laude, Florida Gulf Coast University

2007

Dean's List (Spring), Florida Gulf Coast University

2006

President's List (Summer), Florida Gulf Coast University

2006

Dean's List (Spring), Florida Gulf Coast University

2005

Dean's List (Fall), Florida Gulf Coast University

2003

Dean's List (Spring), Youngstown State University

2002

Dean's List (Fall), Youngstown State University

Work Experience

2025 - Present

Senior Partner, Law Office of Russell D. Knight

2020 - 2025

Partner, Family First Legal Group

2019 - 2020

Junior Partner, Family First Legal Group

2015 - 2019

Associate, Men's Rights Law Firm

2014 - 2014

Associate, Dennis Hernandez & Associates, PA

2013 - 2014

Solo Practitioner, The Law Office of Terrence M. DeSalvo Jr., PLLC

2011 - 2011

Certified Legal Intern, State Attorney's Office (20th Circuit)

2010 - 2010

Judicial Intern with County Court Judge, Lee County Justice Center

Associations

2020 - Present

Montana State Bar

Member

2020 - Present

Collier County Bar Association

Member

2013 - Present

Florida Bar

Member

2013 - Present

Florida Bar, Family Law Section

Member

2013 - 2019

Lee County Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

16-DR-4876

Final Judgment of Paternity, Granted

08-DR-3148

Former Husband's Emergency Motion for Return of Minor Child, Granted

12-DR-5847

Father's Motion for Contempt and Enforcement Granted, Mother found in Contempt.

15-DR-1326

Husband retained 100% time-sharing with the minor child, with the Wife retaining supervised time-sharing.

15-DR-031783

Final Judgment of Injunction for Protection against Domestic Violence for Husband, Granted.

15-DR-031764

Final Judgment of Injunction for Protection against Domestic Violence, on behalf of the children, Denied.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2012

Florida Coastal School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2007

Florida Gulf Coast University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2026

The Desert Summit - RDK Annual Retreat (Scottsdale, AZ) Organization Strategies and Philosophy in the Practice of Law

2020

Firm Workshop

Administrative Hearings and The Department of Revenue

2013

Networking

Legal Services

Publications

2025

Law Office of Russell Knight Linkedin Welcome Terry DeSalvo, Senior Partner

2024

The Florida Family Law Podcast Attorney Spotlight - Partner Terry DeSalvo

2021

The Adverse Witness, Collier County Bar Associatio Collier County Bar Bulletin Board Announcements - DeSalvo Named Partner

2015

Family First Legal Group Facebook

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution