The Vette Law Team
Servicing Lake Worth, Palm Beach, Broward County and more.
Nicole Vette, Esq.
Nicole Vette - South Florida Divorce Lawyer & Family Law Attorney
Nicole Vette is an experienced divorce lawyer and family law attorney in South Florida, helping clients in Boynton Beach, Lake Worth, Fort Lauderdale, Stuart, and surrounding areas navigate divorce, child custody, alimony, and other family law matters. Nicole has been practicing family law for over a decade, focusing exclusively on helping families resolve legal and emotional issues related to divorce, parenting, and financial matters.
Nicole earned her Juris Doctor (summa cum laude) from Shepard Broad College of Law at Nova Southeastern University, graduating in the top 3% of her class. She is licensed to practice law in both Florida and Colorado.
Throughout her career, Nicole has represented clients in:
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Divorce and legal separation
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Child custody and time-sharing
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Child support and alimony (spousal support)
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Paternity cases
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Domestic violence injunctions and restraining orders
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Enforcement and contempt proceedings
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Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
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Name changes and stepparent adoptions
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Modification of custody, support, or alimony orders
Nicole is also a trained Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator and Collaborative Divorce Attorney, offering alternative dispute resolution to help clients avoid the stress and expense of litigation when possible. However, when necessary, she has significant trial experience in complex divorce and custody cases.
With offices in Lake Worth, Stuart, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Nicole serves clients throughout Palm Beach County, Broward County, Martin County, and the surrounding South Florida communities. Her goal is to guide clients through both the legal process and the emotional challenges of family law disputes, with compassionate advocacy and personalized legal strategies.
Nicole has been selected as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers from 2021 to 2025, a recognition awarded to top family law attorneys.
Erica V. Rubin, Esq.
Erica Rubin - Divorce Lawyer & Family Law Attorney in South Florida
Erica Rubin is an experienced divorce lawyer and family law attorney serving clients across South Florida, including Boynton Beach, Stuart, Palm Beach County, and Martin County. She helps individuals and families navigate divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, and all aspects of family law.
South Florida Divorce & Family Law Attorney
Attorney Erica Rubin focuses exclusively on divorce and family law cases, providing trusted legal counsel and strong advocacy in:
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Divorce and legal separation
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Child custody and parenting plans (time-sharing)
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Child support and spousal support (alimony)
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High-net-worth divorce and complex property division
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Paternity and fathers’ rights cases
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Domestic violence injunctions and restraining orders
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Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
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Stepparent adoptions and name changes
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Modifications and enforcement of existing family court orders
In addition to litigation, Erica Rubin is trained in collaborative divorce and is a certified Florida Supreme Court Family Law Mediator, helping clients resolve disputes efficiently, privately, and with less stress whenever possible.
Experienced, Compassionate Representation
Erica Rubin understands that divorce and family law matters involve both legal and personal challenges. She takes a personalized, compassionate approach to help clients navigate the emotional, financial, and legal complexities of:
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Divorce proceedings
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Parenting decisions
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Property and asset division
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Child and spousal support
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Custody disputes and modifications
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Mediation and collaborative divorce options
Serving Clients Across South Florida
With offices in Boynton Beach and Stuart, Florida, Attorney Erica Rubin represents clients throughout Palm Beach County, Martin County, and the South Florida region.
Whether negotiating a settlement or representing clients in court, Erica is committed to protecting her clients’ rights and guiding them toward the best possible outcomes.
Melanie Kalmin Marcus, Esq.
Melanie Kalmin Marcus is a respected family law attorney dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate divorce, custody, support, and other family-related legal matters with empathy, integrity, and results-focused advocacy. Known for her clear communication and compassionate counsel, Melanie is committed to reducing the emotional and financial strain of litigation by achieving strong outcomes through mediation and negotiation whenever possible.
With a proven success rate in settling family law disputes, Melanie empowers clients by offering personalized legal strategies tailored to their unique needs. When a case requires court intervention, she is a skilled and prepared litigator who fights to protect her clients’ interests.
Melanie believes that informed clients make better decisions. She takes the time to understand each client’s situation, explaining how the law applies and what outcomes are realistic, just take a look at her 5-star google reviews. Her combination of legal knowledge, compassionate guidance, and practical problem-solving makes her a trusted ally during life’s most difficult transitions.
Before shifting her focus to family law in 2021, Melanie practiced in the realm of healthcare law. Ultimately, she transitioned into family law to make a deeper personal impact—helping people directly during their most vulnerable moments.
Melanie is a proud graduate of Florida International University College of Law. Melanie has been honored as a Super Lawyers Rising Star for three consecutive years (2023–2025), a prestigious recognition awarded to the top family law attorneys demonstrating excellence, peer respect, and professional achievement.
When she’s not practicing law, Melanie enjoys traveling with her husband, staying active through fitness, and exploring the outdoors with her beloved bernedoodle, Winnie.
MariaJose Rivera, Esq.
Maria Jose Rivera - Divorce Lawyer & Family Law Attorney in South Florida
Maria Jose Rivera is a skilled divorce lawyer and family law attorney with over 13 years of experience helping clients throughout South Florida, including Boynton Beach, Stuart, Palm Beach County, and Martin County. She represents individuals and families in divorce, child custody, child support, domestic violence, and a wide range of family law matters.
Experienced Family Law Attorney Serving South Florida
Attorney Maria Jose Rivera has built a strong reputation for providing personalized, compassionate, and aggressive legal representation. She handles all areas of family law, including:
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Divorce and dissolution of marriage
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Complex asset division in high-net-worth divorce cases
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Child custody, parenting plans, and time-sharing
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Child support and alimony (spousal support)
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Paternity and fathers’ rights cases
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Domestic violence injunctions and restraining orders
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Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
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Stepparent adoptions and name changes
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Modifications and enforcement of custody, support, and alimony orders
Maria Jose’s experience includes not only family law litigation but also domestic violence and criminal law matters, giving her a broad and versatile background when advocating for her clients inside and outside the courtroom. She is a tenacious litigator who fights fiercely for her clients’ rights.
Bilingual Representation & Commitment to the Hispanic Community
As a Miami native and the daughter of Nicaraguan immigrants, Maria Jose Rivera is deeply committed to serving the Hispanic community in South Florida. She is fully fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to effectively advocate for Spanish-speaking clients facing divorce, custody, and other family law challenges.
Personalized Legal Attention for Every Client
Attorney Rivera believes every client deserves individualized attention, recognizing that each family law case is unique and highly personal. She is known for her:
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Detail-oriented approach
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Clear and compassionate communication
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Strong advocacy inside and outside the courtroom
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Dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients
Professional Affiliations
Maria Jose Rivera is a member of the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar Association and stays actively involved in Florida's legal community to ensure her clients receive up-to-date, knowledgeable representation.
Serving Clients Across South Florida
With offices located in Boynton Beach and Stuart, Florida, Attorney Rivera represents clients throughout Palm Beach County, Martin County, and all of South Florida.
Lauren Wages, Esq.
Lauren Wages - Tampa Civil Litigation Attorney & Family Law Lawyer
Lauren Wages, Esq., is an experienced civil litigation and family law attorney serving clients throughout Tampa, Hillsborough County, and the surrounding Tampa Bay area. With over 12 years of legal experience, Lauren represents individuals, businesses, and organizations in a wide range of civil disputes, litigation matters, and family law cases.
Experienced Tampa Litigation Attorney
Attorney Lauren Wages handles a broad range of civil litigation matters, including:
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Contract disputes and breach of contract cases
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Insurance disputes and coverage claims
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Employment law matters and employer defense
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Condominium and homeowner’s association (HOA) disputes
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Property damage claims
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Personal injury claims
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Appeals and post-trial matters
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Civil trial litigation and motion practice
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Mediation, negotiation, and alternative dispute resolution
Lauren has successfully represented large insurance companies, financial institutions, banks, retail companies, non-profit organizations, employers, and individual clients. Her litigation background includes extensive trial experience, having successfully first-chaired numerous non-jury trials and argued dispositive motions and evidentiary hearings.
Tampa Family Law Attorney
In addition to her civil litigation practice, Lauren Wages also handles family law cases, representing clients in:
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Divorce and dissolution of marriage
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Child custody and parenting time disputes
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Child support and alimony (spousal support)
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Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
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Modifications and enforcement of family law orders
Lauren provides compassionate, responsive, and effective representation to family law clients navigating the emotional and legal challenges of divorce, custody, and support matters.
Bar Admissions & Legal Background
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Admitted to the Florida Bar in 2011 (Cum Laude graduate)
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Admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida in 2017
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Over a decade of litigation experience in the Tampa Bay area
Dedicated, Client-Focused Representation
Attorney Lauren Wages is committed to providing personalized legal representation that prioritizes each client’s unique goals and concerns. She is known for:
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Clear and responsive client communication
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Strategic and thorough case preparation
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Strong advocacy in negotiations and at trial
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Practical, cost-effective solutions to complex legal disputes
Serving Clients Throughout the Tampa Bay Area
Lauren Wages represents clients across the Tampa Bay region, including:
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Tampa
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Hillsborough County
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Pinellas County
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Pasco County
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Polk County
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Manatee County
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Sarasota County
Sheryl Cochran Theodore, J.D.
Sheryl Cochran Theodore, J.D.
Senior Paralegal | Family Law Specialist | Florida Bar Candidate
Sheryl Cochran Theodore, J.D., is the senior paralegal at our firm and an integral part of our legal team. With over two decades of experience in the legal field, Sheryl brings extensive knowledge and hands-on expertise in Florida family law, including divorce, child custody, alimony, and complex marital matters. She has worked with law firms since 2002, dedicating the majority of her career to supporting clients through some of life’s most challenging legal situations.
Sheryl earned her Juris Doctorate from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida, and holds a master’s degree in criminology with a minor in criminal justice from Florida Atlantic University. Currently, she is preparing to sit for the Florida Bar Exam, further demonstrating her commitment to professional growth and legal excellence.
Balancing her education with full-time work and family responsibilities, Sheryl exemplifies exceptional drive, time-management, and the ability to thrive under pressure—qualities that benefit our clients every day. Her dedication ensures that every client receives organized, compassionate, and highly skilled legal support.
Sheryl resides in Lake Worth, Florida with her husband, teenage daughter, and their beloved dog, Luna. She remains passionate about helping families navigate the legal system with confidence, clarity, and care.
Kim Prendergast
Kim Prendergast
Office Manager | Legal Administrative Assistant | Law Firm Operations Specialist
Kim Prendergast serves as the Office Manager and Legal Administrative Assistant at our firm, playing a vital role in ensuring the smooth daily operations of the office and providing essential support to our attorneys, staff, and clients. With a natural talent for organization, time management, and attention to detail, Kim helps keep the firm's workflow efficient and client-focused.
Before transitioning into the legal field, Kim built a strong foundation of care and compassion as a nurse, where she excelled at supporting patients through challenging times. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and handle complex situations translates seamlessly into the fast-paced environment of family law and legal services.
Driven by her interest in the legal profession and supported by her family, Kim shifted her career to law firm administration. Today, she brings her nurturing personality and outstanding organizational skills to every task, from managing busy attorney calendars and scheduling client appointments to coordinating firm operations and maintaining critical legal documentation.
Kim’s approachable communication style allows her to work effectively with clients, attorneys, and legal professionals, ensuring that every client interaction is handled with care, professionalism, and efficiency.
A proud resident of South Florida, Kim enjoys spending time with her family, supporting her husband's business, and being actively involved in her children’s activities. In her free time, you’ll often find her boating, attending Orange Theory classes, watching romantic comedies, and cheering at her daughter’s cheerleading events.
Joely Espana
Joely Espana
Paralegal | Family Law Specialist | Client Advocate
Joely Espana is a highly skilled and compassionate Family Law Paralegal at Vette Law, where she provides essential support to both clients and attorneys navigating complex legal matters. With specialized expertise in divorce, child custody, alimony, and family law litigation in Florida, Joely plays a pivotal role in helping clients through some of life’s most sensitive and emotionally charged situations.
At Vette Law, Joely manages a broad range of responsibilities, including conducting in-depth legal research, preparing detailed legal documents, organizing case files, and assisting attorneys with trial preparation. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that all pleadings, filings, and court submissions meet the highest standards of accuracy and compliance with Florida family law procedures.
Known for her empathetic and client-centered approach, Joely understands the emotional complexities involved in family law cases. She works closely with clients to ensure they feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout every stage of the legal process. Her exceptional communication skills and compassionate guidance help reduce stress and build trust with clients during difficult times.
In addition to her work at the firm, Joely is deeply committed to serving her community. She volunteers as a Guardian ad Litem for Palm Beach County, where she advocates on behalf of children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment, ensuring their voices are heard in the legal system.
A resident of West Palm Beach, Florida, Joely enjoys exploring new cultures and has traveled to over eight countries. Her global perspective and strong sense of compassion continue to shape her dedicated advocacy for families and children throughout Florida.
Joely's empathetic and client-focused approach sets her apart. She understands that family law matters can be emotionally challenging, and she strives to provide compassionate guidance and support to clients throughout the legal process. Her exceptional communication skills enable her to build strong relationships with clients, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and informed every step of the way.
Joely lives in West Palm Beach, Florida and in her free time she loves to travel and has visited over 8 countries. Additionally, she is a volunteer Guardian ad litem for Palm Beach County where she advocates on behalf of children that have been abandoned, abused or neglected.
Emily Houck
Emily Houck
Legal Assistant | Client Services Coordinator | Office Operations Specialist
Emily Houck serves as the dedicated Legal Assistant at Vette Law, playing a vital role in both office operations and client support. With a strong passion for organization, attention to detail, and a proactive mindset, Emily helps ensure that the firm’s daily operations run smoothly and efficiently.
In addition to managing essential administrative functions, Emily is often the first point of contact for many of the firm’s family law clients, providing compassionate, professional, and responsive service. Her friendly demeanor and excellent communication skills help clients feel supported and well-informed as they navigate sensitive legal matters such as divorce, child custody, alimony, and marital disputes.
Known for her ability to adapt quickly to evolving challenges, Emily excels at problem-solving and proactively managing day-to-day firm operations, scheduling, document coordination, and client communications. Her commitment to excellence helps maintain a positive, efficient environment that benefits both the legal team and the firm’s clients.
A proud South Florida native, Emily is passionate about helping families through difficult times, ensuring that every client who contacts Vette Law receives personalized attention and care. Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with her beloved English Bulldog, Bronx.
Emily is a valued member of the Vette Law team and a trusted resource for both clients and staff. She can be reached directly at 561-531-9132 or by email at emily@vettelaw.com.
Sarah Cloutier
Sarah is a dedicated Director at Vette Law, specializing in billing and account management, as well as client onboarding. With a focus on operational efficiency, Sarah ensures that the firm runs smoothly and provides exceptional service to clients. Her expertise in financial processes and client relations enhances the overall experience for those navigating family law matters. Committed to fostering a supportive environment, Sarah is dedicated to both the team and the clients they serve. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys being active and spending time with her husband and 4 kids.
Roseanna Skidmore
Roseanna is a dedicated Legal Assistant with a strong background in providing comprehensive support to attorneys and legal teams. With expertise in managing legal documentation, conducting in-depth research, and organizing case files, Roseanna ensures the efficient operation of the law office. Known for exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of legal procedures and terminology, Roseanna is committed to contributing to the success of the legal team and delivering high-quality service to clients.
Dana Anderson
Dana Anderson is zealous and passionate paralegal with 10 years of experience supporting and managing the caseloads of multiple attorneys. She is skilled at adeptly navigating the management of client deadlines, communication among all parties, drafting of pleadings and discovery and preparing cases from trial. Dana takes great pride in her work, always trying to get a step ahead for her clients and attorneys to move cases forward.
Dana lives in the Tampa Bay area and in her free time, she is an avid reader and loves to get drawn into a romance or fiction novel. She also loves the beach and vacationing on cruises throughout the Caribbean.
Machen Stanley
Machen Stanley is our Discovery Paralegal. She works closely with our clients and attorneys to ensure court required documents are provided in a timely manner and compliance is met.
With over twelve years of family law experience, and having gone through a divorce herself, Machen understands how stressful and emotionally difficult the process can be and approaches every case with compassion and a willingness to help make the process less stressful for our clients.