Andrew Reder – Emerging Leaders of Tampa Bay

Andrew Reder Emerging Leaders of Tampa BayWe’re proud that the attorneys and staff of Sessums Black, P.A. are involved in numerous community organizations. Kudos to attorney Andrew D. Reder for his membership in Emerging Leaders of Tampa Bay, a young-professional leadership program of the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce. Emerging Leaders of Tampa Bay works to impact the business community across the region by providing professional development, networking and community outreach opportunities for young professionals, as well as impacting public policy affecting the Tampa Bay business community. The program’s mission is to support and cultivate emerging leaders by providing access to business resources, educational opportunities and community partnerships in an effort to enhance the Greater Tampa Area.

Jennifer Ficarrotta Recognized as Martindale-Hubbell 2019 AV Preeminent® Attorney

Jennifer A. FicarrottaCongratulations to Sessums Black, P.A. partner Jennifer A. Ficarrotta, who has been recognized for 2019 by Martindale-Hubbell as an AV Preeminent® attorney—the highest possible rating—for the eighth consecutive year. AV Preeminent® signifies that a large number of the lawyer’s peers rank him or her at the highest level of professional excellence for legal knowledge, communication skills and ethical standards.

SBCF Donates to Meals on Wheels of Tampa

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Best Lawyers in Florida: Tampa Edition 2019 Includes Sikorske, Caballero

Best Lawyers Tampa 2019Congratulations to Sessums Black, P.A. partners Caroline Black Sikorske and Alex Caballero, who are included in Best Lawyers in Florida: Tampa Edition 2019, based on nomination and peer review by other Tampa Bay-area lawyers on their professional abilities and quality of legal services. Recognition in Best Lawyers is regarded by clients and legal professionals as a significant honor conferred on a lawyer by his or her peers.

Caroline and Alex are board-certified specialists in Marital and Family Law by The Florida Bar and are Martindale Hubbell AV® Preeminent peer review rated. Both served as Hillsborough County Assistant State Attorneys before devoting their practices exclusively to marital and family law.

Sarah Kay Article Published by Florida Bar ADR Section

Sarah Kay Article Published by Florida Bar ADR SectionThe Alternative Dispute Resolution Section of The Florida Bar’s new magazine, The Common Ground, features an article by Sessums Black, P.A. attorney Sarah E. Kay. “Making Family Law Mediation Family-Friendly” provides four questions that mediators should answer to determine if they are adequately addressing common impediments to family law mediation. Sarah is a Certified Family Law Mediator through The Florida Supreme Court and member of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. Read the full article at this link.

Alex Caballero Matrimonial Law Arbitrator Certification

Alexander Caballero Matrimonial Law Artibrator Certification

Sessums Black, P.A. partner Alexander Caballero is one of only 20 Florida attorneys who has earned Matrimonial Law Arbitrator Certification by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Academy mediation and arbitration training is limited to Certified Fellows of the AAML. Fellows generally are recognized by judges and other attorneys as preeminent family law practitioners with high levels of knowledge, skill and integrity with reputations for professionalism, competence and integrity. Learn more about AAML certification at this link.

SBCF Hosts Donation Drive for Meals on Wheels

How many boxes will you help us fill? Sessums Black, P.A.is hosting its annual holiday donation drive to benefit Meals On Wheels of Tampa. Founding partner Stephen Sessums is a long-time Meals on Wheels volunteer and SBCF is proud to support this worthy organization. We are accepting donations between now and Dec. 3 to help show love for our community’s seniors and homebound. Please mail or drop off your donations during our normal business hours Monday – Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Meals on Wheels will pack all donated items into holiday gift bags and deliver them on Saturday, Dec. 15 to more than 800 of Tampa’s homebound.

Meals on Wheels Wish List: Backscratchers, blankets, decks of cards, kitchen and bath towels, pot holders, individually packaged snacks, magnifying glasses, plug-in night lights, notepads, pens/pencils, puzzle/game books, socks and personal hygiene items.

Since 1975, Meals on Wheels of Tampa has been committed to nourishing and enriching the independent lives of Tampa’s senior and homebound neighbors by providing hot, nutritious meals delivered daily by volunteers.

Caroline Black Sikorske Attends IACP Forum

IACP Conference Group PhotoSessums Black, P.A. Managing Partner Caroline Black Sikorske recently attended the 19th Annual Networking and Educational Forum of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP). More than 450 lawyers, mental health professionals, financial professionals and other collaborative practitioners from several countries attended the forum Oct. 25-28 in Seattle. Caroline has been an IACP member since 2007. She attended the conference as Co-chair of the Tampa Bay Academy of Collaborative Professionals, along with other members of the local TBACP, as part of their commitment to the excellence in the practice of collaborative law. Caroline and the attorneys at SBCF have extensive experience in collaborative divorce, a method of alternative dispute resolution in family law that helps clients reach settlements quickly and quietly instead of going to court. Learn more about collaborative law at this link.

Sarah Kay Travels With Florida Bar Board Certification Flag

Sarah Kay With Board Certification FlagThe Florida Bar board certification program encourages its certified lawyers to take photos with the board certification flag when they travel. Sessums Black, P.A. attorney Sarah E. Kay is holding the flag in this photo taken at Puerta Maya in Cozumel, Mexico, on a recent cruise with her family. Sarah and SBCF partners Caroline Black Sikorske, Alexander Caballero and Jennifer Ficarrotta are board certified by The Florida Bar in Marital & Family Law—a distinction earned by only 279 Florida Bar members. Learn more about Florida Bar board certification at this link.

SBCF Is Outback Bowl Sponsor

Caroline Black Sikorske at Outback Bowl EventSessums Black, P.A. managing partner Caroline Black Sikorske and her husband, Jeff Sikorske, recently attended the Outback Bowl’s Happy Hour Huddle fall kick-off event at Splitsville. SBCF is proud to be an Outback Bowl sponsor.

Lorri Rowell Celebrates Work Anniversary

Lorri L. Rowell Work AnniversaryCongratulations and thank you to Paralegal Lorri L. Rowell, who on Oct. 14 celebrated five years of superior service with Sessums Black, P.A. Lorri joined the firm in 2013, bringing with her more than two decades of paralegal experience. Happy anniversary, Lorri!

Caroline Black Sikorske and Family Attend Veterans Treatment Court Event

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Lenore Hood Celebrates Work Anniversary

Lenore Hood Work AnniversaryCongratulations to Lenore Hood, who this week is celebrating two years of excellent service as the Word Processor at Sessums Black, P.A. Lenore joined the SBCF family in 2016 with more than six years of experience as a legal secretary at the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s office. Happy anniversary, Lenore!

Florida Bar Certification Program Congratulates Sarah Kay

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SBCF Supports Peanut Butter Drive

Peanut Butter DrivePlease help our firm support Eric Piburn’s Peanut Butter Drive to help fight childhood hunger! Eric is on a mission to raise 2,000 cases of peanut butter to donate to our hungry neighbors in Tampa Bay. Feeding Tampa Bay statistics say Florida is fourth in the nation for family hunger and many at-risk students won’t eat at all between lunch on Friday and breakfast Monday morning. We can make a difference. Drop off or mail peanut butter to our office by Sept. 27—and we’ll deliver the donations to Feeding Tampa Bay. Thank you for your support of this important community project.

Sessums Black P.A.
307 S. Magnolia Avenue (please use the back door)
Tampa, FL 33606
(813) 251-9200

Attorney Sterling Lovelady Presents on Ethics and Evidence

Sterling LoveladySessums Black, P.A. attorney Sterling Lovelady recently presented on ethics and evidence to The Stann Givens Family Law American Inn of Court of Tampa. The focus was on social media in family law cases. Sterling earned his Bachelors of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Florida State University, where he played as an offensive lineman for Florida State Seminoles football. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Stetson University College of Law, and received the Victor O. Wehle Award at graduation for excellence in trial advocacy. Sterling is an active member of The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division and Family Law Section and devotes 100 percent of his practice to marital and family law.

Paralegal Michelle Tawzer Celebrates Work Anniversary

Paralegal Michelle TawzerCongratulations to certified paralegal Michele C. Tawzer, who on Sept. 13, 2018, celebrated 14 years of outstanding service with Sessums Black, P.A. Michele joined the SBCF family in 2004, bringing with her more than a decade of paralegal experience in marital and family law. Michele is a Certified Paralegal through the National Association of Legal Assistants and a Florida Registered Paralegal through The Florida Bar. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of South Florida in 1999. She is an active member of the Tampa Bay Paralegal Association, Inc. whose mission includes setting the standard of excellence for the paralegal profession through its work on regulations, ethics and education. Michelle has more than 20 years of family law litigation experience and devotes 100 percent of her practice to the area of marital and family law.

Attorney Sarah Kay Presents HAWL Award

Attorney Sarah Kay Presents AwardSessums Black attorney Sarah E. Kay, Immediate Past President of the Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers, on Sept. 12 presented the 2018 Thomas E. Baynes Friend of HAWL award to The Hon. Claudia Rickert Isom in recognition of Judge Isom’s commitment to HAWL and its purpose, goals and mission. Pictured with Sarah are HAWL Past President Katherine Earle Yanes, 2015 Friend of HAWL award recipient Deborah Larned Werner and Judge Isom.

Paralegal Frank Steinbeck Jr. Celebrates Work Anniversary

Frank J. Steinbeck, Jr.Paralegal Frank Steinbeck, Jr. on August 21, 2018, celebrated six years of outstanding service with Sessums Black, P.A. Frank joined the SBCF family in 2012, with more than five years of family law paralegal experience. Frank earned an Associate of Arts degree from Pasco-Hernando State College in 2012 and a Bachelor of Science degree in Legal Studies through South University, an ABA-Approved Paralegal Education Program, in 2014. He is a Florida Registered Paralegal through The Florida Bar.

Caroline Black Sikorske In Best Lawyers in America© 2019

Congratulations to Sessums Black P.A. Shareholder and Managing Partner Caroline Black Sikorske, who has been selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2019 in the field of family law—her 13th consecutive year to be included. Caroline is board certified by The Florida Bar in Marital and Family Law, is a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and is a member of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers, a select group of 100 top family lawyers from across the United States practicing sophisticated and complex family law and matrimonial matters.

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske Becomes CEO Council of Tampa Bay Member

Sessums Black P.A. Shareholder and Managing Partner Caroline Black Sikorske has been approved for membership in the CEO Council of Tampa Bay, the bay area’s premier organization of business leaders. The council provides opportunities for members to build relationships, generate ideas and formulate solutions. At the core is the shared desire for members to grow their businesses and positively impact the greater Tampa Bay community. Caroline is board certified in Marital and Family Law by The Florida Bar and is a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Learn more about Caroline Black Sikorske by reading her online resume.

SBCF Colleagues Celebrate Work Anniversaries

August 7, 2018 is the work anniversary for two Sessums Black, P.A. colleagues. Attorney Sarah E. Kay celebrates 12 years of outstanding service with the firm.  Sarah joined the firm in 2006 as a receptionist and served in several other positions at the firm while attending law school.  She assumed her position as an attorney in 2010 and has since become a Board Certified Specialist in Marital and Family Law through The Florida Bar and a Certified Family Law Mediator through The Florida Supreme Court. Attorney Sterling R. Lovelady is celebrating one year of top-quality service with the firm.  Sterling first worked at the firm as an intern in 2016 and assumed his full-time position as an attorney in 2017. Please join us in wishing Sarah and Sterling happy work anniversaries!

Small Office makes BIG HAUL for the Children of St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital

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Attorney Jennifer Ficarrotta Anniversary

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Attorney Alex Caballero Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator

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2018 St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation Christmas In July Toy Drive

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Attorney Alex Caballero Certified as Matrimonial Law Arbitrator

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Congratulations to Katie Tawzer on her high school graduation!

The Sessums Black family congratulates Katie Tawzer, the daughter of Certified Paralegal Michele Tawzer on her high school graduation and wishes Katie the very best as she begins her studies at Florida State University this summer.  Way to go, Katie!

Administrative Assistant Nelva Aleman Anniversary

On June 20, 2018, Administrative Assistant Nelva Aleman celebrated 20 years of outstanding service at Sessums Black.  Happy anniversary, Nelva!

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske Named Top 10 Florida Attorney by Super Lawyers

Sessums Black is thrilled to announce that Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske was named a Top 10 Florida Attorney by the Super Lawyers publication. Congratulations, Caroline!

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Receives 2018 Chair’s Award of Extraordinary Service

On June 13, 2018, outgoing Family Law Section Chair Nicole Goetz awarded Attorney Sarah E. Kay the Chair’s Award of Extraordinary Service.  The inscription reads “In recognition of your outstanding service, unwavering dedication and continued commitment to the section.”  Congratulations, Sarah!

  

 

SBCF Attorneys Recognized as 2018 SuperLawyers

Sessums Black is thrilled to announce that four of its attorneys have not only earned a 2018 SuperLawyers designation but also are designated as “Top Rated Lawyers”!  This is the 9th consecutive year as a SuperLawyer for Attorneys Caroline Black Sikorske and Alex Caballero, the 7th consecutive year as a SuperLawyer or Rising Star for Attorney Jennifer A. Ficarrotta, and the 5th consecutive year as a Rising Star for Attorney Sarah E. Kay.  Congratulations to Caroline, Alex, Jennifer, and Sarah!

Attorney Alex Caballero Continues Term as Director of the Hillsborough County Bar Association

On June 7, 2018, Attorney Alex Caballero was sworn in to continue his term as a Director of the Hillsborough County Bar Association.  The HCBA is one of the largest voluntary bar associations in Florida with a membership close to 4,000 attorneys, judges and legal professionals.  Congratulations, Alex!

 

Attorney Alex Caballero Anniversary

On June 7, 2018, Attorney Alex Caballero celebrated 19 years of outstanding service with Sessums Black.  Alex is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law, is a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, and is rated AV by Martindale Hubbell.  Happy anniversary, Alex!

Attorney Andrew D. Reder Expecting Second Child

The Sessums Black family is thrilled to announce that Attorney Andrew D. Reder and his wife are expecting the birth of their second child in mid-November 2018.  Congratulations Andrew & Jessica!

Attorney Sarah Kay Recognized for 2017 Pro Bono Service

Attorney Sarah E. Kay was recently recognized by the Florida Supreme Court for her pro bono legal services in 2017.  Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Labarga wrote Sarah on behalf of the Court saying “We thank you for giving freely and unselfishly of your time and legal talent to represent the poor, the powerless, the defenseless, and the oppressed among us.  Your work helps to fulfill the promise of equal justice to all.”  Click on the link below to read the letter to Sarah from Justice Labarga.  Congratulations, Sarah!

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SBCF Sponsors Outback Bowl

Sessums Black PA is proud to sponsor the Outback Bowl.  Over the years, the Bowl has contributed over $143 million to education, while creating an economic impact of over $1 billion to the Tampa Bay Area.

Click on the images below to see the sponsorship sign from the 2018 Pilot Bank Outback Bowl Summer Splash at the Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel which occurred the weekend of June 1, 2018 and a picture of Attorney Sterling Lovelady with his wife at the Summer Splash event.

  

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske speaker at AAML Institute

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske spoke on Pyscho-Social Issues Impacting Co-parenting and Case Management with Dr Deborah Day and Dr Jan Faust at the AAML Institute on Friday May 4, 2018 in Orlando. Caroline presented tips and techniques on how to manage clients with psychological or mental health issues that impair the attorney’s ability to communicate with and effectively advocate for their clients.  Caroline is a Fellow in the AAML and past president of the Florida Chapter.

Attorney Jennifer Ficarrotta appointed to continue serving on Certification Committee

Sessums Black is pleased to announce that Attorney Jennifer Ficarrotta has been appointed to continue serving on The Florida Bar Marital and Family Law Certification Committee in the 2018-2019 bar cycle.  The Committee is responsible for reviewing applications to determine if applicants meet the requirement to become a Board Certified Attorney in Marital and Family Law and in writing and grading the examinations applicants are required to pass in order to become board certified.  The Committee consists of 9 members and meetings are held throughout the State of Florida. SBCF is proud of Jennifer’s dedication to promoting excellence in the legal profession.

 

 

Attorney Alex Caballero to Complete Term on Board Certification Committee

In June 2018, Attorney Alex Caballero will conclude his six year term on the Florida Bar Marital and Family Law Certification Committee, including a year as Chair.  The Committee is responsible for reviewing applications to determine if applicants meet the requirement to become a Board Certified Attorney in Marital and Family Law and in writing and grading the examinations applicants are required to pass in order to become board certified.  The Committee consists of 9 members and meetings are held throughout the State of Florida.  Congratulations, Alex!

Attorney Alex Caballero Appointed to The Florida Bar Professional Ethics Committee

On April 18, 2018, Florida Bar President Michelle R. Suskauer appointed Attorney Alex Caballero to the Professional Ethics Committee beginning July 1, 2018. The Professional Ethics committee is charged with the duty of answering ethics inquiries from members of the Bar concerning the inquirer’s own proposed conduct. The committee reviews informal advisory opinions issued by Florida Bar ethics department attorneys. Additionally, the committee publishes formal advisory opinions to guide bar members in interpreting and applying the ethics rules. A formal opinion is published in accordance with Board of Governors approved procedures as a proposed advisory opinion to which Bar members may submit comments.  Congratulations, Alex!

Caroline Black Sikorske Voted #1 Family Law Attorney by Tampa Magazine

Caroline Black Sikorske was voted #1 Family Law Attorney by Tampa Magazine! Voted #1 by her peers, Caroline Black Sikorske was selected to achieve this high honor. We are proud of Caroline and her excellent skills in representing her clients.

Sessums Black Sponsors Annual Easter Seals Fundraiser

Sessums Black was proud to be a Silver Sponsor for the annual Easter Seals “A Pair to Remember” fundraiser and charity auction on Friday, March 23, 2018. Easter Seals provides exceptional services, education and outreach and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our community. SBCF is honored to support this valuable community organization.

 

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske Presenting at AAML 40th Annual Institute

Caroline Black Sikorske is honored to be selected to present at the AAML 40th Annual Institute in Orlando, FL on May 4, 2018. Caroline will be speaking on “Psycho-Social Issues as They Impact Co-Parenting and Attorney Case Management.” Her co-presenters include two nationally recognized experts in the field of Psychology, Dr. Debra Day, Psy.D., and Dr. Jan Faust, Ph.D.

Caroline Black Sikorske at the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s Competitive Edge Series

Caroline Black Sikorske participated as a panelist in the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s Competitive Edge Series. The March edition of the Series featured leaders of the 2017 Small Business of the Year winners. The panelists shared experiences regarding their businesses, challenges, keys to success and their insight regarding the Small Business of the Year application and evaluation process. Caroline shared that SBCF’s biggest asset is its people, a dedicated group of caring professionals who represent the Firm’s core values.

SBCF Big Kahuna Sponsor of HCBA Judicial Pig Roast and 5k Pro Bono River Run

Sessums Black is proud to be a Big Kahuna sponsor for the Hillsborough County Bar Association’s 15th Annual Judicial Pig Roast and 10th Annual 5k Pro Bono River Run to be held on March 3, 2018.  This is a family-friendly event benefiting Bay Area Legal Services and encouraging attorney pledges of pro bono legal services.  Sessums Black is proud to sponsor the Hillsborough County Bar Association and its efforts to enhance the local community.

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Panel Speaker for Family Law Board Certification Exam Tips & Nibbles presentation

On January 24, 2018, Attorney Sarah E. Kay was a panel speaker for the Marital & Family Law Board Certification Exam Tips & Nibbles presentation which was part of the annual Family Law Section and AAML Certification Review Course in Orlando.  Sarah became Board Certified in Marital & Family Law by The Florida Bar on June 1, 2017.  Congratulations, Sarah!

 

Pirate Invasion at SBCF

Batten down the hatches, Mateys! Sessums Black PA was invaded by pirates from YMKG on January 23, 2018!

Receptionist Karina Batista Anniversary

On January 22, 2018, Receptionist Karina Batista celebrated 11 years of excellent service at Sessums Black.  Congratulations, Karina!

Happy Holidays from SBCF

Sessums Black will be closed for the holidays beginning 5:00 PM on December 21, 2017 and will re-open at 8:30 AM on January 2, 2018. We wish everyone a safe and joy-filled holiday season!

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Panelist Speaker on the Mechanics of Board Certification

On November 30, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay was a panel speaker during a Florida Bar Family Law Section CLE titled “The Mechanics of Board Certification”.  Sarah earned her Board Certification in Marital and Family Law in 2017.  Congratulations, Sarah!

Attorneys Caroline Black Sikorske, Alex Caballero, Jennifer Ficarrotta, and Sarah E. Kay 2017 Florida Trend Legal Elite

Sessums Black are pleased to announce that Attorneys Caroline Black Sikorske, Alex Caballero, Jennifer Ficarrotta, and Sarah E. Kay were all listed in the 2017 edition of the Florida Trend Legal Elite for Marital and Family Law.  Congratulations!

Word Processor Mary Dougherty Anniversary

On November 17, 2017, Word Processor Mary Dougherty celebrated 31 years of top quality service with Sessums Black. Congratulations, Mary!

Scheduling Assistant Camille Hood Joins SBCF

Sessums Black is excited to welcome Camille Hood to the SBCF family as our new Scheduling Assistant. Camille joined the firm on November 13, 2017 bringing with her over six years of legal scheduling and administrative support experience. Welcome, Camille!

Caroline Black Sikorske, Esq. Presenter at the AAML National Meeting on Unique Valuation Issues

On November 10, 2017, Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske co-presented on Unique Valuation Issues at the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyerse (AAML) National Meeting in Chicago, IL.  Click on the links below to see pictures.  Congratulations, Caroline!

  

21st Annual HCBA Bench Bar Conference & Judicial Reception

Sessums Black was a proud sponsor of the 12st Annual Hillsborough County Bar Association Bench-Bar Conference and Judicial Reception on October 25, 2017 titled “Perception is Reality: Identifying the Hidden Dangers of Bias in our Profession.” The attorneys of SBCF prioritize participating in and supporting events that promote excellence within the legal profession. Click on the links below to see pictures from the event.

 

 

 

Anniversary of Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske

On November 1, 2017, Managing Partner Caroline Black Sikorske celebrated 28 years of outstanding service with Sessums Black.  Congratulations, Caroline!

SBCF Wins the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce 2017 Small Business of the Year Award for 5-20 Employees

With great pride and excitement, Sessums Black announces that it has been named the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce 2017 Small Business of the Year Award in the 5-20 Employees Category.

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Paralegal Lorri L. Rowell Anniversary

On October 14, 2017, Paralegal Lorri L. Rowell will celebrate four years of top-quality service at Sessums Black.  Lorri joined SBCF with over twenty years of experience in a wide range of legal fields with her most recent focus being family law.  Congratulations, Lorri!

Word Processor Lenore Hood Anniversary

On October 3, 2017, Word Processor Lenore Hood celebrated one year of top quality service with Sessums Black!  Lenore was a legal secretary with the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office for six years prior to joining SBCF.  Congratulations, Lenore!

Sterling Lovelady Passes Florida Bar Exam

Sessums Black is thrilled to announce that Paralegal Sterling R. Lovelady passed the Florida Bar Exam!  He will join the firm as an attorney once he is sworn in.  Congratulations, Sterling!

Sessums Black supports Tampa Police Department and its Breast Cancer Awareness campaign

Sessums Black supports Tampa Police Department and its Breast Cancer Awareness campaign.  We encourage you to share your selfie using #TPDPink!

Certified Paralegal Michele C. Tawzer Anniversary

On September 13, 2017, Certified Paralegal Michele C. Tawzer celebrated 13 years of outstanding service with Sessums Black.  Congratulations, Michele!

SBCF Re-Opened September 12, 2017

Sessums Black is happy to report the firm and its employees fared Hurricane Irma well.  All of our employees are safe.  The Office reopened at 8:30 AM on Tuesday, September 12, 2017.  Our hearts and prayers are with all who continue to feel the effects of the storm.

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Presentation on Microsoft Office for the Legal Industry

On August 29, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay presented at a continuing legal education seminar titled “Unleashing the Power of Microsoft and Adobe for Lawyers.”  Sarah spoke on the following topics:  MS Word: Legal Document Drafting and User Tips; MS Outlook: Compliant Client Communications and Scheduling; The Many Uses of Excel in Legal Practice; and MS PowerPoint for Courtroom and Client Presentations.  The attorneys of Sessums Black leverage technology to provide the highest quality legal representation for their clients.

Paralegal Frank Steinbeck, Jr. Anniversary

On August 21, 2017, Paralegal Frank Steinbeck, Jr. celebrated five years of outstanding service with Sessums Black.  Congratulations, Frank!

 

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Presentation on the New Family Law Rules

On August 17, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay gave a presentation titled The New Family Law Rules Explained to the St. Petersburg Bar Association Family Law Section which discussed the new family law stand-alone rules, new collaborative law rules, and possible future changes to family law rules and laws.. Congratulations, Sarah!

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Anniversary

On August 7, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay celebrated 11 years of outstanding service with Sessums Black.  Sarah joined the firm in 2006 as a receptionist and served in several positions thereafter while attending law school.  In 2010, Sarah assumed her current position as attorney and has been providing top-quality marital and family law representation and counseling ever since.  Congratulations, Sarah!

 

Attorney Jennifer Ficarrotta Anniversary

On July 20, 2017, Attorney Jennifer Ficarrotta celebrated six years of top-quality service at Sessums Black.  Jennifer joined the firm in 2011 bringing with her almost a decade of experience in family law.  Congratulations, Jennifer!

Attorney Alex Caballero Selected to Chair the Judicial Nominating Commission for the 13th Judicial Circuit

Commencing August 1, 2017, Attorney Alex Caballero has been selected to Chair the Judicial Nomination Commission for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, in and for Hillsborough County, Florida. Alex has continuously served as a member of the Commission since August 2012. Alex is a former member and current Emeritus Member of the Florida Board of Bar Examiners, current member and Past Chair of the Florida Bar Marital and Family Law Board Certification Committee, and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Hillsborough County Bar Association. Alex is a Shareholder with Sessums Black practicing exclusively in marital and family law. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) and is Board Certified by the Florida Bar in marital and family law. Congratulations, Alex!

Nelva Aleman, Administrative Assistant Celebrates 19 Years!

On June 20, 2017, Administrative Assistant Nelva Aleman celebrated 19 years of top-quality service at Sessums Black.  Congratulations Nelva!

 

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Receives Above & Beyond Award from Family Law Section

On June 21, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay received the Above & Beyond Award from The Family Law Section of the Florida Bar.  The award reads “For exceeding all expectations with your tireless dedication and hard work during your service to the Family Law Section.  Congratulations, Sarah!

 

Attorney Alex Caballero Anniversary

On June 7, 2017, Attorney Alex Caballero celebrated 18 years of outstanding service at Sessums Black. Congratulations, Alex!

Sessums Black named Semi-Finalist for 2017 Small Business of the Year Award

Sessums Black is honored to have been selected as a semi-finalist for the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Small Business of the Year Award.  The Chamber is committed to supporting small business in our community.  Beyond the SBOY Award, which reflects a significant achievement, the selection process also provides a growth opportunity as organizations take a critical look at their business.

Video Available of AAML Facebook Live video on Alimony with Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske as Co-Presenter

Did you miss the May 25, 2017 AAML Facebook Live presentation on Alimony with Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske as a co-presenter?  Not to worry!  A video of the presentation is still available for viewing.  Click on the link below to watch.  The attorneys of Sessums Black practice exclusively in the area of marital and family law to offer clients superior, personalized, and high-quality legal services.

Click Here to See the Video

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Board Certified in Marital & Family Law

Sessums Black announces with immense joy and pride that, effective June 1, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay is Board Certified Specialist in Marital and Family Law through The Florida Bar.  Board certification recognizes Sarah’s special knowledge, skills, and proficiency in marital and family law as well as her professionalism and ethics in practice.  Congratulations, Sarah!

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Leadership Appointments in Family Law Section of Florida Bar

On May 26, 2017, the incoming Chair of the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar appointed Attorney Sarah E. Kay to serve in the following leadership positions within the Section: Chair of the Technology Committee, Co-Chair of the Continuing Legal Education Committee, and Member of the Ad Hoc Constitutional Revision, Equitable Distribution, Finance, and Legislation Committees. Congratulations, Sarah!

 

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske Co-Presenting at AAML Seminar on Alimony

On May 25, 2017, Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske will be co-presenting at an American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers seminar on what alimony looks like in the modern era.  You can find out more about the event by clicking here.  The attorneys of Sessums Black practice exclusively in the area of marital and family law to offer clients superior, personalized, and high-quality legal services.

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Earns AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale Hubbell

Sessums Black is pleased to announce that Attorney Sarah E. Kay has been rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell.  The AV® Peer Review Rating serves as an objective indicator that a lawyer has demonstrated ethical standards and professional ability. This honor is a reflection of an attorney’s skill, experience, integrity, and overall professional excellence. By earning an AV Preeminent rating by Martindale Hubbell, an attorney is part of a select group of Tampa area lawyers recognized for their legal abilities and professional ethical standards.  Congratulations, Sarah!

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Sworn In as President of Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers

Sessums Black is thrilled to announce that, on May 17, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay was sworn in as the 2017-2018 President of the Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers.  Congratulations, Sarah!

 

May 17, 2017 SBCF Attorneys at the Swearing In Ceremony of Attorney Sarah E. Kay, Esq. as 2017-2018 HAWL President

Attorneys Steve W. Sessums and Caroline Black Sikorske with HAWL Member Deb Werner, Esq. at HAWL luncheon May 17, 2017

Attorney Sarah E. Kay, Esq. 2017-2018 HAWL President with 2016-2017 HAWL President Caroline Johnson Levine, May 17, 2017

SBCF Welcomes Debi Branson Hensley as New Firm Administrator

On May 15, 2017, Debi Branson Hensley joined the Sessums Black family as the new Firm Administrator.  Debi brings with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise from her thirty-plus years serving in various office leadership, management and administrative capacities in the Tampa legal community.  Welcome, Debi!

Retirement of Firm Administrator Bill Murphy

With both sadness and joy, Sessums Black announces the retirement of its Firm Administrator Bill Murphy effective May 16, 2017. Sessums Black wishes Bill happiness and relaxation as he embarks on his newest adventure. Congratulations, Bill!

Attorneys Caroline Black Sikorske, Alex Caballero, and Jennifer Ficarrotta Florida Super Lawyers in 2017 Publication

Sessums Black is pleased to announce that Attorneys Caroline Black Sikorske, Alex Caballero, and Jennifer Ficarrotta are listed as Florida Super Lawyers in Family Law in the 2017 Super Lawyers publication.  Congratulations Caroline, Alex, and Jennifer!

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Florida Rising Star in Family Law in 2017 Super Lawyers Publication

Sessums Black is pleased to announce that Attorney Sarah E. Kay is listed as a Florida Rising Star in Family Law in the 2017 Super Lawyers publication.  This is the 5th consecutive year that Sarah has earned this designation. Congratulations, Sarah!

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske at the Annual Conference of the Diplomats of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers

Attorney Caroline Black Sikorske attended the Annual Conference of the Diplomats of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers in NYC the weekend of April 27, 2017.   The American College is a select group of the top family law trial lawyers from across the United States. Lawyers in the College are recognized for handling cutting edge issues of local and national importance in the family law arena.

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Tour Leader and Mock Trial Participant at HAWL Take Your Child to Work Day Courthouse Event

On April 27, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay lead a courthouse tour and served as an attorney in a mock trial presentation as a part of the Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers (HAWL) annual Take Your Child to Work Day event.  Sarah will begin her term as President of HAWL on June 1, 2017.  The attorneys of Sessums Black believe that a successful combination must include one’s education, legal practice, trial work, and public service.

Attorney Sarah E. Kay (back row far left) and the 2017 HAWL Take Your Child to Work Day mock trial cast

Attorney Sarah E. Kay recognized for her Pro Bono Work

At the 13th Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee Awards Ceremony on April 20, 2017, Attorney Sarah E. Kay was recognized with other attorneys who donated 100+ hours of pro bono legal service in 2016.   As part of the recognition, Sarah was presented with a gold lapel pin as well as a letter from the Supreme Court of Florida which thanked her for “giving freely and unselfishly of [her] time and legal talent to represent the poor, the powerless, the defenseless, and the oppressed among us.”  In the letter, Justice Labarga commented “Your work helps to fulfill the promise of equal justice for all.” Click on the link below to read the letter.  Congratulations, Sarah!

Read the Letter

Sessums Black listed in Best of Tampa Bay 2017 in the Tampa Bay Tribune and tbt*

Sessums Black is pleased to announce that it is listed in the “Best of Tampa Bay 2017 Profile Series” in the March 31, 2017 edition of the Tampa Bay Times and tbt* newspapers.  Click on the link below to see the profile.  Sessums Black prides itself on providing personal and high quality legal services.

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Firm Administrator Bill Murphy 4th Anniversary

On February 28, 2017, Firm Administrator Bill Murphy celebrated four years of exemplary service at Sessums Black.  Congratulations, Bill!

Bill Murphy

Attorney Jennifer Ficarrotta appointed as Trustee of the Pinellas County Law Library

Sessums Black is pleased to announce that Pinellas County Chief Judge Anthony Rondolino has appointed Attorney Jennifer Ficarrotta for another term on the Board of Trustees of the Pinellas County Law Library.  Congratulations Jennifer!

Paralegal Shannon Morlan 2nd Anniversary

On February 16, 2017, Paralegal Shannon Morlan celebrated two years of outstanding service with Sessums Black!  Congratulations, Shannon!

Receptionist Karina Batista 10th Anniversary

On January 22, 2017, Receptionist Karina Batista celebrated a decade of outstanding service with Sessums Black.  Happy anniversary, Karina!

PACE Center for Girls Contribution

During the Tampa Bay Paralegal Association (TBPA) Luncheon on January 12, 2017, Paralegal Frank Steinbeck won the 50/50 raffle to benefit PACE Center for Girls (PACE).  PACE provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy.  Frank chose to donate his portion back to PACE so they received 100% of the raffle proceeds. Below is a picture of Frank with Dana Steward Martinez Jones, President of the TBPA at the January luncheon.

Paralegal Frank Steinbeck

Attorney Sarah E. Kay included in 2017 Ten Best Florida Family Law Attorneys in Client Satisfaction

Sessums Black is pleased to announce that Attorney Sarah E. Kay is listed as one of the 2017 listing of 10 Best Attorneys Florida Family Law Attorneys in Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys.  Congratulations Sarah!

January 2017 TBPA Luncheon

On January 12, 2017, Paralegal Frank J. Steinbeck , as a regular part of his membership, attended the Tampa Bay Paralegal Association (TBPA) Luncheon which included a continuing education component titled “HIPAA: How does it apply outside of the Medical Institution?”.  The TBPA’s mission includes establishing the standard of excellence in the paralegal profession through its work on issues of regulation, ethics, and education.

Attorney Sarah E. Kay Featured in Executive Council Spotlight

Attorney Sarah E. Kay was featured in Executive Council Spotlight in the January 2017 edition of The Florida Bar Family Law Section’s e-newsletter FAMSEG. Click on the link below to read the Spotlight. Sessums Black believes that a successful combination for an attorney includes public service and contributing to state and federal legislation through leadership in organizations such as the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar.

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SBCF Welcomes Back Founding Partner Stephen W. Sessums!

Sessums Black is pleased to welcome Founding Partner Stephen W. Sessums back to the firm!  Steve’s dedication to excellence is evidenced by the leadership roles he has held in local, state, and national legal organizations and the numerous awards and recognitions those organizations have given him including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers in 2006. Welcome home, Steve!

Stephen W. Sessums

Attorneys Steve Sessums and Caroline Black Sikorske Attend HCBA Past President’s Luncheon

On December 15, 2016, Attorneys Steve Sessums and Caroline Black Sikorske attended the Hillsborough County Bar Association Past Presidents’ Luncheon.  Steve was HCBA president in 1977 and Caroline in 2007.

Anniversary Celebration for Word Processor Mary Dougherty

On December 10, 2016, Sessums Black PA celebrated Word Processor Mary Dougherty’s 30 years of outstanding service with the firm.  Mary will be retiring from full time employment at the end of this year.  Congratulations and thank you, Mary, for all of your countless contributions and your tireless dedication!