Attorney Bio
Lauren Adkins, Esq. is a Litigation Attorney in the Tampa, FL office of Melone Hatley, P.C., where she brings over two decades of experience representing clients in a wide range of family law matters. Lauren chose family law because it allows her to make a meaningful impact in the lives of families navigating some of life’s most difficult circumstances. Lauren’s dedication to her clients makes her an excellent choice for those seeking a skilled divorce lawyer and family law attorney in Tampa, FL.
Lauren has represented clients in hundreds of family law matters from inception to resolution, including those involving high-conflict custody disputes, divorce, and paternity matters. Her approach to family law is rooted in empathy, legal strategy, and clear communication, and she finds great fulfillment in guiding, advising, and supporting her clients.
Prior to joining the firm, Lauren spent years in private practice, where she represented clients in both family law and criminal defense matters. She served as a senior attorney and regional litigation manager for a large, national family law firm, overseeing attorneys across the state and guiding clients through high-stakes family law disputes. Her earlier work included leading litigation efforts at a Florida law firm where she managed complex litigation matters. Her legal career began in public service as an Assistant State Attorney in Florida’s Sixth Judicial Circuit, where she gained firsthand trial experience in both misdemeanor and felony court, where she also served as the felony division’s child abuse attorney.
While in law school, Lauren distinguished herself through her participation in several advocacy programs, serving as Co-Captain of the National Trial Team, President of the Student Trial Bar, and a member of both Moot Court and Phi Delta Phi. She now spends her non-legal hours volunteering at her children’s schools and extracurricular activities. She is also a dedicated fitness enthusiast and an avid NHL and NFL fan. (Go Bolts! Go Giants!)
In the News
Recent Blog Posts
In recognition of Black History Month and the ongoing evolution of marriage equality, we examine how Loving v. Virginia reshaped the constitutional understanding of marriage in…
Understanding Florida’s Child Relocation Laws After Divorce and How the 50-Mile Rule Impacts Parenting Plans After a divorce, life rarely remains static. New jobs, family support,…
Understanding the Legal Rights, Responsibilities, and Risks That Begin the Moment You Say “I Do” When most people think about getting married, they think about love,…
Helpful Links
- Spousal Support in Virginia Guide
- Blog
- Probate: The What, When, Where, Why and How of Probate
- About Us
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Separation and Divorce in VA
- Do I Have To Pay Spousal Support?
- Contact Us
- Estate Planning Documents for Adults with Special Needs
- Estate Planning in Second Marriages Explained
- Should You Make A Trust For Your Kids?
- Talking to Your Children About Divorce
- Pet Trusts…What Happens to Fido When I’m Gone?
- Property Settlement and Marital Separation Agreement
- Melone Hatley is Proud to Sponsor the 2015 Wounded Warrior Golf Classic
- Emergency Child Custody in Virginia
- Case Study: How Does a Revocable Living Trust Work?
- The Importance of Advance Medical Directives
- How Residency Requirements Affect Divorce in Virginia
- Third Party Custody and the Parental Presumption
- Estate Planning Myths in Virginia & How To Avoid Mistakes
- Child Support and Imputation of Income
- What You Should Know About Child Visitation Laws in Virginia
- Why To Revise Your Estate Plan After Divorce
- Home
- How Divorce is Different for the Special Needs Child
- How Often Should I Review My Will, Trust, and Estate Plan?
- Special Needs Children Financial Planning Through ABLE Act
- DIY Estate Planning…Is it Worth the Time and Trouble?
- Do I Need a Separation Agreement in Virginia?
- What is the Value of a Special Needs Trust?





































