Sara-Jean Palmer, Appellate Attorney in Lakeland, Florida

Sara-Jean concentrates on appellate, criminal defense, and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Sara-Jean handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

  View other Appellate attorneys

• Criminal Defense

  View other Criminal Defense attorneys

• Family Law

  View other Family Law attorneys

Sara-Jean's primary office is at 1102 S Florida Ave Ste 111, Lakeland, FL, 33803-1308. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new appellate attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Sara-Jean usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Sara-Jean discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in appellate practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Sara-Jean for a appellate case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Sara-Jean walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Sara-Jean offer a free consultation?

  Sara-Jean charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Sara-Jean's office. Some appellate attorneys offer free consults — check Sara-Jean's current terms during booking.

• How long do appellate cases in Florida typically take?

  Simple appellate matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Sara-Jean gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Sara-Jean take my case if I'm outside Lakeland?

  Sara-Jean is licensed in Florida. Matters governed by Florida law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Sara-Jean will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Sara-Jean?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Sara-Jean will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Sara-Jean accepting new appellate clients right now?

  Sara-Jean's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.