September 2025 Edition
Legal News & Updates
September 2025 Edition
Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is dedicated to providing regular updates to our valued clients and the community regarding legal matters that may influence their businesses and families. We are pleased to present articles and news recently published for your reference and awareness.
Divorce, Marital & Family Law
Divorce comes with many financial considerations, and attorney’s fees are often near the top of the list. In Florida, courts may require one spouse to contribute to the other’s legal fees but it’s not automatic. Fort Myers Divorce Attorney Iman Zekri explains how Florida courts evaluate fee requests and what conduct or financial factors courts consider when awarding or denying fees. Click here to read more.
Employment Law
With high-profile terminations making headlines, many Florida employers are asking what rights they have when employees make controversial public statements. In this timely blog post, employment law attorney Scott Atwood breaks down the legal distinction between free speech and First Amendment rights and what it means for private businesses in Florida. Click here to read more.
We appreciate Evan Williams, writer for Gulfshore Business Magazine, for reaching out to Scott as a source their related article, “Debate over workplace speech grows after Charlie Kirk’s death.”
Estate & Trust Planning
Florida residents face specific legal considerations as they age. From long-term care and Medicaid eligibility to avoiding guardianship and protecting against exploitation, elder law offers tools to help families plan with clarity.
In this article, Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney Lisa Goddy answers the most common questions she receives, including when to start planning, how to protect assets, and what legal documents help avoid court involvement. The Q&A format offers practical guidance rooted in Florida law. Click here to read more.
Real Estate
Beginning October 1, 2025, Florida property owners face expanded flood disclosure requirements under Senate Bill 948. Landlords, condo developers, and mobile home park owners must now provide detailed flood history and insurance claim disclosures before lease or sale agreements are signed.
In this article, Fort Myers Real Estate Attorney Alessandro Secino breaks down what’s required, who it affects, and how to stay in compliance. Property owners and managers should review their current forms and agreements to avoid disputes and meet the new legal standards. Click here to read more.
In the News
Henderson Franklin’s Employment Law Group Chair Scott Atwood addressed members and guests of the Southwest Florida Air Conditioning Contractors Association at their monthly meeting in Estero. His presentation, “Managing Overtime: Effective Email and Text Strategies for Employee Management,” focused on practical ways employers can improve compliance with wage and hour laws while navigating digital communication in the workplace. Click here to read the full press release.
As members of the local community, we extend a warm invitation to join us at upcoming events, including:
• October 9, Lee County Bar Association Foundation Wine Tasting at FineMark National Bank & Trust
• October 18, American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point
• October 24, Industry Appreciation Awards at Caloosa Sound Convention Center
• October 25, Lee County Bar Association’s Bench Bar Gala at The Veranda
• October 27, Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation Southwest Florida Golf Outing at The Plantation Golf & Country Club
• November 7, Gift of Adoption Florida Chapter’s Gambling for the Gift Gala at Higgins Hall in Tampa
Fort Myers | Bonita Springs | Naples
Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.
1715 Monroe Street
Fort Myers, FL 33901
www.henlaw.com
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