Meister Law Group provides dedicated, compassionate legal representation in dependency matters serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. We defend parents during DCF investigations, shelter hearings, and dependency proceedings, working to protect parental rights and preserve family stability. Led by Jennifer Meister, a Fordham Law graduate, former DCF prosecutor, and Assistant Attorney General, our firm brings rare insider knowledge of Florida’s child welfare system and local court procedures—empowering families with experienced and effective advocacy.
Our dependency law services include:
Dependency cases are often emotionally intense and legally complex, with immediate and long-term consequences for families. Jennifer’s background working inside the Department of Children and Families and the Attorney General’s Office provides valuable insight into how dependency cases are evaluated and litigated at the local level, allowing our firm to challenge agency findings and advocate effectively for parents and children.
We stand by our clients from the first DCF contact through case resolution, focusing on protecting parental rights and pursuing reunification whenever possible.
The dependency process involves several stages, and we guide clients through each one, including:
Serving Riverview, FL: Dependency Attorney in Riverview
Ready to Move Forward?
Contact Meister Law Group today at (813) 807-6673 to schedule your consultation with an experienced dependency attorney serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee, and Sarasota counties who will advocate for your parental rights and your family’s future.
Ready to take the next step in protecting your family’s future? Whether you need immediate guidance on a pressing legal matter or want to explore your options with an experienced family law attorney, we’re here to help you navigate these important decisions with confidence and clarity.
These are the most common questions families ask when facing DCF involvement or dependency proceedings in Florida.
A dependency case occurs when DCF alleges that a child is unsafe or not receiving proper care.
Yes, but always with legal guidance. We ensure your cooperation doesn’t jeopardize your rights or case.
Yes. Many parents successfully reunify after completing their case plans with legal support.
Non-compliance can lead to loss of custody or termination of parental rights. Contact an attorney immediately.
Bio coming soon.
Nahtalasia Pena is a dedicated paralegal at Meister Law Group, known for her strong organizational skills, clear communication, and calm approach to complex matters. With a background in multi-store retail management, she brings valuable experience in handling escalations, managing documentation, and supporting clients with care and efficiency. Nahtalasia takes pride in helping clients feel supported throughout the legal process. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her children and bringing positivity, patience, and energy into everything she does.
Jessica Hill is a dedicated paralegal at Meister Law Group, bringing professionalism and compassion to every case she supports. Originally from Michigan and now a proud Florida resident for over 22 years, Jessica balances her career with the joys of raising two beautiful children. She’s passionate about sports, enjoys movie nights, family time, and never turns down a good karaoke session.
Timothy “Tim” Meister is a dedicated professional whose journey spans distinguished service in the US Navy and as a Merchant Marine, followed by a successful career in sales within the insurance sector.
With a strong background in leadership, discipline, and strategic thinking honed during his military years, Tim has brought the same commitment and integrity to helping clients navigate the complexities within insurance landscapes. His passion for building trusted relationships has been a hallmark of his career, earning him respect among peers and clients alike.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tim has been happily married to his wife for over a decade, and together they share the joy of raising three wonderful children. In his free time, Tim enjoys golfing, cooking, and cherishing quality moments with family and friends.
Driven, personable, and grounded in faith and family values, Tim Meister continues to make a meaningful impact both professionally and personally.
Jennifer Meister is an experienced and compassionate family law attorney with a strong commitment to protecting children and families through every stage of their legal journey. As the founder of Meister Law Group, LLC, Jennifer brings over a decade of experience handling high-conflict custody disputes, private and contested adoptions, dependency litigation, and termination of parental rights (TPR) cases.
A graduate of Fordham Law School in New York City, Jennifer has been a proud member of The Florida Bar since 2010,and a Member of the Ohio Bar since 2025. Before founding her own firm, she served as a prosecutor for the Department of Children and Families and as an Assistant Attorney General, where she gained extensive courtroom experience advocating for the safety and well-being of Florida’s most vulnerable children.
Jennifer is especially known for her skillful handling of complex cases involving special needs children, child abuse allegations, and long-term parenting plans. She frequently serves as a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) and attorney ad litem, ensuring children have a voice in the courtroom.
