About

Meet Our Caring Yet Zealous Team

How is Heather Bryan Law Different?

WE CARE

We strive to make our clients’ lives better by helping families navigate the law amicably and with integrity. When available, we encourage alternative dispute resolution and alternatives to litigation, to make your co-parenting process more positive and compassionate. We care about the whole person, including their mental health. We provide compassion to all persons, especially in the area of criminal defense.

INTEGRITY

We don’t just try to get your business. We’re honest about what we can do for you under Florida law, and we don’t tell you we can accomplish something that is impossible just to get your business.

TECHNOLOGY AND VIRTUAL SERVICES

We can provide legal services for you remotely via phone and Zoom for your convenience. We also offer e-signature services and cloud-based storage for documents. This also allows us to be more efficient and cost-effective for you.

Heather Bryan, Owner and Founding Attorney

Heather Bryan stands as a seasoned trial attorney, wielding extensive knowledge across family law, criminal law, and personal injury law. In 2016, she took a significant step in her legal journey by founding her own law practice, focusing predominantly on family law. In this capacity, Heather has been a guiding force for numerous families, navigating them through the intricacies of the divorce process with compassion and legal acumen.

Heather’s commitment to the legal profession extends beyond her practice. She has been an integral part of the Polk Association for Women Lawyers since its inception, serving on the Board of Directors and assuming the prestigious role of the association’s president. This reflects not only her legal prowess but also her dedication to advancing the interests of women in the legal field.

As a member of the Florida Bar, the US District Court for the Middle District of Florida, and the US Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, Heather’s legal reach spans various jurisdictions, showcasing her commitment to a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape.

Heather’s journey into family law is deeply rooted in personal experience. Having navigated the divorce process herself, she brings a unique perspective to her practice. For 16 years, she has successfully managed co-parenting on a personal level, fostering a deep understanding of the challenges her clients face.

Heather’s passion extends beyond the courtroom. Before embarking on her legal career, Heather spent a decade as a teacher, demonstrating her commitment to education and community development. Active in her community, Heather is a member of First United Methodist Church, further exemplifying her dedication to both her professional and personal communities. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and History and a Master of Arts degree in Educational Psychology in addition to her Juris Doctor degree, rounding out her multifaceted background and contributing to her holistic approach to the practice of law. Heather Bryan stands as a testament to the intersection of legal expertise, personal empathy, and community engagement in the pursuit of justice.

BACKGROUND

Prior to becoming an attorney, Heather served her community by teaching World History at Auburndale High School. Before that, Heather taught high school in Georgia. Helping others has always been a priority to Heather. She is active in the Lakeland community and a member of the League of Women Voters, Bridge, and First United Methodist Church. She currently serves on the board of the Polk Association for Women Lawyers as the President.

EDUCATION

Heather received her legal education at Barry Law School in Orlando, where she was on scholarship and graduated with honors. During law school, Heather served as a Teaching Assistant for her Legal Research and Writing Class, a Research Assistant for her Constitutional Law professor, where she assisted in researching and writing an appellate brief to the 11th Circuit of Appeals, and she competed with the trial team. Heather received her Master of Arts in Educational Psychology from the University of Connecticut and her Bachelor of Science in Education and History from Columbus State University—both with high honors.

BAR ADMISSIONS

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Candice Dixon, Of Counsel

Attorney Candice Dixon comes to Heather Bryan Law, P.A. with seven years of experience in both private practice and the public sector. Most recently, Candice worked as an associate attorney primarily practicing Social Security Disability Law and assisting with Personal Injury cases. Prior to private practice, Attorney Dixon worked as an Assistant Public Defender for five years. As an Assistant Public Defender, Candice handled felony and misdemeanor cases. In addition to handling her caseload, Candice was promoted to felony division chief and county court chief where she supervised three to fourteen attorneys. Throughout her legal career, Candice has represented her clients in over 200 Social Security claims and 75 criminal trials.

Candice obtained her Juris Doctorate, cum laude from Florida Coastal School of Law after obtaining her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida. Candice currently serves as Treasurer for Polk Association for Women Lawyers and has served as President-Elect, President, Immediate Past President, and Chapter Representative. Candice also serves as a board member for Polk County Trial Lawyers Association and is a member of Lakeland Bar Association.

If you have questions about your family law case, contact us or call 863-825-5309 to set up a consultation.