When you're going through a divorce or a child custody battle, you want an attorney who knows family law inside and out. But what if your attorney isn't just practicing family law - they're helping write it?
That's the reality for clients of The Virga Law Firm.
This past week, founding attorney Gerard Virga was sworn in as a new member of the Executive Council of the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar. This is one of the most meaningful honors a Florida family law attorney can hold. The Executive Council is the governing body that shapes policy, legislation, and professional standards for family law across the entire state. Getting a seat at that table isn't a ceremonial title. It's an active responsibility.
And Gerard isn't just attending meetings. He'll serve as Co-Chair of the Support Issues Committee and Secretary of the Technology Committee, and he'll remain active on five additional committees: Children's Issues, Continuing Legal Education, Equitable Distribution, Legislation, and Sponsorship. For families navigating child support, asset division, or custody arrangements, having an attorney who is literally co-chairing the statewide committee on those exact issues is a meaningful advantage.
Recognized at the Florida Bar Convention
The recognition didn't stop with the Executive Council. At The Florida Bar Convention in Orlando last week, Gerard received two awards: the Rising Star Award and the Chair's Award for Special Merit. For a family law attorney, and especially for one right here in Northwest Florida, that level of recognition at a statewide convention is a genuine distinction.
Joining Gerard in Orlando was David Lohr, Managing Attorney of the firm's Pensacola office, who also serves on the Children's Issues and Equitable Distribution committees. This firm's involvement in statewide policy isn't a one-person story - it's a team commitment.
What This Means If You're a Client in Pensacola or NW Florida
Most family law firms are doing good, competent work - but their attorneys are focused on the cases in front of them. What's different about The Virga Law Firm is that its lead attorney is simultaneously working at the policy level for the entire state. When Gerard co-chairs the Support Issues Committee, he's engaged with the debates, the case law trends, and the legislative changes before they ripple out to local courtrooms.
For a client in Panama City, Pensacola, Navarre, Fort Walton Beach, or anywhere in Northwest Florida, that means you have an attorney whose knowledge is current, tested, and shaped at the highest levels of the profession.
Gerard’s Invitation
Next week, Gerard has been invited to attend The National Family Law Conference in Las Vegas, hosted by The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers - one of the most selective national organizations in the field. It's another signal that his reputation is extending well beyond Florida.
We are incredibly proud of Gerard, of David, and of the entire team. These honors reflect what this firm has always been built on: a genuine commitment to excellence, to clients, and to the families we serve here in Northwest Florida.