Dependency & Termination of Parental Rights Attorney in Pinellas County
Specialized Chapter 39 Representation for Florida Families Navigating the State System
A Recognized Chapter 39 Attorney Serving St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Clearwater
When the state intervenes in a family — whether through the removal of children, a dependency proceeding, or a petition to terminate parental rights — the stakes could not be higher. These cases move quickly, the legal framework is highly specific, and the outcomes are life-altering.
Attorney Kerya L. Koeut has spent years working inside this system. Her background includes experience as a Guardian ad Litem, Attorney ad Litem, and as a prosecutor in the child welfare division of the Pinellas County State Attorney’s Office. She understands Chapter 39 — Florida’s child welfare statute — from multiple sides of the courtroom. That depth of experience is what families in Pinellas County, Tampa, and Clearwater rely on when the situation is this serious.
Whether you are a parent working to reunify with your children, a family member seeking to understand your role in a dependency proceeding, or a party involved in a termination of parental rights case — we are here to help you understand what the law requires and what your options are.
When the state becomes involved in your family, the process can feel overwhelming and move faster than you expect. Understanding what Chapter 39 requires — and having experienced counsel at your side — can make a critical difference in what comes next.
Why Families Trust Kerya Koeut With Their Most Serious Cases
Deep Chapter 39 Knowledge
Attorney Koeut's entire career has been shaped by work in and around Florida's child welfare system. She understands dependency proceedings, case plans, and termination of parental rights law at a level most family attorneys never reach.
Experience on Multiple Sides
Having served as a prosecutor in the Pinellas County child welfare division, a Guardian ad Litem, and an Attorney ad Litem, she knows how the state builds its cases — and what it takes to respond effectively.
Individualized Representation
Every dependency case is different. We take the time to understand your specific circumstances, what the state is alleging, and what a realistic path forward looks like for your family.
Honest Guidance in Difficult Moments
These cases are frightening. We don't minimize that. What we offer is clear, honest information about what the law says, what the court will be looking for, and what steps give you the best chance at the outcome you need.
Serving Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay Area
We represent clients in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa, and surrounding Pinellas County communities in dependency and TPR matters.
How Florida Dependency and Termination of Parental Rights Cases Work
Chapter 39 of the Florida Statutes governs dependency proceedings and termination of parental rights. These cases follow a distinct legal process separate from standard family court. Here is an overview of how they generally proceed.
When the State Intervenes
Dependency proceedings arise when the Department of Children and Families (DCF) determines that a child has been abused, neglected, or abandoned — or is at risk of harm. The state may remove the child from the home or allow the child to remain while imposing supervision, depending on the severity of the allegations.
The Dependency Petition
Once DCF becomes involved, the state files a dependency petition with the court. Parents are entitled to legal representation throughout this process. Early involvement of an experienced attorney can significantly affect how the case is handled from the outset.
The Case Plan
If children are removed or supervision is ordered, the court typically requires parents to complete a Case Plan — a structured set of requirements designed to address the concerns that led to state involvement. Case Plans commonly include parenting courses, stable housing and employment, and may address domestic violence, substance abuse, counseling, or anger management.
The Reunification Goal
Florida law prioritizes family reunification when it is safe and appropriate to do so. The state’s goal is to resolve the conditions that led to intervention and return children to their parents. Successfully completing a Case Plan is central to achieving reunification.
The Termination of Prental Rights
If reunification is not achieved — or if the circumstances are severe enough — the state may petition to terminate parental rights. This is a permanent legal action. Parents facing a TPR petition have the right to an attorney and to contest the petition in court.
Representation in TPR Proceedings
Termination of parental rights cases require experienced, focused legal advocacy. The burden of proof, the procedural requirements, and the permanence of the outcome all demand an attorney who knows this area of law thoroughly.
Common Questions About Dependency and Termination of Parental Rights in Florida
A dependency case is initiated when the state — through DCF — determines that a child has been abused, neglected, or abandoned, or is at substantial risk of harm. The court then oversees the family’s situation, which may include removal of the child, supervision, and a requirement that parents complete a Case Plan.
Yes. Parents have the right to legal representation in dependency proceedings. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court may appoint one. However, having an attorney who specializes in Chapter 39 matters — rather than a general public defender — can make a meaningful difference in how your case is handled.
A Case Plan is a court-supervised set of tasks and requirements you must complete to address the concerns that led to state involvement. Failure to complete the Case Plan — or failure to make meaningful progress — can result in the state pursuing termination of your parental rights.
Yes, under certain circumstances. The state must meet a specific legal standard and prove its case in court, but termination of parental rights can occur without parental consent if the court finds it is in the child’s best interests and the statutory grounds are met. You have the right to contest a TPR petition.
A Guardian ad Litem is appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the child — independently from both the parents and the state. Attorney Koeut has served in this role, which gives her direct insight into how these representatives evaluate cases and what courts give weight to in dependency and TPR proceedings.
Chapter 39 of the Florida Statutes is the law that governs child abuse, neglect, abandonment, dependency proceedings, and termination of parental rights in Florida. It establishes the rights and responsibilities of parents, the procedures DCF and the courts must follow, and the standards used to make decisions about children’s welfare and placement.
A Guardian ad Litem is an attorney or trained volunteer appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the child — separately from either parent’s attorney. Attorney Koeut has served in this role, which gives her direct insight into how courts evaluate what truly serves a child’s well-being.