Laura M. dePaz
Laura dePaz was born in Gainesville, Florida and has spent most of her life in North Florida with occasional summers spent at her parents' native home of Puerto Rico. She is fluently bilingual, speaking conversationally in both Spanish and English.
Ms. dePaz attended the University of Florida where she was on the Dean’s List and graduated cum laude in 2003 with a major in Political Science and a minor in Latin American Studies. After completing her undergraduate degree, Ms. dePaz moved to Paris, France, to live and work. She returned in 2004 and in early 2005 began her studies at the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Ms. dePaz was awarded the Johnson S. Savary merit-based scholarship in addition to a Law School Fellows Grant which allowed her to work as a research assistant to one of her favorite professors during her first semester of study. While at the University of Florida, Ms. dePaz participated in the John Marshall Bar Association and the Family Law Society.
Certified by the Supreme Court of Florida as a Certified Legal Intern she participated in the Full Representation Family Law Clinic at the Virgil C. Hawkins Civil Clinics. Through the clinic, Ms. dePaz was able to represent clients in family law cases within the 8th Judicial Circuit.
After receiving her Juris Doctorate in December 2007, Ms. dePaz was admitted to practice law as a member of the Florida Bar in February of 2009. Additionally she is admitted to the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. She is also a member of The James C. Adkins, Jr. Inn of Court.
Her legal career began with a small firm in Lake City. In 2010 she accepted a position with the Bice Cole Law Firm located in her hometown of Alachua, Florida. Her law practice currently consists of personal injury, family law, and product liability defense.
In addition to raising her son, Ms. dePaz enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and jogging. Along with her legal career, she is also the lead female vocalist for Tropix, a Latin-fusion band based in Gainesville.