Samantha (“Sam”) Carlson is a family law attorney with over eight years of dedicated experience handling complex domestic matters. Prior to becoming an attorney, Sam worked exclusively in family law as a paralegal, managing divorce, custody, alimony, and equitable distribution cases from inception through resolution. That hands-on foundation gives her a practical, strategic understanding of the full litigation process. She earned her Juris Doctor, graduating Cum Laude, from Ave Maria School of Law, reflecting her strong legal aptitude, discipline, and commitment to excellence. Before transitioning into her role as an attorney, Sam obtained her Florida Registered Paralegal designation through The Florida Bar, further solidifying her background in legal procedure and case management. She also holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety Administration from Florida Southwestern State College. Sam’s practice focuses exclusively on family law matters, including divorce, timesharing and parenting disputes, alimony, equitable distribution, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. She is known for her efficiency, responsiveness, and ability to manage high-conflict and emotionally charged cases with steady focus and professionalism. Her unique path from paralegal to attorney provides her with a comprehensive perspective on both the legal strategy and client experience involved in family law litigation. Sam is committed to delivering precise, results-driven representation while helping clients navigate some of the most difficult transitions in their lives with clarity and confidence. Outside the practice of law, Sam is a competitive pool player who values strategy, patience, and discipline—qualities that closely mirror her approach to litigation.

 

 

Kristin L. Polk is a fifth-generation Charlotte County native whose legal career is deeply rooted in both her community and her family’s longstanding commitment to the practice of law. Kristin earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Florida before obtaining her Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in 2009. While attending Stetson’s part-time law program, she balanced her academic pursuits with hands-on experience as a law clerk. During law school, she was an active member of Phi Delta Phi, the international legal honor society. After briefly practicing at a foreclosure law firm in Tampa, Kristin returned to her hometown of Punta Gorda to focus her career on family law. She now practices at Polk Law Firm, a firm originally established by her father, John L. Polk, continuing a legacy of legal service within the community. Her father, also a graduate of Stetson University College of Law (Class of 1976), remains an active presence in the local legal community. Kristin’s practice focuses primarily on family law matters, including divorce, parenting disputes, alimony, equitable distribution, and marital agreements. She is also experienced in drafting estate planning documents such as wills, health care surrogates, and living wills. She is an active member of Charlotte County Collaborative Professionals, an organization dedicated to resolving family law disputes in a respectful, private, and cooperative manner. Kristin also attends the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) Family Law Review Course annually to stay current on developments in Florida family law. Beyond her private practice, Kristin serves the community as a volunteer Magistrate for Charlotte County Baker Act proceedings. When not practicing law, Kristin enjoys spending time with her family—often traveling to Orlando to visit Disney or retreating to a cabin in Georgia to recharge.