Attorney at Law Magazine is excited to introduce the first in an ongoing series highlighting lawyers in the counties surrounding Jacksonville. In this first installation, we’ve spotlighted four attorneys in Clay County each with very unique practices.
We are also accepting nominations for attorneys in St. John’s County for our next in the series. Submit nominations to Publisher Thomas Brady at tbrady@attorneyatlawmagazine.com.
Clay County Attorney Spotlights
Stacie Drawdy
Jacksonville Area Legal Aid Clay County
What do you find particularly challenging about your practice? In family law, the standard is what is in the best interests of the children, however, I feel as if the focus generally remains on what is best for the parents. I try to be up front with my clients. They are also parents, and they will have to communicate with each other beyond the child’s 18th birthday. Hopefully they will stay amicable enough to both see their children graduate from college or have children of their own. It’s wonderful when both parents can be there for the child at that time.
Do you have any mentors or professors that encouraged you along the way? John Kopelousos was the biggest mentor of my legal career. His lessons went beyond the bounds of our profession, to how a professional should conduct themselves at all times and sometimes most importantly, life lessons on how to make the world a better place. No matter what type of case or issue I had, John knew how to advise me the right way to proceed and what steps to take next. His friendship still means more to me than he will ever know.
What do you most hope to accomplish in the future? After moving from private practice to Jacksonville Area Legal Aid I cannot describe how fulfilling my practice has become and the extension of my practice beyond family law. We provide so many services to those in need. As the manager of the Clay County office of Jacksonville Area Legal Aid I am fortunate to know everyone in our office helps someone each and every day. In the future, as our county continues to grow exponentially, I aim to continue to staff the office so we can continue to deliver economic, social, and housing justice to low-income and at-risk individuals and families in our county.
Courtney Grimm
Clay County Board of County Commission
Tell us about your work as Clay County Attorney. I have been serving as Clay County Attorney for a little over eight years now and have found the experience to be not only rewarding but exciting and challenging. Being in the public sector, where you truly are serving the public and working specifically on behalf of the citizens in your own community, brings a unique perspective to every day. No day presents the same issues, and the issues are wide ranging from transactional matters, employee relations, and animal cruelty to policy proposals and citizen needs. I am constantly trying to work through situations to find a solution that works for the county and its citizens.
What experiences do you believe are important for an attorney? I think it is essential to be involved in your local and state bar community not only for your professional development but to give back to the profession and the community. Being a member of, and participating with a committee of, the Jacksonville Bar Association or Clay Bar Association, or another voluntary bar association, along with being a part of a Florida Bar section or serving on a Florida Bar committee will not only lead to professional connections that will assist you throughout your career, but will provide you professional growth and mentorship.
Todd W. Henry
Henry & Henry
What accomplishment are you most proud of achieving? Next year I will be celebrating 30 years in bankruptcy practice. It has truly been my honor to help so many clients with their legal issues. Along the way, I have made many friends and even picked up a business partner (my wonderful wife in 2010). When I worked for a Chapter 7 U.S. Bankruptcy Trustee in law school, I knew that bankruptcy was an area of law that I could help people struggling with difficult financial situations. I love going to work knowing that I might make a difference in someone’s life.
Tell us about your fellow attorneys at the firm. The other “Henry” in Henry & Henry is my wife, Jeffrie. We work on cases together, but her main area of practice is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy reorganizations. As an honors graduate from the University of Florida Law School, she has brought so much depth to the firm. We are able to handle extremely complicated financial situations that other bankruptcy firms will not touch. I am always honored when lawyers call our office for assistance with complicated issues, or to refer clients to us. I think that Jeffrie is a big reason for our reputation in that regard.
Ashley Nicole Speers
Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office
When did you first know you wanted to become an attorney? Growing up with parents who separated at a young age, I developed a deep desire to advocate for children who didn’t have a voice. This passion led me to join the debate team, where I participated in team debate and discovered my love for advocacy. In law school, I found the Guardian ad Litem Office, which gave me the opportunity to advocate every day for children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected. At one point, I considered a career in the FBI, but my commitment to ensuring children’s voices are heard ultimately guided me toward the legal field.
Do you have any mentors or professors that encouraged you along the way? My twin sister, who is also an attorney, has been my biggest supporter throughout my life and career. She has shown me how to handle complex trials with grace, face adversity head-on, and never back down. Her example continues to push me to strive for excellence and hold myself to the highest standards, ensuring the best outcomes for the children I represent.
What do you most hope to accomplish in the future? I have always aspired for my career to lead me to the bench as a judge. However, more than anything, I want to continue leading with passion while building a reputation rooted in respect for everyone. Becoming a mother a little over two years ago has strengthened my commitment to advocating for children, ensuring that my dedication never fades. I also want to set an example for my daughter—that she can be strong, passionate, and unwavering in her values while treating others with kindness and respect, even in disagreement.
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