Age: 27
Family: Katelyn, wife
Pets: A 4-year-old lab-mix named Remi.
Education: B.A., Emory University, 2008; Juris Doctor, Mercer University, 2011.
Admitted to the Bar: 2011
Employed by: Marks Gray
Field of practice: Civil and commercial litigation
Professional organizations: The Jacksonville Bar Association, Jacksonville Area Defense Counsel and Florida Defense Lawyer's Association.
Community involvement: The Ronald McDonald House; JBA/YLS Run for Cover Committee; JBA/YLS "Tee It Up" Golf Tournament Committee; and Jacksonville Area Legal Aid.
How did you become involved?
I became involved with the Ronald McDonald House after I volunteered to serve on the Children's Way 5K Run Committee two years ago. Marks Gray attorney Giselle Carson encouraged me to become involved in the JBA/YLS and put me in contact with Renee Maxey. As for JALA, I signed up for its free CLE training. For each CLE course you sign up for, you make a commitment to serve at least one pro bono client in that specific area.
How can someone else become involved?
Pick a cause you are passionate about and contact someone associated with the organization. Regardless of what the cause may be, help always is appreciated.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
The Ronald McDonald House supports children and their families during their most trying times. They serve an invaluable role to families, and I feel blessed and honored to be able to volunteer my time for such a worthy cause. JALA has been a wonderful opportunity to gain more experience as a young attorney and give back to those who are truly in need of legal counsel. What may be very simple for us to perform can immensely benefit these clients.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
"My Grandfather's Son: A Memoir" by Justice Clarence Thomas.