Attorney at Law Magazine First Coast is pleased to present its annual Women in Law special issue, featuring the 2026 First Coast Women in Law. These spotlighted attorneys have shared a bit about their practice as well as a bit about a woman in law who inspires her or who inspired her legal career.
Wicker Smith O’Hara Mccoy & Ford, P.A.
Kyle Schmitt began her legal career in insurance subrogation, where she developed a strong foundation in complex claims analysis and recovery strategies. In 2020, she transitioned her practice to civil defense, where she has since built significant experience representing clients in high-exposure matters. Schmitt now focuses on defending healthcare providers and institutions in medical malpractice cases.
A woman in law who has inspired her: Former Judge Elizabeth Scherer, who presided over the Parkland shooter murder trial in south Florida.
Jax Mediation Center
Penny Schmidt practiced civil trial law for three decades before becoming a full-time certified circuit court mediator. As owner of Jax Mediation Center and a trained arbitrator with over 20 years of mediation experience, she brings seasoned courtroom perspective to thoughtful, effective dispute resolution across a range of civil matters.
A woman in law who has inspired her: When I entered the legal profession, there were few women in visible leadership roles in the legal community. I found inspiration along the way in women judges, attorneys, and mediators whose strong work ethic, professionalism, and willingness to mentor shaped how I practiced law. Their actions continue to guide how I approach mediation, mentorship, and service, both within the legal profession and the broader community.
Marks Gray
Kendall Manini is a shareholder at Marks Gray who practices employment law and performs independent workplace investigations. She received her bachelor’s degree from Georgia College & State University and law degree from the University of Florida. She is a member of Beaches Rotaract and a volunteer at the Jacksonville Humane Society.
A woman who inspired her legal career: My legal career was inspired by my late undergraduate professor, Jennifer Hammack. Professor Hammack encouraged me to be involved in my undergraduate mock trial team, to take the LSAT, and ultimately helped me get into the law school of my dreams. She encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone and take hold of the power that I must make a difference in the world.
O’Hara Law Firm
Kimberley Leonard is an associate at O’Hara Law Firm, focusing on insurance defense and a former assistant public defender. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Bethune-Cookman University and her Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law. She is a Florida Bar Leadership Academy Fellow, YLD “36 under 36” recipient, and Grievance Committee member.
A woman who inspired her legal career: My mother, Jennifer Cannon, whose strength and work ethic shaped my approach to advocacy, and Constance Baker Motley whose legacy reflects the impact of persistence and excellence in the law.
The Hinson Law Firm, P.A.
Kathryn Stanfill is the current president of JWLA and serves on the JBA board as well as an active member in various bar associations. Her practice focuses on probate, including probate for personal injury and wrongful death; guardianship; and estate planning.
A woman who inspired her legal career: Former Montgomery County Mayor Carolyn Bowers inspired my legal career through an undergraduate internship, that provided firsthand exposure to public service and the entire legal system.
Office of Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional Counsel
Sarah Morris is a capital defender with the Office of Criminal Conflict & Civil Regional Counsel in Jacksonville, representing indigent individuals facing the death penalty or life imprisonment. She serves on The Florida Bar Criminal Procedure Rules Committee, the Fourth Circuit Grievance Committee, and the boards of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers and Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association.
A woman who inspired her legal career: Ann Finnell inspired my legal career through her dedication to indigent defense. As a respected leader in criminal law and mentor to many, she demonstrated that compassion, excellence, and courage can coexist in even the most difficult cases.
Delegal Poindexter & Underkofler
Erin Mason’s practice focuses on labor and employment law. Before law school, she was a social worker and later became an assistant public defender. She then worked at the Office of General Counsel. Mason currently serves on the board of trustees for Daniel Kids, extending her dedication to advocacy beyond the courtroom.
A woman who inspired her legal career: Marci Ball Elordi
The Law Office of Nooney, Roberts, Hewett & Nowicki
Lisa M. Nommensen is a personal injury attorney and partner at Nooney, Roberts, Hewett and Nowicki. She is dedicated to advocating for injured clients and securing fair compensation. Nommensen is also active in the community, serving as a board member with Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association and Arize Together.
A woman who inspired her legal career: Anni Duke, my Danish grandmother. She used to tell me I could be Justice Sotomayor one day!
Coker Law
Corinne Hodak is a civil trial attorney focusing on medical negligence, combining decades of legal experience with a former career as an intensive care nurse. Hodak earned her law degree with honors from the University of Florida College of Law. Known for skilled advocacy and empathy, she represents injured patients, bringing medical insight, legal precision, and leadership in professional organizations to secure accountability and justice. A leader in the legal profession, Hodak was elected vice president of the National American Board of Trial Advocates in 2026 and will serve as the seventh woman president of National ABOTA in 2028.
A woman who inspired her legal career: A female who was an inspiration and mentor to me is Kitty Phillips, a nurse who became a trial lawyer.
Attorney at Law Magazine is a national legal publication, publishing content for and about private practice attorneys as well as resources for legal consumers. The staff at Attorney at Law Magazine interview attorneys as well as other industry professionals to provide educational content as well as to highlight the individuals and firms driving success in the legal industry.
