In the latest Board-Certified Spotlight, we sat down with Assistant General Counsel Katelyn Knaak Johnston of the Office of General Counsel for the city of Jacksonville to discuss her career and how board certification has impacted it.
AALM: Tell us what initially drew you to a practice of law. How is your career different today than you envisioned in law school?
KKJ: Like many in my generation, I was captivated by the drama of courtroom justice thanks to television—specifically, Law & Order. I was 12 when I decided I wanted to become a trial attorney. That dream led me to spend most of my 15-year legal career as an assistant state attorney, trying cases in front of juries and honing my courtroom skills. While my career has since evolved, my foundation in trial advocacy continues to serve me every day. Whether it’s litigation strategy or client advising, those skills remain essential.
AALM: What compelled you to seek board certification in criminal law? How did this impact your career?
KKJ: I’ve always been drawn to challenges, and board certification was a significant one. It took five years of focused trial work to qualify, and sitting for the exam was no small feat. While there isn’t a financial incentive for prosecutors, the professional validation and peer recognition have been invaluable. Since becoming board certified, I’ve had the honor of serving on two standing Florida Bar committees—chairing both—and have been invited to teach, speak and write. These opportunities have significantly expanded my professional network and career trajectory.
AALM: After completing the process once, would you ever seek board certification in another practice?
KKJ: Absolutely—I’m always thinking about what’s next. That said, board certification requires deep expertise. Most specialties require five years of focused practice before you’re even eligible to apply. I’m currently about a year into my work in labor and employment law, and while I would consider pursuing certification in this area, I know firsthand how rigorous the process is. The exam is tough by design—it’s meant to certify true experts who uphold both legal excellence and professionalism.
AALM: You have also completed your Master of Public Administration. Can you talk to us about the power of education in growing your career, and what pushed you to earn this degree?
KKJ: I earned my Master of Public Administration from Florida State University in May 2024, completing the program remotely while working full time. That meant a lot of weekends, early mornings, and late nights dedicated to lectures and papers. As a lifelong public servant, I wanted to better understand how to manage public resources responsibly and effectively. I gained valuable insight into human resources, best practices and local government operations. I also believe in maximizing your benefits—state employees in Florida can attend state schools tuition-free, which is an incredible advantage of government employment.
AALM: Tell us about your work as an adjunct professor and mock trial advocacy coach at Jacksonville University College of Law. What do you enjoy most about working with law students?
KKJ: Teaching has always been a part of my life—from swimming lessons to Sunday school, and now law school. I love making complex legal concepts relatable and watching that “lightbulb” moment when a student truly grasps an idea. Coaching trial team is especially rewarding—it gives students a hands-on understanding of trial practice before they step into a courtroom. More than anything, I enjoy mentoring students and helping build strong reputations before they enter the profession.
AALM: You’ve been with the Office of General Counsel for almost a year now. Tell us about your role there and how you’re enjoying your work.
KKJ: I serve as an assistant general counsel in the labor and employment division of the Office of General Counsel for the City of Jacksonville. I represent the city in employment-related disputes and litigation, which often involves investigative work similar to what I did as a prosecutor. My clients now include JSO and JFRD—officers who I once called as witnesses. My trial experience, including more than 50 jury trials, helps me build trust and credibility when advising city employees. I like to joke that I speak fluent “law enforcement.”
AALM: What do you miss most about your role as an assistant state attorney?
KKJ: The people. I miss walking the courthouse halls, chatting with bailiffs, court reporters, lawyers, even janitors. I always took the escalator so I could see more friendly faces. The courthouse is a tight-knit community—everyone plays a role in upholding justice, and despite opposing sides, there’s mutual respect and professionalism.
AALM: Tell us a little bit about your work in the community. Are there any organizations you’re particularly passionate about?
KKJ: I volunteer with the Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital. My connection is deeply personal—when my twins were born, my son came home right away, but my daughter spent nine days in the NICU at Wolfson. I will always be grateful for the compassionate care we received during those difficult early days.
AALM: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
KKJ: A heartfelt thank you to all the public servants who give their time, talent and energy to keep our justice system running. If you’re considering a career in public service, know that the State Attorney’s Office and the Public Defender’s Office are almost always hiring—and they’re incredible places to start!
