Jacksonville Bar Association Celebrates “36 Under 36” Honorees

News Summary

The Jacksonville Bar Association (JBA) proudly announces that eight of its members have been included in The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division’s prestigious “36 Under 36” list for 2025. This recognition highlights their dedication and professionalism in the legal field, showcasing their hard work and contributions to the community. The impressive number of honorees marks a significant achievement for the JBA, setting a standard for excellence within the legal profession in Jacksonville.

Jacksonville Bar Association Shines Bright with “36 Under 36” Honorees

Exciting news is currently buzzing around the legal community in Jacksonville! Eight remarkable members of the Jacksonville Bar Association (JBA) have been recognized on The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division’s “36 Under 36” list for 2025. This prestigious accolade is not just a feather in their caps; it’s a testament to their hard work and dedication in the legal field!

Setting the Standard

To make it onto this exclusive list, candidates are put through a rigorous selection process that highlights their professionalism, ethical standards, integrity, and overall commitment to lifting the legal profession. It’s a big deal and definitely something to celebrate!

Meet the Honorees

So who are the lucky eight representing Jacksonville? Let’s take a closer look at these talented legal minds:

• Shawna Abbatiello – Serving as an assistant public defender in the 4th Judicial Circuit, Shawna passionately dedicates her career to defending those who need legal representation the most.
• Naphtalie Azor – As the founder and managing attorney at Azor Law, Naphtalie specializes in employment discrimination, civil rights, and whistleblower retaliation law, advocating fiercely for justice in the workplace.
• Blair Butler – A personal injury attorney at The Law Offices of Ron Sholes, Blair is committed to helping victims find the legal support they require after accidents.
• Kyla George – An attorney at Balch & Bingham, Kyla focuses on commercial, health care, and construction litigation, ensuring that her clients navigate these complex areas with ease.
• Ronnie Graham – A litigation attorney at the Florida Health Justice Project, Ronnie works diligently to tackle healthcare-related legal issues, making a positive impact on people’s lives.
• Kayla Haines Herrin – As the president of the JBA Young Lawyers Section and corporate counsel at Novastone Capital Advisors, Kayla oversees mergers and acquisitions across North America, proving her mettle in the corporate world.
• Josef Hess – An associate attorney at Rissman, Josef specializes in liability defense, expertly advocating for his clients in various legal battles.
• Austin Sherman – A shareholder at Carr Allison, Austin focuses on personal injury defense, government torts, public liability, medical malpractice, transportation, and commercial litigation, showcasing his versatile expertise.

Impressive Recognition

This year, the JBA boasts the highest number of attorneys recognized on the “36 Under 36” list compared to other judicial circuits across Florida. With over 200 nominees vying for one of the coveted spots, this achievement is nothing short of remarkable! In fact, the 4th Judicial Circuit, which encompasses Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties, can be proud of its standing as the home of these exceptional lawyers.

A Bright Future Ahead

The selection of these eight members is not just a win for their personal careers; it reflects the strong, vibrant legal community in Jacksonville. Each honoree is making waves in their specialties, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the law. Their achievements are setting a shining example for the next generation of young lawyers, proving that excellence in the legal field is achievable through hard work and integrity.

As the legal landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that with energetic and passionate individuals like these, the future of law in Jacksonville is looking incredibly bright! Let’s all take a moment to applaud these rockstars of the legal profession for their achievements and contributions!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Residents Demand Better Maintenance for Rogero Road in Jacksonville
Community Push to Rename Jefferson Park Golf Course
Jacksonville Schools Shine in Heritage Classic and Sports Events
Jacksonville Attorney Pleads Not Guilty in Drug Case
Southwest Florida Remembers Economic Visionary David Barton
Cape Cod National Golf Club Recognized Among Top 200 Resort Golf Courses
Colleen Skinner Becomes First Law Librarian at JU College of Law
Pentagon Halts Transgender Military Recruits
Jacksonville Schools Shine in Power Poll Ahead of District Play
Jacksonville Council Members Show No Confidence in Legal Counsel

Additional Resources

• Jacksonville Daily Record
• Wikipedia: Lawyer
• The Jaxson Mag
• Google Search: Florida lawyers
• First Coast News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Law
• ABC News
• Google News: Jacksonville lawyers