Deciding on Equality

As we continue our year of Decisions that Define Us, JWLA invites you to a special joint luncheon with the D.W. Perkins Bar Association focusing on the deliberate decision to advance equality, within the legal profession, our workplaces, and the justice system as a whole.

Equality is shaped by the choices lawyers make as advocates, leaders, employers, and colleagues. This panel discussion brings together respected members of our legal community whose careers reflect thoughtful engagement with issues of access, opportunity, and fairness across diverse practice areas.

Panelists will share how their personal experiences and professional roles have influenced their understanding of equality, the challenges they see in achieving it, and the practical steps lawyers and legal organizations can take to foster more equitable and inclusive environments.

Panelists include:

Giselle Carson, Shareholder Marks Gray, a corporate immigration and compliance attorney, will speak on equality through the lens of global mobility and workforce access. A two-time immigrant and published author, Giselle brings both personal and professional insight into how immigration policies and employer practices impact opportunity in today’s legal and corporate landscapes.

Ashlea A. Edwards, Shareholder Gray Robinson, will address equality from an employment law and litigation perspective. Ashlea represents employers in matters involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wage and hour claims, and advises organizations on compliance and governance. Her practice offers a front-row view of where legal standards and workplace realities intersect, and sometimes diverge. As a past President of the Florida Bar’s Young Lawyers Division, Ashlea also brings a leadership perspective shaped by advancing professionalism, inclusion, and engagement among attorneys across Florida.

Kimberly Woods, Partner Boyd & Jenerette, will discuss equality in litigation practice and bar leadership. A partner at Boyd & Jenerette, Kimberly focuses her practice on auto liability defense, insurance defense, and general civil litigation, representing clients in complex and high-stakes matters. A Past President of the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association and an officer of the D.W. Perkins Bar Association, Kimberly has been deeply engaged in professional service and leadership, advocating for inclusion and advancement within the legal community.

Kimberley D. Leonard, Associate O'Hara Law Firm, will share her perspective on equality shaped by public service, leadership, and non-linear career paths. A former Assistant Public Defender and Past President of the D.W. Perkins Bar Association, Kimberley has been recognized for her leadership and commitment to service, including being named to the Florida Bar YLD’s 36 Under 36.

The panel will be moderated by Aaron Irving, Director of Pro Bono at Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, former private practitioner, and adjunct professor at Florida State College at Jacksonville.

Whether you are navigating equality issues in your workplace, your leadership roles, or your client advocacy, join us for a thoughtful and practical conversation on how deciding on equality can define our profession. 

This year, JWLA is continuing its efforts of community outreach and giving back to the local community.  For each luncheon, we will spotlight a local charity or other nonprofit organization and will conduct a donation drive, to be collected at that month’s luncheon.  More information about the charity will be shared closer to the event.

We hope you will join in on our effort to give back to our local community.  Any questions can be directed to Katelyn Johnston at [email protected]