About J. Akin Law

Jennifer S. Akin if the Founder and Managing Attorney at J. Akin Law, with over a decade of experience in practicing law. She is considered a expert by the Florida Bar in the area of Elder Law which includes Estate Planning, Guardianship, Special Needs Law and Probate. Jennifer handles challenging cases for individuals and their estate plans, seniors and those with disabilities. Previously a certified nursing aide, Jennifer's experience in a nursing home in Ormond Beach, FL, inspired her focus on long-term care planning. She saw firsthand the financial and emotional toll of long-term care on families and strives to provide the information they need to make important decisions. Jennifer is a member of both the New York (2012) and Florida (2013) bars. Outside of the office, Jennifer is involved in the following • Board of Directors of the ARC – St. Johns • Board of Directors of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys • Board of Directors of Women of Vision – Flagler College • Member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys • Member of the Florida Bar Elder Law Section • Vice President of the St. Johns County Bar Association • Haven Community Advisory Board – St. Augustine Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys quality time with her husband Barry, and their beautiful children, Alex, Bear and Isla. Jennifer plays competitive tennis and loves to run and travel.

Barry Akin oversees all finances, marketing, and HR for the firm. Barry graduated from the Coggin College of Business from the University of North Florida with a BBA in Economics. He grew up in Jacksonville, Florida and currently resides in St. Augustine Florida. His goals are to help grow the firm and ensure all the employees maintain a healthy work life balance. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Jennifer and their three small children, Alex, Bear, and Isla outside the office. Other hobbies include golf, fishing and spending time in the field with his bird dog an English Cocker named Gunner.

Cynthia Phelps is a dedicated professional with a background in customer service. She graduated from Flagler College in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and English, laying the foundation for her career in serving others. With over 20 years of experience in customer service, Cynthia brings a wealth of interpersonal skills to her role at J. Akin Law, where she joined the team in 2020. Based in St. Augustine since 2000, Cynthia is deeply rooted in her community. Her career at J. Akin Law focuses on estate planning, where she excels in client relations. Cynthia is committed to building strong, personal connections with clients, ensuring they feel comfortable and secure throughout the estate planning process. Outside of work, Cynthia enjoys pursuing her passions. She is an avid crocheter, finding joy in creating handmade items. Her love for cats is evident in her free time, as she cherishes moments spent with her feline companions. Cynthia Phelps exemplifies professionalism, compassion, and a strong commitment to serving her clients and community alike.

As a dedicated Medicaid Specialist, I’ve been with our Elder Law firm since we first opened our doors in 2019, proudly supporting Jennifer Akin in serving our community. Married to my best friend for 17 years, I’m a proud parent of two wonderful children who keep me busy—whether I’m cheering on my son at the baseball field or watching my daughter shine at cheerleading competitions. I’m passionate about working closely with our clients’ families to ensure their loved ones receive the Medicaid benefits they need. With Jennifer Akin’s expert legal guidance, I’m here to protect your family’s assets and help secure the Medicaid benefits you deserve, so you don’t have to worry about the costs of long-term care. Together, we’ll navigate this journey with care and confidence!

COMING SOON --

As a dedicated Florida Registered Paralegal at our elder law firm, I bring not just my expertise but also my passion for helping others. I'm happily married with three wonderful children who keep me on my toes. When I'm not assisting our amazing clients, you'll often find me volunteering at my church or breaking a sweat staying active is my secret to balancing life’s demands. Handling probate is where my heart truly lies. It’s a unique blend of my strengths: empathy, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of the law. There's nothing more fulfilling than guiding families through complex times with care and precision. Serving our clients is more than a job; it's a calling. Whether it's navigating the intricacies of probate or offering a compassionate ear, I’m here to make a difference every step of the way.

Julia Fales is a distinguished Guardianship Paralegal known for her unwavering commitment to the law and compassionate service to others. Her illustrious career began with a profound passion for legal advocacy, leading her to earn her Paralegal certificate from Mildred Elley Business School in Albany, New York, in 1989. Julia's early experience in the field includes a notable 14-year tenure at a Legal publishing company, where she honed her expertise before transitioning to roles focused on ensuring organizational compliance with federal and state laws and regulations. With over five years in various law offices, Julia joined J. Akin Law in July 2021, marking a significant milestone of three years of dedicated service as of July 2024. Her professional journey is underscored by a deep-seated desire to assist individuals in navigating complex legal landscapes, particularly in matters of guardianship. Julia has found profound fulfillment in her role with Guardianship Advocacy, where she guides parents through the intricacies of the Florida Judicial system as their children come of age at 18. Additionally, she provides crucial support to families facing urgent situations involving loved ones in mental health crises, ensuring swift and empathetic interventions. Beyond her professional achievements, Julia cherishes time spent with her two grandchildren, whom she lovingly describes as the center of her universe. She enjoys engaging in activities with her husband and two beloved puppies and finds solace in leisurely walks along the beach. Committed to making a positive impact beyond her career, Julia is actively pursuing opportunities to contribute to animal welfare causes through organizations such as the Humane Society and Safe. Julia Fales exemplifies a rare blend of legal expertise, compassionate advocacy, and a profound dedication to enriching the lives of those around her. Her unwavering commitment to justice and community service makes her an invaluable asset to both her clients and the broader legal community.

COMING SOON --

As the friendly face and welcoming voice at our bustling law firm, I bring years of customer service experience to ensure every client feels valued and heard. With a great listening ear, I love making sure our clients' needs are met efficiently and concisely. Living in beautiful St. Augustine, I'm proud to have two wonderful children who I love spending time with. In my free time, you can often find me soaking up the sun at the beach, cooking up something special, or volunteering at my local church. Working here allows me to blend my passion for helping others with my knack for organization and communication. It's all about creating a positive experience for everyone who walks through our doors, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this amazing team.