Joy Owenby of Owenby Law. (Credit: Courtesy of Owenby Law)
She Started Her Firm to Give Children a Voice in Our Legal System
Joy Owenby says her family law practice, Owenby Law, is a testament to her drive and dedication to protecting others, especially the most vulnerable.
Joy Owenby started her family law practice, Owenby Law, in 2004, with the intention of setting an example for her four children. Prior to founding her firm, Owenby served as legal counsel for the state of Florida’s Guardian Ad Litem Program, where she focused primarily on protecting children’s rights and interests in court cases involving dependency, abuse, neglect and abandonment, as well as criminal law. In the past six years, Owenby’s Jacksonville, Florida-based practice has received a number of accolades for her team’s dedication to their clients, and has been named one of the fastest-growing firms in the country. The mompreneur is proud to have helped thousands of families to date, and finds inspiration in her own children, who she says help her “keep her perspective fresh.”
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your industry?
We have compassion for each and every one of our clients, and we advocate for them as if they were our own family. Whenever a client calls – we pick up the phone. We provide personalized case management, and are extremely results-oriented in our representation. We are also here to give children a voice in court, and to advocate for them effectively.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Our firm has been recognized by esteemed bodies and publications such as Law Firm 500, Inc. 5,000, and Seminole 100 as one of the fastest-growing firms in the country.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
As a working mother of four, balancing everything can be challenging. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to set aside dedicated family time, ensuring I’m fully present and engaged. I take Fridays off during the summer, which not only allows me to focus on my family, but has also given me a refreshed perspective on my work.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
You have to prioritize building a strong foundation from day one. When I started up, I was focused on serving clients and growing the business. But I quickly learned that success isn’t just about legal expertise — it’s about having the right systems, people and processes in place.
One thing I wish I had known earlier is the importance of delegation and investing in a strong team. As an entrepreneur, it’s tempting to try to handle everything yourself, but that approach isn’t sustainable. Surrounding yourself with skilled professionals — whether it’s legal staff, administrative support or marketing experts — allows you to focus on what you do best while ensuring the business runs smoothly.
Lastly, never stop learning. Whether it’s adapting to new technology, refining business strategies, or staying ahead of changes in family law, continuous growth is what sets successful firms apart.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
In the resilience of my clients and the impact my work has on their lives. In family law, we’re often dealing with some of the most challenging moments people face — divorce, custody battles and other emotional hurdles. When I see a client take a step toward a brighter future, even after hardship, it reminds me why I do what I do.
I also turn to my family for support and motivation. They are a constant source of love and encouragement, reminding me that even on tough days, I’m part of something bigger than myself. And, I like to remind myself of how far I’ve come in this journey. Remembering the growth, the lessons learned, and the positive changes we’ve made along the way helps me find the strength to keep pushing forward.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
“The Dog Days are Over” by Florence and the Machine.
Who is your most important role model?
My kids inspire me to work smarter and keep my perspective fresh. ◾
Facebook: @OwenbyLaw
LinkedIn: @OwenbyLaw
Check out our Advice + Tips for entrepreneurs starting-up
Watch our latest videos
Subscribe to our podcast