Cynthia A. Stafford, Esq. – Senior Attorney

Ms. Stafford joined Dade Legal Aid over 20 years ago as a Domestic Violence intern, then became a Staff Attorney implementing the Legal Aid Miami Beach Domestic Violence Collaborative bringing the first legal and social services to victims of domestic violence residing in Miami Beach. After serving eight years as a State Representative in the Florida House of Representatives, Ms. Stafford returned to Dade Legal Aid as a Domestic Violence Attorney. First elected to the Florida Legislature in 2010 and subsequently re-elected to four consecutive terms, Ms. Stafford served as a Legislator until 2018 when she was unable to run again due to term limits. As a Legislator, Ms. Stafford was House Minority Policy Chair and on the Appropriations, Policy and Judiciary Committees (Ranking Member). In 2012, the Mary Kay Foundation awarded a grant in recognition of Ms. Stafford to the Miami Rescue Mission to support housing and services for domestic violence victims and their children. In 2013, the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar honored her with the Legislator Award for her efforts on behalf of Florida’s families throughout the legislative session. In 2018, Lotus House Shelter for Homeless Women and Children honored Ms. Stafford with the Leadership Award for her efforts in the Legislature. In 2021, she was presented the Honorable Robert Shevin Public Service Award by the Miami Dade Bar for her longstanding commitment to public service.  Ms. Stafford was born and raised in Liberty City and earned her J.D. from St. Thomas University School of Law. Ms. Stafford also teaches at Miami-Dade College School of justice. A true visionary and leader, in 2020 she helped launch Dade Legal Aid’s satellite offices in The Joseph Caleb Center.