PARALEGALS
Amy Balding – Estate Planning Paralegal
Amy joined Cox & Nici in 2002. She came to us with a strong background in administrative support, customer service, and sales. Amy earned her B.S. in Health Studies with a minor in Political Science from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL in 1998. She has taken a number of courses in Paralegal Studies at International College as well. Amy’s work ethic with her gifts and skills has made her an invaluable asset to the firm. Her role with the firm has evolved from Receptionist through Office Assistant, Administrative Assistant, and Executive Assistant to the Managing Partner to Administrative Coordinator for the firm.
Michelle Taylor – Probate Paralegal
Michelle came to Cox & Nici in 2003 as a Legal Assistant. She was experienced in customer service management and enrolled in Legal Studies at International College. Michelle earned her B.S. in Legal Studies in 2006 and was promoted to Paralegal. She is the firm’s primary Probate Paralegal. She is highly skilled in all aspects of the Estate Administration process. Michelle continues to equip herself for a solid future with the firm. She is currently enrolled in the Financial Planner Certification program.
Kathleen Valentine – Real Estate and Probate Paralegal
Kathy is the newest member of the Cox & Nici Paralegal team, but she comes to us with a wealth of experience and wisdom. She earned an A.S. from Erie Community College in Williamsville, NY in 1978. She is also a 1980 graduate of the New York Bar Association Paralegal Certification Program. She brings 27 years of legal experience to her role. Kathy is a licensed Title Agent in the state of Florida. While her experience in the area of Real Estate law is extensive, Kathy is also skilled and experienced in Estate Planning and Administration.
SUPPORT STAFF
April Barza - Administrative Assistant to Joe B. Cox, Esq.
April is from Tampa Florida, but comes to Cox & Nici by way of Seattle, WA. She has over 7 years of experience as a Legal Assistant.
Mari Hash - Receptionist
Mari came to Cox & Nici by from West Virginia where she earned her B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Charleston, WV. Mari retired to Naples after serving her community for 23 years as a Teacher and Teen Parent Coordinator. The West Virginia House of Delegates recognized her for her work as a Teen Parent Coordinator.
LaVon Mattson – Legal Assistant
LaVon, a native of North Dakota, came to Cox & Nici in 2006 with over 20 years of administrative experience. She studied Voice and Music Education at Bethel College in St. Paul. MN and Viterbo College in LaCrosse, WI. LaVon shares her business skills with Cox & Nici and her musical skills with the community as the Organist for East Naples United Methodist Church and Accompanist for the Naples Music club and various other music groups.
Kristie Paar – Legal Assistant to James R. Nici, Esq. and Joe B. Cox, Esq.
Kristie, a native of Pennsylvania, is a 2007 graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University with a B.S. in Legal Studies. She comes to Cox & Nici with a strong interest in pursuing a career in Wills, Trusts, and Estates. Kristie brings over 6 years of customer service experience to the firm as well.
