Danielle Sonntag
Danielle Sonntag is the Director of Finance and Administration at Lieser Skaff. She oversees the day-to-day operations and ensures that the firm provides high-caliber customer service to its clients. Danielle attended Florida State University where she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Danielle started at Lieser Skaff in 2014 and was quickly promoted to the role of Office Administrator and then to the Director of Finance and Administration role.
Danielle is responsible for accounts payable/receivable, bookkeeping, monthly billing, collections, marketing, and special projects. She also spearheads human resources and firm management. Danielle takes great pleasure in ensuring that the firm runs smoothly and that each client receives the attention and responsiveness they deserve.
Francesca Giambanco
Francesca Giambanco is the Assistant Office Administrator at Lieser Skaff. She joined the firm in January of 2018 as a Legal Assistant and transitioned into the Assistant Office Administrator role in May of 2021. Francesca previously worked as a Legal Assistant and a Trial Assistant for the Solicitor General in Atlanta, Georgia.
She is currently responsible for various administrative services at the firm, including client management, employee management and providing overall support to our staff. She ensures the LS team is always providing excellent customer service to all of our clients and ensures the firm runs smoothly each and every day.
Francesca graduated from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Affairs concentrating in Diplomatic and International Service.
She is fluent in English, Spanish and Italian.
Katie Kennedy
Katie Kennedy is a Lieser Skaff Paralegal and brings over 10 years of legal experience to the firm. Her background includes legal support for commercial and civil litigation. Katie plays a key role in delivering superior legal services to our clients while working with legal assistants and attorneys in a multifaceted capacity.
Katie graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology, and Charleston Southern University with a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice, Summa Cum Laude. She is a Certified Paralegal (CP) and a Florida Registered Paralegal (FRP). She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Tampa Bay Paralegal Association and has done so for several years.
Shakena Lester
Shakena Lester is a Lieser Skaff Paralegal and Executive Assistant to Managing Partner, Jeff Lieser. She brings over 13 years of legal experience to the firm with a background in civil litigation. Shakena prides herself in providing an excellent service to our clients all while assisting Attorney Lieser with various business and operational aspects.
Shakena graduated Summa Cum Laude from Hillsborough Community College with an Associate of Science Degree in Paralegal Studies, and was a member of Lambda Epsilon Chi, the National Honor Society in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies.
Sarah Peck
Sarah Peck joined Lieser Skaff in 2024. Prior to joining the firm, she acquired valuable legal experience working as a paralegal at an accomplished family law firm in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts.
After joining Lieser Skaff as an Administrative Coordinator, Sarah’s contributions led to her promotion as a Legal Assistant. She now plays a key role in supporting the firm’s attorneys and paralegals, ensuring efficient and thorough case management.
Sarah graduated with honors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing.
Chrys Welsh
With over 20 years of managerial experience and 15 years in legal office management, Chrys Welsh is a vital asset to the Lieser Skaff support team.
Chrys excels in streamlining legal operations, managing complex litigation, and ensuring efficient case management. Her experience includes developing and implementing standard operating procedures, managing billing and financial aspects, and providing comprehensive support to attorneys and clients. In addition to her extensive legal background, Chrys’ military service has instilled strong organizational and leadership skills, enabling her to manage diverse responsibilities effectively.
Chrys holds an A.A. in Liberal Arts from Hillsborough Community College and is pursuing an A.S. in Legal Assisting. She is a Registered Notary (RON Certified), a Loan Signing Agent, and is conversational in Spanish. Her diverse experience and dedication to efficiency make her a valuable asset to the Lieser Skaff team.