Henderson Franklin welcomes two new attorneys

Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt announced the addition of Lisa Goddy to its Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning Department and Sarah Oquendo has joined the firm as a stockholder in the Divorce, Marital & Family Law Department.

As a stockholder based in the firm’s Bonita Springs office, Goddy brings more than 20 years of experience in estate planning, probate and trust administration, elder law, guardianship, and special needs planning. Richard Mancini, co-chair of the firm’s Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning Department shares,

“Lisa brings a level of care, experience, and focus that immediately elevates the services we offer. Her leadership in elder law and special needs planning adds tremendous value to our growing Bonita Springs office and Henderson Franklin’s estate planning team.”

Goddy works closely with individuals, families, and business owners to create tailored strategies that reflect their values, financial goals, and long-term vision. Her practice spans the full spectrum of estate planning, including tax-sensitive structures, business succession plans, multigenerational wealth transfers, and planning for loved ones with additional needs.

“Estate planning is an opportunity to bring peace of mind and clarity to families,” Goddy shared. “Whether it is guiding parents through planning for a child with special needs or helping business owners protect their legacy, my role is to offer practical advice with compassion and foresight. I am honored to join a firm with such deep roots in the community.”

A frequent speaker and educator, Goddy has led workshops for the STARability Foundation, Collier County Bar Association, and other community groups. She is a member of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys (AFELA) and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA).

Goddy earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Indianapolis and her law degree from the University of Dayton School of Law. She is admitted to practice in Florida and Pennsylvania.

Based in the firm’s Naples office, Oquendo brings nearly two decades of experience helping individuals and families navigate complex family law matters across Southwest Florida.

Oquendo’s practice encompasses divorce, child custody, support, dependency, relocation, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, as well as family law appeals. She is also a certified Guardian ad Litem in both family and dependency matters. Oquendo shares,

“Joining Henderson Franklin is a meaningful step in my career. The firm’s deep roots in Southwest Florida and its longstanding commitment to client service align with my values. I’m honored to join such a respected team and continue advocating for families with empathy and purpose.”

Oquendo began her legal career in public service, representing children through the Guardian ad Litem Program and providing legal aid to low-income families. Her work has earned her the Excellence in Advocacy Award from the Guardian ad Litem Program, Gulfshore Business’ “Rising Star” distinction, and Naples Illustrated’s 2024 “Top Lawyer” honor.

Oquendo will be mentored by Beth Vogelsang, a fellow stockholder in the firm’s Family Law Department, who shares:

“Sarah is a thoughtful, highly skilled advocate whose work reflects a deep commitment to protecting children and helping families transition with compassion and strength. Her strength lies in combining legal skill with a keen awareness of what families need most, a rare and deeply valued quality in our practice. I’m thrilled to welcome her to our Naples team.”

Oquendo is admitted to practice in Florida and is actively involved in the legal community, including memberships in the Family Law Sections of the Florida Bar, Lee and Collier County Bar Associations, and the Collier County Women’s Bar Association. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Gift of Adoption.

Oquendo received her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and her law degree from Stetson University College of Law.