PRESIDENT’ S MESSAGE
PRESIDENT’ S MESSAGE
Honoring Public Service: Spotlight on Unsung Legal Heroes
Kanisha Taylor, Esq. Regional Managing Attorney Florida Rural Legal Services
The following is part of a continuing series by Jean Marie Middleton.
In keeping with my theme of“ Honoring Public Service,” and the Bar’ s mission of enhancing the public’ s understanding and awareness of the legal system, I am proud to highlight an unsung hero who exemplifies quiet dedication to service through law.
Meet Kanisha Taylor, Esq. Regional Managing Attorney, Florida Rural Legal Services Non-Profit Law Firm
“ I knew very young that I wanted to be an advocate for children and underserved communities.”
Staying True to Her Passion: Kanisha’ s Journey in Advocacy
From the start, Kanisha Taylor has lived out that calling. Her career reflects a steady commitment to public service, child advocacy, and ensuring that vulnerable populations have a voice in the legal system.
Kanisha’ s professional journey began right out of law school when she achieved what she calls her“ dream job” with the Florida Department of Children and Families( DCF). She served there from 2002 to 2005, and again from 2016 to 2023, working tirelessly to protect children and strengthen families. Between those years, she expanded her impact as Managing Attorney and Deputy General Counsel for the Guardian Ad Litem, serving from 2008 to 2017 and advocating for children during some of their most difficult moments.
Since 2023, Kanisha has served as the Regional Managing Attorney for Florida Rural Legal Services( FRLS), a nonprofit law firm dedicated to providing equal access to justice. In Palm Beach County, she is the local representative and“ face of FRLS,” guiding her team with compassion and purpose.
Kanisha oversees a staff of 22, including nine attorneys, two office managers, five paralegals, five legal secretaries, and an outreach coordinator. Together, they serve the community from offices in Riviera Beach and Belle Glade.
FRLS provides free legal services in areas such as housing, bankruptcy, foreclosure, consumer law, homeowners’ association disputes, family law, victims of crime, estate planning( wills, powers of attorney, advance directives), education, and public benefits including SSI and food assistance.
The Heart of the Work
When asked about the most difficult part of her role, Kanisha doesn’ t hesitate:
“ Hearing a man cry because he does not have the money to take care of his family, or hearing an adult say,‘ I can’ t feed my grandchildren,’ or simply,‘ I’ m hungry.’ My heart is serving our community, and it is very heartbreaking when we have done all we can do, but it is not enough.”
Her words capture both the gravity and humanity of practicing public interest law— where victories are meaningful, but unmet needs remain constant. For Kanisha, advocacy is not only about legal solutions but also about standing with people in their most vulnerable moments.
What makes FRLS Unique?
Some may ask why FRLS exists when the Legal Aid Society also serves Palm Beach County. Kanisha explains:“ The need to provide legal services for the indigent is so great that it takes several agencies; even still, there are not enough resources to support the needs.”
What sets FRLS apart is its holistic approach. Rather than limiting its focus to case outcomes, Kanisha has built a client support services team that helps connect clients with housing resources, mental health care, and other critical supports. This“ whole client” approach recognizes that legal struggles are often tied to broader life crises.
“ We try to address the whole client within our funding restrictions,” she notes— a philosophy shaped by her background in social work and her deep compassion for the people FRLS serves.
Education
Kanisha’ s academic journey prepared her uniquely for this work. She earned her bachelor’ s degree in political science with a minor in philosophy from Florida International University, followed by a master’ s degree in Social Work from Florida State University, and her Juris Doctor from Nova Southeastern University.
This blend of political science, philosophy, social work, and law has equipped her with a rare perspective: one that combines systemic understanding, empathy for human behavior, and practical legal expertise.
Legacy of Leadership in Law and Service Over the past 23 years, Kanisha has devoted her career to advocacy in Florida, serving children, families, and underserved communities with steadfast integrity. Her leadership is defined not by seeking recognition but by creating meaningful impact.
Kanisha embodies the truth that leadership does not always happen in the spotlight— yet its effects ripple throughout the community. Through her work, countless individuals have gained access to justice and the hope of stability.
Family Life
Outside of her professional commitments, Kanisha is the proud mother of five children. A Miami native, she credits her roots with shaping the values of resilience, faith, and service that guide her life and work.
And while much of her time is dedicated to others, she finds balance in her own interests. A fun fact: she enjoys kickboxing and, despite her visible leadership role, describes herself as something of an introvert.
Conclusion
Kanisha’ s journey is one of dedication, service, and compassion. From her earliest days, she knew she wanted to advocate for those whose voices often go unheard. Today, as Regional Managing Attorney of Florida Rural Legal Services in Palm Beach County, she continues to fulfill that mission with humility, strength, and a relentless commitment to justice.
Her story reminds us that the law is not only about statutes and courtrooms— it is about people, their struggles, and the hope for a more just world.
PBCBA BAR BULLETIN 1