For Shaunte, helping people has always been at the heart of her work.
Before joining the Clerk’s Office, she spent five years working with children with special needs in the local school district. The work was meaningful, but she found herself looking for a new career path.
“I was looking for a change,” Shaunte says. “This was the type of field I always wanted to get into.”
Two years later, she found more than just a new job. In the Family division, Shaunte has discovered a role where compassion, teamwork, and service come together every day.
Deep Roots in St. Johns County
Shaunte has called St. Johns County home her entire life. Originally from Elkton, she grew up surrounded by traditions and community events unique to the area. One of her favorite childhood memories is attending the Potato and Cabbage Festival.
Now living in St. Augustine with her family, she still appreciates the sense of community she experienced growing up.
“It is a nice place to raise a family, live, and work here,” she says.
Learning the Many Sides of Family Court
In the Family division, she has supported juvenile cases involving adoptions, truancy, delinquency, and other matters affecting children and families.
“Adoptions are the best part,” she says. “They have so many family and friends at the final hearing,” she says. “It’s overwhelming seeing all the support.”
Shaunte describes herself as the division’s “greeter,” often serving as the first point of contact for customers who walk through the door.
Whether someone is filing documents for a new case, seeking information about child support, or bringing evidence for an upcoming hearing, Shaunte helps guide them in the right direction. If a customer’s issue requires specialized assistance, she connects them with the appropriate team member.
Working closely with families facing challenges also serves as a reminder that behind every case file is a family navigating a difficult chapter in their lives.
“It can be heart breaking,” she says. “Some of these parents are doing all they can.”
Finding Strength in Teamwork
One of the things Shaunte values most about her role is the support she receives. Family Court often requires flexibility, especially when deputy clerks step in to cover hearings, assist customers, or support one another.
“We’re an awesome team,” Shaunte says. “If one of us has to run out for a second, we cover each other,” she says.
This support extends beyond daily responsibilities. From celebrations and special events to simply checking in on one another, Shaunte says the Family division really does have a family-like atmosphere.
“It feels like family,” she says. “It makes me feel like I have a purpose.”
Building a Future
Outside of work, Shaunte stays busy with her three sons. Her youngest recently started playing soccer and has quickly become obsessed.
When she finds a quiet moment for herself, Shaunte turns to a lifelong passion: writing poetry. She has been writing since she was a little girl and still enjoys putting thoughts into words.
When inspiration strikes “I can write a poem just like that within minutes,” she says.
Though she has only been with the Clerk’s Office for two years, Shaunte already sees a future for herself here. Between the support of her coworkers, the meaningful nature of the work, and the opportunity to help people during important moments in their lives, she has found something lasting.
“This definitely feels like a career for me,” she says.
