Tonya Baynes
Tonya Baynes is an accomplished Records Specialist at Chamberlain Hrdlicka in Atlanta, Georgia, with over 20 years of experience in the legal industry. She earned her Paralegal Certificate from Keiser University in Melbourne, Florida, and furthered her education with an Associate of Arts in Business Administration from American InterContinental University, where she consistently achieved high academic standing. Throughout her career, Tonya has demonstrated expertise in managing complex legal records, electronic filing, and supporting attorneys and paralegals with precise, organized documentation.
Tonya began her career at Bryan Cave, where she spent 15 years overseeing all aspects of the records department, managing on-site and off-site files, and supporting specialized legal teams in areas such as Business and Finance, Bankruptcy, and Trusts and Estates. She later held leadership roles at NOVA Office Strategies before joining Chamberlain Hrdlicka in 2018. In her current role, she ensures that litigation teams have seamless access to the records and information they need, combining meticulous attention to detail with strong interpersonal skills.
Outside of her legal career, Tonya is a talented entrepreneur and jewelry designer, creating unique handmade pieces showcased under her brand, BraceletsbyTonya. Her dedication to precision, creativity, and quality in her personal projects mirrors the same commitment she brings to her professional work. Tonya values honesty, authenticity, and a strong work ethic, principles that guide both her career and personal endeavors, helping her build lasting relationships and maintain excellence in all she undertakes.
• Keiser University - Paralegal Certificate, Law
• American InterContinental University - AA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous growth. My journey in legal work began long before electronic accessibility was a focus; I earned my paralegal certificate in 1989, eager to make my mark in Florida. Relocating to Atlanta taught me that experience often outweighs credentials, and finding my place wasn’t easy. Over the years, I built a 16-year career in legal records, and when I faced a layoff, I turned that setback into an opportunity to grow earning an associate’s degree in business and joining a law firm where I’ve proudly contributed for the past seven years. Today, I support litigation attorneys by managing digital records, electronic filings, and organizing client documents, ensuring attorneys and paralegals have what they need at their fingertips. Recently, I was given the long-awaited opportunity to gain hands-on paralegal experience with the litigation team, reinforcing that while timing isn’t always within our control, persistence, dedication, and a willingness to embrace new challenges are the keys to long-term success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering the legal industry to never give up, even when the path isn’t straightforward. Setbacks are inevitable, but each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay committed, keep showing up, and continuously build your skills so you’re ready when opportunities arise. Equally important, make time for the things that bring you joy they provide balance, resilience, and the energy needed to thrive in a demanding field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in the legal field today include navigating an environment where hands-on experience often outweighs formal credentials, adapting to rapidly evolving technology such as electronic filing and digital records management, and balancing career growth with personal responsibilities. At the same time, these challenges present significant opportunities: those who are adaptable, persistent, and willing to continually expand their practical skills can advance in meaningful ways. For me, each obstacle from layoffs to shifting workplace demands has been a chance to grow, strengthen resilience, and position myself for new opportunities in paralegal work, proving that determination and hands-on experience are invaluable in this field.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are honesty, authenticity, and a strong work ethic. I strive to be genuine and dependable, whether supporting attorneys with precise legal filings or creating handmade jewelry and crafts for my community. I also deeply value respecting others’ time and contributions, bringing the same care and attention to detail to every project I take on. These principles help me stay grounded, balanced, and connected to the people and work that matter most.