Stetson Law Graduate Kate McQuagge Joins Henderson Franklin

Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is pleased to announce that Kate McQuagge has joined the firm as an associate in its Divorce, Marital and Family Law Department. A Fort Myers native and graduate of Fort Myers High School, McQuagge returns home to begin her legal career serving individuals and families in Southwest Florida.

McQuagge assists clients with divorce and other family law matters. Her interest in family law grew through personal experience and during law school, where she gained hands-on experience working directly with clients facing family-related legal issues. She approaches her work with compassion, careful preparation and a focus on clear communication.

“Growing up in Fort Myers, it is incredibly meaningful to begin my legal career in the community that shaped me,” said McQuagge. “Family law allows me to help people through some of the most difficult transitions in their lives. I am grateful to join Henderson Franklin and learn from attorneys who have a long history of serving Southwest Florida families.”

“I have known Kate since she was young. She grew up across the street from me,” said Christina “Christy” O’Brien, chair of Henderson Franklin’s Family Law Department. “To now have the opportunity to mentor her as she begins her career is incredibly special. I have watched Kate grow into a thoughtful, hardworking young woman, and I am excited to see the lawyer she will become.”

While attending Stetson University College of Law, McQuagge worked as a legal assistant with a Tampa family law firm. In that role, she helped draft court documents, organize financial and personal records for litigation, and communicated with clients about their cases. McQuagge also served as a volunteer Guardian ad Litem, advocating for children and their best interests in court proceedings.

McQuagge earned her Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in 2026, where she received an Academic Excellence Merit-Based Scholarship. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, cum laude, from Florida State University in 2023, where she was a Bright Futures Scholarship recipient and participated in the Women in Pre-Law Society.

McQuagge is admitted to The Florida Bar and is based in Henderson Franklin’s Fort Myers office. She may be reached at kate.mcquagge@henlaw.com.