Meet the Homestead Estate Lawyers Team
Homestead Estate Lawyers provides legal services for Probate & Estate Planning matters in Travis, Williamson and Bell Counties.
“Professionalism, leadership, and service are the cornerstones of my business.”
Highly-qualified Lawyer Specializing in Probate & Estate Planning in Central Texas.
About Elissa I. Henry
Founder & Managing Attorney
Harold L. Hardy II
Associate Attorney | Homestead Estate Lawyers
Nya Bryant
Associate Attorney
Empowering Clients to Get Through Difficult Times
Navigating the Legal Process with Compassion and Care
Elissa Henry has dedicated her career to navigating the legal process with compassion and care, understanding firsthand that difficult times require the proper legal guidance. As she celebrates 11 years of service as a “Big” in Big Brothers & Sisters of Central Texas, Elissa remains committed to serving others through cases involving Probate and estate planning. With high expectations from herself and clients alike—Elissa works diligently so everyone has an opportunity to achieve a positive outcome despite challenging circumstances. “My goal is to guide clients toward maintaining integrity and stability during a time that may seem like it will break them—financially, emotionally, and spiritually.” Elissa is fluent in Spanish, which enables her to serve clients from a wide variety of backgrounds.
ABOUT JHON ABINION
Jhon Rey Abinion serves as the Executive Assistant at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where he provides high-level administrative and operational support across the firm. With a strong background in accounting, business operations, and client service, Jhon helps ensure that daily processes run smoothly while supporting attorneys, staff, and clients with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail.
Jhon earned his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Our Lady of Fatima University – Antipolo Campus. Prior to joining Homestead, he worked as a Client Accounting Specialist and Bookkeeper, developing expertise in financial administration, workflow management, scheduling, project coordination, and client relations. Over more than five years with Homestead Estate Lawyers, Jhon has become a trusted member of the team, supporting the firm’s growth through strong operational leadership and a deep understanding of its day-to-day processes.
Outside of work, Jhon is an avid Pokémon fan who enjoys collecting toys, Pokémon merchandise, and anime figures. He especially enjoys tracking down rare collectibles—a hobby that reflects the same patience, persistence, and attention he brings to his work each day. He also loves traveling, particularly to destinations with breathtaking ocean views, where he can recharge and enjoy the simple experiences that inspire his sense of adventure.
“Nothing is impossible with a passionate and driven heart. With determination, perseverance, and the right mindset, every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth and success.”
— Jhon Rey Abinion
ABOUT NERY CONTRERAS
Nery Contreras serves as a Research Paralegal at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where he supports attorneys with legal research, case preparation, and client matters. Having worked alongside Attorney Elissa Henry for more than three and a half years, he brings a deep understanding of the firm’s approach to advocacy and client care.
Nery studied Business and Communications at The University of Texas at Austin and has worked alongside Elissa for more than three and a half years. During that time, he has served in various support roles, including Case Manager and Paralegal, gaining valuable experience in client advocacy, case management, and legal support.
One thing that sets Nery apart is that he’s ambidextrous—he writes with his left hand but throws and kicks with his right. Outside of work, he enjoys discovering new restaurants, traveling, and experiencing different cultures whenever he has the opportunity. Whether he’s trying a local favorite or exploring a new city, Nery enjoys experiences that broaden his perspective and introduce him to new people and ideas.
“Without commitment, you’ll never start, but more importantly, without consistency, you’ll never finish.” — Denzel Washington
— Nery Contreras
ABOUT XYRA BALDIVIA
Xyra Jane Baldivia serves as a Litigation Paralegal at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where she supports attorneys and clients in litigation discovery and creditor claims matters. With a strong legal foundation and a thoughtful approach to problem-solving, Xyra works on litigation discovery, creditor claims, and case preparation for complex legal matters.
Xyra earned her degree from the University of San Jose-Recoletos and previously served as a Court Decongestion Officer. Having worked with the firm since 2022, she has become a trusted member of the Homestead team, bringing valuable experience and insight to complex legal matters. Her legal background, commitment to service, and dedication to continuous growth allow her to provide dependable support to both clients and colleagues.
Beyond her legal work, Xyra serves as a Philippine Air Force Reservist, an experience that has strengthened her discipline, adaptability, and commitment to continuous learning. She also enjoys solving Sudoku puzzles and other mental challenges in her spare time, always looking for opportunities to sharpen her problem-solving skills. One of the things she values most is listening to people’s stories and life experiences, which has helped her develop a deeper appreciation for different perspectives and the unique journeys that shape each person.
“The more espresso, the less depresso.”
— Xyra Jane Baldivia
ABOUT BEULAH AUSTRIA
Beulah Austria serves as the Billing Specialist at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where she helps manage the firm’s billing operations and serves as a resource for clients with billing questions and account-related matters. With a strong commitment to accuracy, organization, and client service, she works diligently to ensure a smooth and positive experience for both clients and the legal team.
Beulah earned her Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the College of Mary Immaculate. Before joining Homestead Estate Lawyers, she worked in customer service, technical support, accounting assistance, and virtual support roles, giving her a broad understanding of both financial processes and client communication. That combination allows her to help clients navigate billing matters while ensuring the firm’s financial operations run smoothly.
A lesser-known fact about Beulah is that although she never formally learned how to swim, she can comfortably stay afloat in the water for nearly an hour. Friends and family often find it surprising, but she enjoys the challenge of figuring things out in her own way—a trait that has served her well both in life and in her work.
“Accuracy builds trust, and trust builds lasting relationships.”
— Beulah Austria
ABOUT JAMES CANAYA
James Carl Canaya serves as a Senior Paralegal at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where he assists attorneys and clients throughout the probate process. He helps coordinate case matters, manage documentation, and support families during important transitions, helping keep matters moving forward with clarity and consistency.
James earned his Bachelor of Business Teacher Education major in Business Technology from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Before joining Homestead, he worked as a legal assistant for a firm handling property damage and insurance matters, where he gained experience in case management, document preparation, and client communications. His background allows him to adapt quickly to new challenges while helping attorneys and clients navigate complex legal matters.
Outside of work, James enjoys traveling and seeking out experiences that push him beyond his comfort zone. One of his proudest accomplishments was summiting Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, receiving a traditional tattoo from renowned mambabatok Apo Whang-Od, and swimming alongside whale sharks. For James, every journey is a chance to learn something new, gain perspective, and create stories that stay with him long after the trip ends.
“Give your 100% best in every task or responsibility. No matter the outcome, you’ll know you gave it your all and have no regrets.”
— James Carl Canaya
ABOUT MICO VELASQUEZ
Mico Joshua F. Velasquez serves as an Intake and Outreach Specialist at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where he is often the first person prospective clients speak with. He is often the first voice prospective clients hear when reaching out to the firm. gathers essential information, and helps ensure each inquiry reaches the right member of the team. For many clients, Mico helps set the tone for their experience with the firm from the very first conversation.
Mico earned his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from National University and brings experience in both customer service and client intake. Before joining Homestead, he worked as a Process Executive, where he spent much of his day helping people navigate questions, concerns, and next steps. That experience taught him how to listen carefully, identify what matters most, and help people feel comfortable from the start.
Those who know Mico best know that he has a talent for finding great deals online—especially on things he wasn’t planning to buy. Whether it’s Facebook Marketplace or a shopping app, he enjoys browsing for interesting finds and convincing himself that adding them to his cart is perfectly reasonable. Outside of work, he enjoys driving, road trips, and discovering new places, proving that sometimes the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination.
“People may forget what you said, but they’ll remember how you made them feel.”
— Mico Joshua F. Velasquez
ABOUT JAYCEL RUIZ
Jaycel Ruiz serves as a Drafting Paralegal at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where she supports attorneys and clients in estate planning, probate, and civil litigation matters. She assists with document preparation, case management, and client communications, helping families navigate important legal decisions and ensuring matters move forward smoothly from start to finish.
Jaycel earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Cordilleras and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies from Saint Louis University. Before joining Homestead Estate Lawyers, she worked as both an Estate Planning Paralegal and Civil Litigation Paralegal, giving her experience supporting clients through a wide range of legal matters. Her background allows her to understand both the technical and personal aspects of the cases she helps manage each day.
Away from the office, Jaycel’s greatest joy is spending time with her husband and two children. Growing up with parents whose work often kept them away from home, she dreamed of one day having a close-knit family of her own. Today, she is grateful to be living that dream and cherishes every opportunity to create lasting memories with the people she loves most.
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” — Steve Jobs
— Jaycel Ruiz
ABOUT ALEXANDRA NASH
Alexandra “Lexi” Nash serves as the Operations Manager at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where she oversees many of the behind-the-scenes functions that keep the firm running smoothly. From client onboarding and welcome packages to workflow management and process improvement, she helps coordinate the systems and operations that support both the team and the client experience.
Before joining Homestead, Alexandra worked as a Personal Assistant, developing strong organizational and project coordination skills. In her role today, she focuses on administrative processes, event planning, marketing coordination, and client relations initiatives. Her work helps ensure that clients receive a seamless experience while providing the team with the support and structure needed to operate effectively.
Outside of work, Alexandra enjoys baking, cooking, and spending quality time with her family. As a third-generation only child, she values the close-knit relationships that have always been an important part of her life. Few people would guess that she can make balloon animals, a skill that has become one of her favorite ways to bring a little creativity and fun to any gathering.
“If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” — Frederick Douglass
— Alexandra Nash
ABOUT JASMYNE ADAMSON
Jasmyne Adamson serves as an Intern at Homestead Estate Lawyers, where she assists the team with administrative and support tasks while gaining hands-on experience in a professional legal environment. As a high school senior, she is eager to learn, contribute to the firm’s mission, and develop skills that will help prepare her for future academic and career opportunities.
Currently a member of the Class of 2027, Jasmyne brings enthusiasm, curiosity, and a strong work ethic to her role. Through her volunteer work with the Austin Diaper Bank and Central Texas Food Bank, as well as her involvement in track, DECA, PALs, and the National Honor Society, she has developed a passion for serving her community and helping others.
Outside of work, Jasmyne enjoys reading, running track, volunteering, and watching basketball. One thing that may surprise people is that she has been competing in AAU track events since she was 11 years old, an experience that has taught her discipline, perseverance, and the value of setting goals and working hard to achieve them.
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” — Aristotle
— Jasmyne Adamson
Don’t Let the Legal Process Consume You.
You Don’t Have To Navigate it Alone.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step with confidence.