Julia Kirby Stage

Julia Kirby Stage is a dedicated family law attorney at Essex Richards in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her practice focuses on separation, divorce, equitable distribution, child custody and support, alimony, and marital agreements. Julia is known for her client-first approach, guiding individuals through emotionally challenging legal matters with care, clarity, and determination.

Julia earned her J.D. from Charlotte School of Law in 2012 and her B.A. from Clemson University in 2007, graduating with honors.

Julia found her passion for family law while clerking for a District Court Judge in Mecklenburg County, and she’s been focused on this work ever since. Today, she’s known as a strong, results-driven family law attorney who actively educates clients at every stage of the process so they can make confident, informed decisions. Combining strategic advocacy with genuine empathy, Julia strives to achieve favorable outcomes in matters like divorce, custody, and support while minimizing unnecessary conflict and stress for families.

Julia’s experience includes collaborative divorce, mediation, postseparation support, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and alternative dispute resolution. She is consistently recognized in her field, earning honors such as Legal Elite (2016, 2021, 2022) and Super Lawyers Rising Star in Family Law (2018–2024). She was also inducted into the NC Pro Bono Honor Society in 2020 and received multiple Commitment to Justice Awards from Safe Alliance.

Julia Kirby Stage is a member of the North Carolina Bar Association, Mecklenburg County Bar, Women Lawyers of Charlotte, and the American Bar Association. She provides pro bono legal representation for victims of domestic violence through Safe Alliance and volunteers with the Council for Children’s Rights, advocating for child safety and well-being. Julia brings skill, integrity, and compassion to her practice, making her a trusted advocate for families across North Carolina.

Law Office Affiliations

• Associate, Essex Richards, P.A.
• Member, North Carolina Bar Association
• Member, Mecklenburg County Bar
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Women Lawyers of Charlotte

Licensed State

• North Carolina

Education

• Charlotte School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Clemson University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges