Javier Centonzio

J.D. · LL.M. · VA-Accredited Attorney · U.S. Marine Corps & Kansas Army National Guard Veteran

A decorated veterans’ disability advocate who fought for our nation in uniform before devoting his legal career to fighting for those who served — exclusively, without exception.

Super Lawyers Rising Star 2018–2022
The Veterans Consortium VIP Honoree 2019
TVC Chairman’s Award 2019
Licensed in FL · DC · KS · MO · TX
CAVC Admitted
U.S. Federal Circuit Admitted

About Javier

A Veteran Who Became a Lawyer — for Veterans

Javier A. Centonzio is the Managing Partner of Girard & Centonzio Veterans Disability Lawyers L.L.C., a nationally focused law firm that represents veterans, surviving spouses, and dependent children in VA disability compensation claims and appeals before the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC), and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Veterans’ disability law is not one of the firm’s practice areas — it is the only practice area.

Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Javier was raised in the Kansas City area by his mother. He left school in the tenth grade, earned his GED through Job Corps, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served as an Infantryman. Years later, motivated by both patriotism and personal mission, he joined the Kansas Army National Guard and deployed to Iraq in 2006.

“In 2006, during my deployment to Iraq, I lost one of my closest friends and fellow Marines, Sgt. Jessie Davila, to a roadside bomb. That loss — and the unfinished promise I made to honor his memory and protect the people he fought alongside — is what led me to law school and to this work.”
— Javier A. Centonzio, Esq.

The trajectory from a 10th-grade dropout, to Marine Corps Infantryman, to locomotive engineer at Union Pacific Railroad, to Ivy-caliber legal advocate before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims is the story behind every case Javier takes. He brings to each client not just a command of the law but an intimate understanding of what military service asks of a person — and what the VA system too often fails to give back.

Education

Academic Foundation Built Around Service

After returning from Iraq, Javier enrolled at Park University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science — completing his degree in approximately two years while simultaneously building veterans’ support infrastructure at the university. During his time at Park, he helped secure a $100,000 “Success for Veterans Award” from the American Council on Education and the Walmart Foundation to advance educational programs for transitioning service members.

He then attended Stetson University College of Law in Florida, earning both his Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Elder Law. At Stetson, he interned with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program, participated in the Veterans Law Clinic, co-founded the Veterans Law Institute (which provides pro bono legal services to Tampa-area veterans), and established the Sgt. Jessie Davila Memorial Veterans Scholarship to support future law students who have served.

Undergraduate

B.A., Political Science
Park University

Law Degree

J.D.
Stetson University College of Law, 2012

Graduate Law

LL.M., Elder Law
Stetson University College of Law

Federal Clerkship

Law Clerk, Hon. Robert N. Davis
U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims

Career

From the CAVC Bench to the Veterans He Serves

After law school, Javier moved to Washington, D.C. to serve as a Federal Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable Robert N. Davis at the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims — the highest court dedicated exclusively to veterans’ law. The clerkship sharpened his statutory interpretation and exposed him to the full spectrum of advocacy before the court, giving him a perspective on veterans law that few practitioners possess.

2012 – 2014
Federal Judicial Law Clerk
U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims · Washington, D.C.
Clerked for Hon. Robert N. Davis, gaining direct insight into CAVC decisional standards and appellate advocacy across all categories of veterans’ benefits law.
2014 – 2016
Veterans Disability Attorney / Elder Law Attorney
Weylie Centonzio, PLLC
Private practice combining VA disability claims and elder law. Founded the Veterans Advocacy Legal Operational Resource (VALOR) program during this period.
2016 – 2018
Of Counsel
Kendall Law Group LLC · Kansas City, MO
Handled a limited number of personal injury matters at the request of veteran clients seeking highly personalized representation.
2018 – 2024
Founder & Managing Attorney
Centonzio Law, PLLC (VetsRep) · Largo, FL · Kansas City, MO · Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Built and led a multi-state veterans’ disability law firm exclusively focused on VA claims and appeals, representing hundreds of veterans nationwide.
November 2024 – Present
Managing Partner
Girard & Centonzio Veterans Disability Lawyers L.L.C. · Lawrence, KS
Co-leads the merged firm formed by combining Centonzio Law, PLLC with ABS Legal Advocates, P.A. (founded 2000 by Virginia A. Girard), bringing more than 25 combined years of VA disability law experience under one roof.

Practice Areas

Veterans’ Disability — Nothing Else

Girard & Centonzio does not file original claims — that work is referred to VSOs such as the DAV, VFW, and American Legion, who handle it at no cost. The firm focuses exclusively on appeals and complex claims where legal expertise and federal court experience make a measurable difference. The firm takes cases on a contingency fee basis: no fee unless the appeal is won.

Javier’s substantive focus areas include:

PTSD & Mental Health
TDIU
Agent Orange
Camp Lejeune
Gulf War Syndrome
Military Sexual Trauma (MST)
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Sleep Disorders
Special Monthly Compensation
Secondary Service Connection
Surviving Spouse & Dependent Claims
CAVC Appeals

Licensure & Admissions

Bar Admissions & Accreditation

State Bar — Florida

Admitted 2012

State Bar — District of Columbia

Admitted

State Bar — Kansas

Admitted

State Bar — Missouri

Admitted

State Bar — Texas

Admitted

Federal Court — CAVC

U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims

Federal Court — Federal Circuit

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit

VA Accreditation

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Accredited Attorney

Recognition

Awards & Honors

Super Lawyers “Rising Star” — 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 (Military & Veterans Law, Florida). Peer-nominated recognition for top attorneys under 40 or within 10 years of practice.
The Veterans Consortium Volunteer Inspiring Pro Bono (VIP) Honoree — October 2019. Recognized for outstanding pro bono service, particularly for Spanish-speaking and Puerto Rican veterans navigating the CAVC.
The Veterans Consortium Chairman’s Award — November 2019. Presented at TVC’s annual Pro Bono Mission Partner Reception.

Professional & Community

Memberships, Boards & Affiliations

National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates (NOVA) — Active Member
U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims Bar Association — Member
The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program — Volunteer Attorney, National Volunteer Corps
Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Foundation (KCMBF) — Board Member; Vice-Chair, Military Matters Program
University of Kansas Veterans Law Clinic — Advisory Board Member
Bay Pines Foundation, Inc. (partner of Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, FL) — Board Member
Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch — Board Member
Florida Bar, Elder Law Section, Veterans Benefits Committee — Chair (2016–2019)
Florida Bar, Military Affairs Committee — Member (2015–2019)
Marine Corps League — Life Member
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) — Life Member
The American Legion — Life Member

Giving Back

Scholarships & Philanthropy

Javier has personally established three scholarships in support of veterans in higher education, and each year organizes the Sgt. Jessie Davila Memorial Classic golf tournament to fund the scholarship in his fallen friend’s name.

Sgt. Jessie Davila Memorial Veterans Scholarship — Stetson University College of Law. Created in honor of Javier’s fellow Marine killed in Iraq in 2006; supports veterans pursuing a law degree.
Dr. Ron Brecke Veterans Scholarship — Park University. Supports veterans continuing their undergraduate education.
Centonzio Family Military and Veteran Scholarship — University of Kansas. Established to support KU student veterans.

Language & Personal

Fluent in Spanish · Rooted in Service

Javier is fully fluent in Spanish and is one of a small number of Spanish-speaking attorneys who regularly practices before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. This capability is particularly significant for Puerto Rican veterans and other Spanish-speaking claimants who face compounded barriers — language among them — in accessing the benefits they earned. The Veterans Consortium specifically noted Javier’s willingness to take emergency-placement Spanish-language cases as critical to its mission.

Outside the office, Javier lives in the Kansas City area with his wife and four children. He is an avid golfer, enjoys travel and documentaries, and remains involved in veteran and military community organizations throughout the region.

Aminah Holloway

Client Relations Specialist

Aminah Holloway serves as a Client Relations Specialist at Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, bringing her experience as a U.S. Army veteran, social worker, and advocate into every interaction with the veteran community. With a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree and over 10 years of customer service and client support experience, Aminah is committed to ensuring veterans feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their journey.

During her time in the U.S. Army, Aminah served as a Supply Specialist working in brigade logistics, where she developed strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to support mission readiness in high-pressure environments. Her military experience continues to shape her dedication to serving fellow veterans with empathy, professionalism, and understanding.

Aminah’s professional background includes extensive experience in veteran support services, client relations, intake coordination, crisis intervention, peer support, and behavioral health services. She has worked closely with veterans, individuals in crisis, and diverse populations, providing compassionate communication, resource coordination, and emotional support during difficult and often life-changing situations.

Known for her calm demeanor, strong communication skills, and client-centered approach, Aminah is passionate about advocating for veterans and helping them navigate services with confidence and dignity. Her combined experience in military service, social work, and customer support allows her to connect with clients in a meaningful and supportive way while fostering trust and positive relationships.

Matthew Jefferson

Client Relations Supervisor

Matthew Jefferson is a proud Houston, Texas native whose roots have shaped his resilience, compassion, and commitment to service. His personal story is deeply influenced by his late father, a Navy Veteran who once had to navigate a challenging and often overwhelming process just to access the services he needed to survive. Watching his father push through those obstacles left a lasting impression on Matthew, giving him a firsthand understanding of how vital support, clarity, and advocacy are for Veterans and their families.

Because of this, Matthew’s work is more than a career path — it is a continuation of his father’s legacy. He carries a genuine sense of purpose into every role he steps into, driven by the desire to make the journey easier for others than it was for his family. His background has instilled in him a deep respect for those who serve and a strong motivation to contribute meaningfully wherever he can.

Matthew looks forward to growing with the company and is genuinely excited to begin this new chapter surrounded by great, like‑minded individuals. He values teamwork, integrity, and shared mission, and he brings a positive, forward‑thinking energy to every environment he joins. For Matthew, this new journey represents both personal growth and an opportunity to honor where he comes from while helping others move forward with confidence and support.

Edward Jenkins

Client Relations Specialist

With over a decade of experience in customer service, Edward, a proud Navy veteran, brings a strong track record of delivering exceptional support with empathy, efficiency, and integrity. Currently serving at Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, he specializes in assisting veterans with care, ensuring each individual receives the attention, respect, and guidance they deserve.

Throughout his career, Edward has developed expertise in client relations, problem resolution, and navigating complex service environments. His approach is grounded in active listening, clear communication, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of the veteran community. He is known for building trust quickly and advocating effectively on behalf of clients.

Driven by a genuine commitment to those who have served, Edward takes pride in contributing to a mission that makes a meaningful difference in veterans’ lives. His professionalism, compassion, and dedication consistently enhance the customer experience and reflect the core values of service and respect.

Brianna Mayle

Clinical Case Review Coordinator

Brianna serves as a Clinical Case Review Coordinator, supporting the integrity and accuracy of the medical case review process for veterans. In this role, she evaluates case pathways, medical expert correspondence, and documentation alignment to ensure consistency, clarity, and quality across every case.

With more than ten years of experience in healthcare operations, Brianna brings a strong background in documentation review, compliance, and process-driven workflows. She is committed to serving the veteran community and approaches her work with respect, precision, and a deep sense of responsibility. She understands that each case represents a veteran’s story and takes pride in supporting a process grounded in accuracy, fairness, and trust.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and remains focused on continued growth while contributing to meaningful, mission-driven work in support of those who have served.

Latifah “Jo” Johnson

Junior Client Relations Specialist

Latifah “Jo” Johnson is a seasoned customer service professional with more than 15 years of experience dedicated to delivering exceptional client support and building trusted relationships. Known for her professionalism, empathy, and strong communication skills, Jo has built a career centered on service, advocacy, and meaningful human connection.

Currently serving as a Junior Customer Relations Specialist at Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, Jo is committed to supporting veterans as they navigate the medical consulting process. She understands that each veteran’s journey is unique and often complex, and she approaches every interaction with patience, respect, and compassion. Her role allows her to combine her extensive customer service background with her passion for helping those who have served our country.

Jo is recognized for her ability to listen attentively, resolve concerns efficiently, and ensure veterans feel informed and supported every step of the way. Guided by integrity and a genuine desire to make a difference, she remains dedicated to advocating for veterans and delivering service that reflects gratitude for their sacrifice and commitment.

Sarah

Customer Relations Specialist

Sarah is a Customer Relations Specialist at Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting who is passionate about creating a smooth, respectful, and Veteran-first experience. She brings a diverse background in financial services, municipal public service, and emergency medical response, giving her a unique blend of professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine compassion.

Known for her clear communication and strong problem-solving skills, Sarah takes the time to explain each step of the process in a way that helps Veterans feel comfortable, informed, and confident about what comes next. With close personal ties to the military community, her husband and his family are Veterans, along with several of her cousins, she deeply values the sacrifices made by those who have served.

Sarah is proud to support Veterans with care, consistency, and respect, and is dedicated to making sure every Veteran feels heard, supported, and well cared for from the very first conversation to the final step.

Dyani Robinson

Customer Relations Department Manager

Dyani Robinson serves as the Customer Relations Department Manager at Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, bringing her U.S. Air Force experience, discipline, and deep-rooted commitment to the veteran community into every aspect of her leadership. As a disabled veteran, Dyani understands the importance of being heard, respected, and supported — and she carries that understanding into the way she leads her department and interacts with every client.

Dyani served in the Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) in Mobility, supporting Airmen preparing for deployment during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. That experience strengthened her ability to lead with structure, urgency, and care — ensuring people feel prepared, supported, and confident during high-stakes moments.

Dyani’s professional background spans veteran services, federal programs, client advocacy, and high-volume case management across healthcare, education, and government sectors. She is known for her steady professionalism, exceptional communication skills, and ability to bring clarity and reassurance to complex situations. Her work supporting military families and diverse veteran populations has shaped her into a leader who is both mission-driven and deeply empathetic.

In her role as Customer Relations Department Manager, Dyani is responsible for setting the standard for communication excellence, operational consistency, and the overall client experience. She leads with a veteran-first mindset — ensuring every interaction is handled with integrity, accuracy, and respect. Dyani takes pride in fostering a department culture where service, accountability, and attention to detail are at the forefront.

For Dyani, this role is more than management — it is a continuation of her service. She is dedicated to creating an environment where veterans feel valued, supported, and confident throughout their experience with Prestige. Her leadership reflects both the strength of her military foundation and her genuine passion for serving those who have served.

Danielle McClaskey

Client Relations Specialist U.S. Navy Veteran

In her active-duty service in the United States Navy, Danielle undertook a variety of responsibilities, ranging from essential administrative duties to providing crucial medical care. Her multifaceted contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing her fellow service members’ operational effectiveness and well-being.

As a disabled veteran, she developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by her fellow service members. Now, in her civilian role, Danielle is a valued member of the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team, where she continues to leverage her extensive background and educational achievements to provide exceptional support to veterans.

LETICIA

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Leticia has been in the medical field for nearly 14 years. She has always had a passion for medicine and caring for her community. Leticia has spent the last 4 years caring for veterans and first responders with alcohol and substance abuse in a medical rehabilitation setting whilst continuing her education working towards a degree in software development.

Someday she hopes to develop medical software that further enhances the patient’s experience in medical care. Leticia has a deep respect and love for those who have served as she comes from a family of law enforcement and military veterans.

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran. He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

JULIE PEREIRA:

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

During her Active-Duty time in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, Julie provided medical administration
and patient care services in the field, the hospital, and base medical office settings. This military medical and
administrative background has given Julie the hands-on experience and extensive knowledge necessary to
provide unparalleled service to her fellow Veterans through the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Julie’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Human Services and a pre-nursing associate in arts and science.

Julie has been inspired by her firsthand knowledge of navigating the VA Benefits process. She has dedicated
most of her adult life to serving Veterans through her knowledge derived from her military and civilian medical
education and training.

JENNIFER JANUTA

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

During her Active-Duty service in the Army, Jennifer supported various research efforts centered on combat casualty care and Soldier performance. Her military background gave her unique insights into veterans’ distinct challenges, ultimately inspiring her to join the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Jennifer’s educational achievements include a master’s in molecular biology from George Washington University and a master’s in data science from Texas Tech University. Jennifer wholeheartedly dedicates herself to utilizing her knowledge and expertise gained from 15 years of healthcare experience to impact the well-being of those who have served positively.

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

LEAH BUCHOLZ, PA-C

U.S ARMY VETERAN, MEDICAL EXPERT & FORMER C & P EXAMINER

Meet Leah, the founder, and leader of our organization. A combat veteran herself, she understands the unique challenges veterans face, making her mission about much more than running a successful business. It’s about the opportunity to provide a legacy of exceptional service for our heroes.

“It is essential to remember that there is no greater honor than caring for service members on the battlefield. Continuing to care for Veterans after separation is an opportunity that I have been afforded to extend that care in this new battlefield related to service-incurred disabilities.”

Her inspiration comes from years of military experience working alongside her fellow servicemembers, particularly key leaders who have influenced her journey, applying their wisdom to her path. She values her team deeply, most of whom are also disabled combat veterans, each member a trusted individual sharing her vision.

“Driven by passion and purpose, I aim to create a sustainable change that empowers veterans and future generations.”

Leah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From overcoming and living with her service-related disabilities to navigating work-life balance, she’s learned to face each hurdle head-on with resilience. Like many of her veteran brothers and sisters, her early background consisted of limited resources and opportunities. Her military service has helped shape her into a steadfast leader, offering relatable inspiration to others.

Join us in celebrating Leah, a compassionate leader, and resilient veteran, driving our mission to serve those who served our nation.