Leon was born and raised in Charleston and has always believed Charleston County is a special place to live and raise a family.  He lives in West Ashley with his wife Anne and their three children; Clara Anne, Emmanuel and Emma. Leon attended Orange Grove Elementary School, Wallace Middle School and Middleton High School (Class of 1984).  He graduated from the College of Charleston in 1988 and received his law degree from the University of South Carolina in 1992. Leon served as local prosecutor from 1993-2000.  He founded the Stavrinakis Law Firm in 1996.

Anne, also a native Charlestonian, is the daughter of Clara Holland Heinsohn and the late Richard Heinsohn. She attended Mason Prep, Bishop England and graduated from Ashley Hall School. Anne has both undergraduate and master's degrees in education from the College of Charleston.

Leon served proudly and effectively on Charleston County Council for eight years.  In an historic event, he was elected Chairman of Council while in the minority party.  Leon has constantly worked across party lines to improve planning and control growth, pass property tax reform and to fight crime and drugs in our community. Leon has never voted for an income or property tax increase and has made a name for himself with his effective, bi-partisan leadership style. 

Leon was taught by his loving parents the value of hard work and the importance of family and faith while growing up.  Today, Leon is able to carry on those strong values instilled in him with his own family.  Leon and Anne were married in 2001. They maintain close, daily contact with their respective families all of whom live in the Charleston area. Leon often reflects with those around him how proud he is of his family, church and community life, and how his experiences and teachings have allowed him to be a better father, husband and public representative.