Pace Mawhinney was born in Tallahassee and is a third-generation resident of Leon County. He graduated cum laude from Florida State University with degrees in criminology and English literature. While attending school, Pace worked for the State Attorney's Office for the 2nd Judicial Circuit, assisting with the prosecution of felony matters. Pace continued his studies at Florida State University College of Law. During this time, Pace clerked for the Department of Business & Professional Regulation and represented the State of Florida on licensure matters before the Division of Administrative Hearings.

Upon graduation, Pace began his practice representing insurance companies and their insureds with a focus on premises liability and trucking accident litigation. Pace has worked for some of the largest insurance defense firms with offices throughout the country handling liability, property, insurance coverage, and construction defect claims. He is licensed to practice in Florida and the United States District Courts for the Northern, Middle, and Southern Districts.

In his free time, Pace enjoys playing guitar, cheering on the Seminoles, and traveling with his daughters.