I take a meticulous approach to dispute resolution to ensure that important details are not overlooked. Once I have a thorough understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of both sides of a case, I create a detailed strategy that puts my client in the best position to obtain a favorable outcome, either through negotiation or in the courtroom.
Known for her ability to effectively communicate with clients, adversaries and the court, Kristen Kelly advises clients in complex commercial and business disputes across several industries. Kristen has significant experience both prosecuting and defending lawsuits, and her practice has a strong emphasis on insurance, energy, financial institutions and construction. She handles litigation in state and federal courts, and on appeal.
As a member of the firm’s Insurance Practice Group, Kristen speaks insurance and has resolved a variety of disputes involving complex coverage issues, ranging from an insurer’s duty to defend and indemnify to additional insured status and coverage for contractual indemnity. Kristen is also a valuable resource for clients who need advice navigating their policies, the scope of their insurance needs, and other insurance issues in commercial disputes and transactions.
Kristen’s diverse practice also covers a wide range of business litigation, including cases involving breach of contract, oil and gas rights, employment-related claims, maritime issues and others.
Before starting her private practice, Kristen served as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Lynn N. Hughes of the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of Texas. During her two-year clerkship, Kristen strengthened her persuasive writing skills and gained a unique grasp of the intricacies of federal practice and procedure, making her a valuable resource for clients and other lawyers at the firm with litigation before federal courts.