My Why

What powers my practice

I originally set out to be a writer, but in law school, I discovered that my mind naturally aligned with the law—solving puzzles, thinking critically, and seeing the bigger picture. I find fulfillment in helping clients navigate urgent challenges with both legal insight and a personal touch. Whether working with clients, colleagues, or in my community, I lead with wisdom and compassion. Above all, I want people to know that I care deeply, follow through, and am committed to delivering thoughtful, above-and-beyond service.

Overview

Kellye is an experienced litigator and counselor with experience in various areas of law including employment, conflict resolution, policy review and development, governance, investigations, and litigation. Additionally, Kellye helps develop restorative justice and reconciliation plans for nonprofits and faith-based organizations that have experienced trauma or significant conflict, to aid in rebuilding trust, reconciling relationships, and caring for victims.

Prior to joining Michael Best, Kellye was an attorney at Wagenmaker & Oberly. She gained extensive experience in corporate litigation as an associate at Kirkland & Ellis LLP and then as a partner at Freeborn & Peters LLP. 

Kellye also served previously as a church pastor. She spent nearly nine years on staff at Willow Creek Community Church, holding various roles. In her last three years on staff, Kellye directed child protection policy measures, developed congregant and volunteer protection practices, managed disciplinary and restoration processes, led the reconciliation ministry, and conducted internal investigations.

Experience

Solutions in action

Credentials

  • Northern Seminary, Master of Arts (M.A.), New Testament, 2020
  • DePaul University College of Law, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 2000,
    • cum laude, 2000
    • Managing Editor of Lead Articles, DePaul Law Review
  • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), English Literature, 1996

  • Illinois
  • United States Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
  • United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
  • United States Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
  • United States District Court, District of Colorado
  • United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois
  • United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan

Engagement

  • Member, American Bar Association
  • Member, Illinois State Bar Association
  • Member, Christian Legal Society
  • Mentor, Legal Vocational Fellowship

  • Mentor, Legal Vocation Fellowship, 2023 – Present
  • Member, Safe Families for Children, 2019 – Present
  • Board Member, Jubilee Centre USA, 2016 – Present
  • Co-Founder and Volunteer, Willow Creek Legal Aid Ministry, 2009-2015
  • Former Board Member, Gospel Justice Initiative
  • Former Board Member, Housing Opportunities for Women
  • Former Board Member, Shama Ministries

Insights

See Everything