Kelli practices exclusively criminal defense in the greater Southwest Missouri area. She has been described by her clients as a fierce courtroom advocate and compassionate legal counselor.After graduating summa cum laude, first in her class, from Southern Illinois University School of Law, Kelli became a Public Advocate in the State of Kentucky, representing more than 1200 individuals facing criminal charges, including serious accusations such as first degree murder. She developed a reputation as a tenacious trial attorney and passionate advocate for her clients before the bench.During law school, Kelli was a decorated scholar. She was awarded six CALI Legal Excellence Awards, including awards in Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, and First Amendment Rights. She ranked first in her class each semester. She was selected for a competitive two year internship with the Federal Public Defender where she worked on a variety of federal matters including capital murder proceedings.What sets Kelli apart is more than her trial skills and courtroom effectiveness. It is her client centered approach to the practice of law. She understands that her clients are going through something unexpected, confusing and frightening. She explains the law to her clients in simple terms, and ensures the client understands what is happening, what their options are and how long the process will take. Kelli believes securing the best outcome in any case begins with having compassion for her client.