Kelly Kautz

Kelly Kautz is a Georgia attorney whose years of service as a city councilmember and mayor align directly with Denmark Ashby Matricardi’s representation of cities, municipalities, and public entities throughout Georgia. Having spent nearly a decade on the other side of municipal decision making, she understands firsthand how local governments operate, how policy and legal advice are evaluated by elected officials, and how decisions affect communities in real time. This perspective is invaluable to the firm’s municipal clients and informs her practical, grounded approach to public sector representation.

Kelly has practiced law in Georgia since 2002 and brings more than twenty years of experience that complements the firm’s local government, redevelopment, and litigation practice. Her legal career includes service as an Assistant District Attorney, a Superior Court law clerk, and a Special Assistant Attorney for the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services. She has also practiced as a real estate attorney and guardian ad litem and operated a solo practice focused on criminal defense, business law, and civil litigation. She has tried numerous jury trials and handled matters in courts across Georgia, including cases before the Georgia Court of Appeals and the Georgia Supreme Court, and she is admitted to practice in federal court.

Kelly served for nine years on the Snellville City Council, including service as the city’s first female mayor. That experience gives her a clear understanding of municipal governance, board and council process, public accountability, and the real-world considerations facing local officials. It also allows her to anticipate issues, advise efficiently, and communicate effectively with elected bodies, staff, and stakeholders.

In addition to her legal and public service work, Kelly has taught courses in legal studies, ethics, and political science at Shorter University and Georgia Gwinnett College. She is known for her ability to explain complex legal issues clearly and work collaboratively with boards and public agencies.
Kelly earned both her undergraduate degree and her law degree from the University of Georgia. Outside of her legal practice, she enjoys spending time with her son and coaches his baseball and football teams.