Kelly Kautz

Kelly Kautz is a Senior Attorney with Denmark Ashby Matricardi LLC whose practice focuses on local government law, municipal representation, litigation, and redevelopment. What distinguishes Ms. Kautz is her unique perspective as both an attorney and former elected official. Having served as a city councilmember and the first female mayor of the City of Snellville, she understands firsthand how local governments operate, how policy decisions are made, and the practical challenges facing governing authorities. That experience enables her to provide legal counsel that is not only legally sound, but also practical, responsive, and informed by the realities of public service.

Ms. Kautz has practiced law in Georgia since 2002 and brings more than two decades 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, served as a guardian ad litem, and maintained a solo practice focused on criminal defense, business law, and civil litigation. Throughout her career, she has successfully tried numerous jury trials and represented clients before the Georgia Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court of Georgia, and the federal courts.

Ms. Kautz’s years of public service provide her with a comprehensive understanding of municipal governance, board and council procedures, public accountability, and the legal and operational issues confronting local governments. She works effectively with elected officials, municipal staff, and community stakeholders to develop practical solutions that support sound governance and effective decision-making. Her ability to view issues from both a legal and policymaking perspective makes her a valuable resource to the Firm’s governmental clients.

In addition to her legal practice, Ms. Kautz has taught legal studies, ethics, and political science at Shorter University and Georgia Gwinnett College. She is recognized for her ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear and practical manner, making her an effective advocate, advisor, and educator.

BAR ADMISSIONS
State Bar of Georgia | Georgia Court of Appeals | Supreme Court of Georgia | Admitted to Practice in Federal Court

EDUCATION
University of Georgia School of Law Juris Doctor

University of Georgia
Bachelor’s degree