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Counsel

Kelly J. Zech

Estate planning should give every client confidence that their legacy is secure and their loved ones are cared for.

My Approach

No two clients are the same, and I take the time to truly understand each person’s story, values, and goals so I can help craft a plan that accurately reflects what matters most to them. Whether the end goal is to provide for family, support a business, or give back to the community, estate planning is about preserving a legacy, and that requires thoughtful customization and a clear understanding of tax considerations.

I work with individuals and families at all stages of life, from those planning for marriage or navigating blended families to business owners and clients across a wide range of wealth, to develop tailored solutions that fit their specific circumstances. I value the trust clients place in me to guide them through these decisions and see myself as a long-term partner for them as their lives evolve.

Outside the office, I enjoy travelling and seeking out new adventures. I love experiencing new cultures, visiting unknown places, and meeting new people. Before going to law school, I even took an extended road trip across Europe with my then-toddlers (and survived)! At home, you’ll often find me on the sidelines of my kids’ sporting events or checking out the Twin Cities’ music scene.

Groundbreaking Moment

My first career was with the U.S. Navy, where I spent six years primarily as an operations officer and navigator, leading sailors and managing critical ship functions. I spent two deployments supporting counter-drug operations in Central and South America and was later involved in minesweeping operations, helping to ensure the operational readiness of all U.S. mine countermeasure ships. Throughout my service, I focused on developing teams, expanding access to education for sailors, and leading efforts to restructure deployment rotations so service members could spend meaningful time with their families. These experiences instilled in me a deep sense of discipline, accountability, and problem-solving under pressure, all of which continue to shape my approach to practicing law and the level of service I provide to my clients.

Practice Areas

Honors & Awards

Rising Star

Minnesota Super Lawyers, 2025

Pro Bono Service

MSBA North Star Lawyer, 2024

Associations & Memberships

Twin Cities Estate Planning Council

Minnesota State Bar Association

Hennepin County Bar Association

Ramsey County Bar Association

Minnesota Women Lawyers