Katherine Sierra-Kelly

Being from a military family, Senior Attorney Katherine Sierra-Kelly has lived in most of the U.S. and is currently located in Knoxville, TN. She is passionate about family law because it allows her to truly help families and children during challenging and emotional times. As an attorney, she strives to provide support and assistance in a way that can dramatically change the way a child experiences their childhood and how a client can rebuild their life. Katherine’s goal is to help people and be a support and advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. 

Katherine has worked extensively as a Guardian Ad Litem, representing the interests of children in dissolution matters, as well as adults who may be incapacitated. She takes the time to explain the legal process and help clients understand and navigate a wave of emotions. Katherine also allows them to be heard and tell their story to someone who will listen to all of it, not just the easy-to-digest pieces.  

Focusing on each individual’s unique needs, she recognizes that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. She seeks to find amicable resolutions for her clients whenever possible and attempts to minimize conflict and reduce costs for her clients while obtaining the best possible outcome. However, she also believes in holding those accountable when they are dishonest or seek to take advantage of her clients. 

So far, her proudest professional achievement has been receiving the Gene Schuster award from the Benton/Franklin Legal Aid Society for her work supporting individuals in the local communities. 

Away from the office, Katherine enjoys spending time with her family, getting out on the water, and cheering on both the Seattle Seahawks and the Tennessee Vols. Since relocating to Tennessee, she has also embraced her role as a Blount County football coach’s wife, proudly supporting her husband and the community. Katherine remains committed to service and previously spent a year with AmeriCorps, helping families in need in Seattle.

In addition to her legal practice, Katherine has a long record of professional service and community leadership. She has served as a board member of the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce (2022–2024), Benton Franklin Legal Aid (2008–2022), and the Domestic Violence Services of Benton & Franklin Counties (2017–2021). She is an active member of the Washington State Bar Association (2007–present), the Benton/Franklin Bar Association (2008–present), and previously served on the Benton Franklin Counties Bar Association Board of Governors (2013–2015). Katherine has also held roles as President-Elect of the Benton Franklin County Bar (2021–2022), a Title 26 Guardian ad Litem Selection Committee Member (2015–2021), Committee Chair of FAIR—Fairness, Accountability, Inclusion, Reform (2020–present), and a member of the Benton Franklin Collaborative Family Law Group (2017–present).

Following her move to Tennessee, Katherine is now a member of both the Tennessee Bar Association and the Knoxville Bar Association, and she serves on the Advisory Board for the Women in Leadership Program at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.