“Every family law case presents a unique set of circumstances and goals. I understand the importance of individualized attention throughout the entire process, as it can be an extremely emotional and stressful time. I serve as an anchor and source of strength for my clients and strive to achieve the best possible result for each case.”
Kelly R. Giraudo began her career as an Associate in 2010 and became a Partner at Butler, Giraudo & Meister, P.C. in 2013. Kelly has dedicated her career to family law and she recognizes that every family’s needs are different. Kelly is a passionate advocate and believes in working closely with her clients to evaluate their goals and develop clear strategies to obtain them. Kelly focuses on negotiation and reasonable settlement of cases, but never hesitates to litigate if the parties require a judge’s decision.
Kelly knows that family matters are emotional and stressful, so she helps her clients recognize that they are not powerless, but rather, that they can shape a positive future. Kelly helps clients focus on the big picture and involves them in generating solutions that keep control in their hands.
Kelly has handled numerous contested child custody, visitation, interstate child removal cases and adoptions. She has also handled and tried numerous contested orders of protection. Kelly has experience with complex divorce issues, including asset division, child support and spousal maintenance for both men and women.
Kelly grew up in Paducah, Kentucky and now resides in Pekin. She and her husband have two sons. Kelly and her family enjoy outdoor activities, fitness and traveling.
Education
Kelly earned her Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University School of Law in 2009. While at SIU School of Law, she served as research assistant to Professor Mark R. Lee and was employed by the SIU Civil Practice/Elderly Clinic, which exposed her to several aspects of divorce and litigation. Kelly received her Bachelor of Science, Cum Laude, from Mid-Continent University in 2005.
Professional Associations and Memberships
- Kiwanis Club of Pekin (Former President; Board of Directors)
- Peoria County Bar Association (Former Chair of the Family Law Section of the Substantive Law Committee)
- Peoria County Bar Association (Former President)
- Illinois State Bar Association (Standing Committee on Women & the Law, 2019-current; Family Law Committee, 2021)
- Illinois State Bar Association Leadership Academy – Inaugural Class of 2020
- Illinois Bar Foundation (Board of Directors)
Honors and Awards
- SuperLawyers Rising Star, 2020, 2021, 2022
- Leading Lawyers – Emerging Lawyer, 2021
- Peoria County Bar Association Pro Bono Attorney of the Year, 2020
- Leadership Academy Graduate, Illinois State Bar Association, 2020
- Women in Leadership Trailblazer Award, Southern Illinois University School of Law, 2018
- Moot Court Intramural Competition – Brief Writing Award, Southern Illinois University School of Law, 2008
- Moot Court Intramural Competition – Quarterfinalist, Southern Illinois University School of Law, 2008
- Mid-Continent Writing Excellence Award, 2005
Philanthropic Activities
- CASABlanca Dancing with our Local Stars (Dancer- 2019, Judge- 2021)
- Illinois Bar Foundation (Board of Directors)
- Kiwanis Club of Pekin (Former President; Board of Directors)
- Legal Election Advisor for 2008 Presidential Election
- Students Living a Mission, Mission Trip to Ensenada, Mexico
- Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
- YMCA Frostbite 5K
- Delta Theta Phi Toy and Clothing Drive
Fraternities/Sororities
- Delta Theta Phi
