Burris Law founder Kelly Burris was recognized by Chambers & Partners for her outstanding commitment to community service and pro bono work. Kelly received the title of “Highly Commended” in the category of Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year, USA, Private Practice. The honor is part of the Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards: North America 2021.

Below is what Chambers & Partners wrote about Kelly.

Kelly is the owner and founder of Burris Law, PLLC. A licensed pilot since 1985 and an aeronautical engineer in her prior career, Kelly has a natural affinity for aerospace technology, but she also works in many other sectors. Kelly is an active volunteer pilot with Angel Flight Central and Angel Flight Mid-Atlantic, non-profit organizations that provide free air transportation to medical patients in need. Pre-COVID, Kelly would often combine business trips with her role as a volunteer pilot, detouring her route to get a patient to a location for medical attention.

Kelly also provides pro bono IP representation for the Ninety-Nines, an international organization of women pilots founded by Amelia Earhart. While providing copyright and trademark support, she also works with this organization to help young women find jobs in aviation. Clients say: ‘Kelly’s focus on diversity and inclusion extends from the people she hires at her law firm to the local artwork she puts on the walls of that law firm. Kelly opened her own office in an urban renewal section of Detroit. She bet on the city and her diverse workforce. She has never looked back. Nor have her clients who followed her there.’

The Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards: North America 2021 celebrate the achievements of firms and individuals who are furthering the advancement of diversity and inclusion across the USA and Canada. Chambers & Partners ranks the world’s leading lawyers and law firms. Its legal rankings are based on in-depth market analysis and independent research, conducted by its experienced team of researchers.