About Mary Frances

Mary Frances Kelly practices family law in White Plains, New York. She has been the owner of her firm since 1982, focusing on divorce, estate planning, and real estate law. The firm, Kelly & Knaplund, serves clients throughout Westchester County and beyond, providing comprehensive legal services tailored to family dynamics and individual needs. She earned her J.D. from New York University School of Law in 1971, following a B.A. in English Literature from the College of New Rochelle in 1965.

Her legal education laid a strong foundation for her practice. As a result, the attorney can address complex family law issues with a understanding of both legal and emotional aspects. Over the decades, she is known for her thorough approach to family law, often guiding clients through challenging transitions with care and professionalism. Most of her cases involve divorce proceedings, where she advocates for equitable settlements and fair child custody arrangements. She also assists clients with estate planning, ensuring that their wishes are honored and that their assets are protected. Real estate law is another area of her practice, where she navigates transactions and disputes with expertise.

Cases typically involve negotiations, court appearances, and mediation sessions, depending on the needs of her clients. Before establishing her own firm, she worked working in various legal settings, which helped shape her understanding of family law. Her commitment to her clients is evident in her membership with several professional organizations, including the New York Association of Collaborative Professionals and the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York. These affiliations keep her connected to the latest developments in family law and collaborative practices. Mary is actively involved in her community and often participates in local events aimed at supporting families and individuals facing legal challenges. She believes in the importance of accessible legal services and frequently offers workshops and seminars to educate the public about their rights and options.

Her dedication to her clients and her community continues to drive her practice forward. With her experience and understanding of family law, Mary Frances Kelly remains a advocate for her clients in White Plains. She is licensed to practice in New York and has the qualifications to represent clients in both the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, as well as the 2nd Circuit. Her legal journey reflects a commitment to serving families during some of their most challenging times.

Education

New York University School of Law

J.D. (1971)

1968

College of New Rochelle

B.A. (1965) | English Literature

1961

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Owner

Kelly and Knaplund
1982

Accepted Jurisdictions

2nd Circuit
U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York
New York
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York

Court Admissions

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York U.S. District Court
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York U.S. District Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit U.S. Circuit Court
Supreme Court of the State of New York State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

Family Law Divorce Estate Planning Real Estate Law

Legal Services Scope

Negotiations Court Appearances Mediation Sessions

Professional Associations

New York Association of Collaborative Professionals

has membership 2002 - Current

Women s Bar Association of the State of New York

has membership 1980 - Current

Westchester County Bar Association

has membership 1978 - Current

Westchester Women s Bar Association

has membership 1976 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 399 Knollwood Rd White Plains NY 10603