About Mary Kristine
Mary Kristine Savage, known professionally as Kris Lawless, was a distinguished family law attorney based in Topeka, Kansas. Admitted to the Kansas State Bar in 1991, she dedicated nearly four decades to the legal profession before retiring in July 2023. Throughout her career, Lawless focused on family law, adeptly handling complex cases involving divorce, child custody, child support, and adoption. Her expertise in these areas made her a advocate for many families navigating difficult legal challenges. Before embarking on her legal journey, Lawless worked as a paralegal for Stephen Joseph in Wichita, Kansas.
This role provided her with a solid foundation in legal procedures and client relations. In 1991, she earned her Juris Doctor from Washburn University School of Law, where she developed a focus on family law that would define her career. Her commitment to serving families in her community was evident from the start, as she quickly established herself as a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney. In addition to her work in family law, Lawless was certified by the Kansas Supreme Court as a mediator in domestic cases. This certification allowed her to facilitate resolutions between parties in conflict, promoting amicable settlements and reducing the emotional toll often associated with legal disputes.
Her mediation skills were regarded, and she served as a conciliator and case manager for multiple judicial districts across Kansas, further extending her influence in the legal community. Lawless's contributions to the field were recognized in the 2020 edition of The Best Lawyers in America, where she was honored for her work in criminal defense, encompassing both general and white-collar cases. This accolade underscored her versatility as an attorney and her ability to navigate various aspects of the law. Her membership in the Kansas State Bar reflected her commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and staying informed about developments in the legal field. In addition to her practice, Lawless shared her knowledge with future generations of attorneys as an adjunct professor at Washburn University School of Law.
Her dedication to education and mentorship enriched the lives of her students, many of whom went on to pursue successful careers in law. Following her retirement, she continued to be remembered for her significant impact on the legal community and the lives of countless families she served throughout her career. Mary Kristine Savage passed away on January 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and professionalism in the field of family law.