About Shelley A.
Shelley A — Kester is a seasoned family law attorney based in Traverse City, Michigan. With over 30 years of legal experience, she specializes in divorce, arbitration, mediation, and domestic violence cases. Ms. Kester was admitted to the Michigan State Bar in 1992, following her admission to the California State Bar in 1989. As the founder and CEO of Wilson Kester, the Empowered Divorce Source, she leads a dedicated team focused on navigating complex family law matters for clients. Under her leadership, the firm was recognized in 2022 as one of the 500 fastest-growing law firms in the nation—evidence of its commitment to client service and legal excellence.
In addition to her role at Wilson Kester, Ms. Kester has held several prominent positions within the legal community. During the 2022-2023 term, she served as Chair of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan, becoming the first attorney from Northern Michigan to achieve this honor. Her involvement extends to the Domestic Violence Committee and the Practice Management Committee of the State Bar, where she has contributed to shaping policies and practices that benefit the legal community and the public. Public service is a significant aspect of Ms. Kester's career.
She was twice appointed by Governor Rick Snyder to the Child Abuse & Neglect Prevention Board, where she worked on initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable children. Additionally, she served as Mayor Pro Tem of Traverse City, demonstrating her commitment to local governance and community development. As the founding and past chair of the Traverse Bay Children’s Advocacy Center, she has played a vital role in supporting children and families in need. Her involvement with the Great Lakes Children’s Museum further highlights her dedication to community engagement and education. Recognition for her contributions to both the legal field and the community has been extensive. In 2022, Ms.
Kester received the Amelia Schaub Pioneer Award from the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan – Tip of the Mitt Region, honoring her leadership and advocacy for women in law. She has also been named among the "Top 50 Women in Business" by TC Business News, reflecting her influence and success in the region's business community. Fluent in English and conversational Spanish, Ms. Kester is dedicated to empowering individuals through her legal work and leadership. She continues to serve clients in Traverse City and throughout Michigan, focusing on family law matters. Her experience, community involvement, and commitment to advocacy make her a respected figure in both the legal profession and the community at large.
