McCarter & English, LLP mourns the loss of Chairman Emeritus, Michael P. Kelly, an amazing lawyer, compassionate human being, and extraordinary friend and leader.
Mike joined McCarter in June 2000, and served as Chairman of the Executive Committee from 2009 to 2019. In his decade as Chair, he transformed McCarter into a national firm that reflected his own strength and compassion, and greatly expanded both its service capabilities and pro bono commitment. Mike was also a pillar of the Delaware legal community and litigated thousands of high-profile cases in state and federal courts nationwide throughout his career. A fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, he brought hundreds of cases to trial and argued countless appeals, including more than 25 cases before the Delaware Supreme Court. Beyond the courtroom, Mike was a respected mentor, who was known for his integrity and loyalty, and for treating everyone he met with respect and kindness.
Although a celebrated leader and renowned trial lawyer, Mike’s greatest pride was his family – his wife Deanna, and their children, Joanna and Patrick. He instilled in his family, and his colleagues and friends at McCarter, a deep-seated sense of civic obligation, and volunteered his time for several charitable causes in Wilmington, Delaware. As a lifetime resident of Wilmington, he served on the boards of numerous charitable organizations and described his pro bono activities as his true passion.
Mike will be remembered as a zealous advocate and cherished mentor, who never deviated from his devotion to his faith, family and friends. He has left an indelible mark on all those who had the great fortune to call him a friend and colleague. We will miss him greatly and endeavor to live up to his legacy.
To read more about Mike’s professional career, click here.
The articles below offer additional remembrances of Mike’s life and legacy:
McCarter & English Chairman Emeritus Michael P. Kelly Dies – Law 360
Former McCarter & English Chair Kelly Dies at 65 – New Jersey Law Journal
Former McCarter Chair Mike Kelly dies at 65 – Delaware Business Times