Introduction
Kristy chairs Fredrikson & Byron’s Family Law Group. She focuses her practice on issues involving marital relations and family law.
Kristy specializes in complex divorce cases, involving the valuation and analysis of large marital estates and those involving closely held businesses and professional practices. Kristy was a math major in college, and is adept at thinking outside of the box when structuring settlements. Kristy is deeply aware of the emotional and psychological turmoil associated with divorce proceedings. As a result, she provides a professional environment where the client’s needs are respected and addressed.
The Fredrikson & Byron Family Law Group sets itself apart from other firms, based upon our knowledge of multiple areas of the law, extensive courtroom experience, stellar negotiation skills, and efficiency. We have skilled attorneys in other firm practices that provide advice on specialized areas such as business and real estate valuation, trusts, and taxation. We work diligently and assign projects in the most cost-effective manner, while providing prompt, personal service – in fact, Kristy answers her own phone.
Kristy regularly represents clients utilizing mediation and early neutral evaluation to resolve Family Law issues. Various forms of alternative dispute resolution are increasingly used in resolving some or all of the issues presented in marriage dissolution cases. Kristy is experienced with the most frequently used methods, including mediation, early neutral evaluation, arbitration, and working with a consensual special master.
Kristy is often asked why she practices in the area of family law, and the answer lies in her clients. They come for assistance when they are at the most difficult crossroads in life, with choices to make that can dramatically alter their future. This is a time where Kristy can have a significant and positive impact by helping her clients move forward toward a better future.
In 2007, Kristy was inducted to fellowship in the
Kristy is a speaker at continuing legal education programs and has written and presented on topics relating to Family Law. She is also a Rule 114 certified neutral.
Education
- William Mitchell College of Law, J.D., 1997, magna cum laude
- University of Wisconsin-River Falls, B.A., 1992, with honors
Bar Admissions
- Minnesota, 1997
- U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, 1998
Practice Areas
- Family Law, Chair
- Litigation
Selected Publications & Presentations
- Co-Presenter, “Divorce Law for Estate Planners,” Hennepin County Bar Association CLE, February 2012
- “Employer Withholding of Child Support in
- "Real Estate Transfers After A Divorce," co-authored with Lisa Lindenfelser, Fredrikson & Byron Family Law Focus Newsletter, March 2005
- “Traveling Abroad After 9-11: Weeding Through the Red Tape,” Family Law Forum, Spring 2002, co-authored with Judy Engel
- "20/20 Foresight: Strategies for Protecting a Business and its Employees During a Divorce," Corporate Practice Institute CLE, Minnesota Institute of Legal Education, 2002
Professional Activities
- Fellowship, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Minnesota Chapter
- American Bar Association, Family Law Section
- Minnesota State Bar Association, Family Law Section
- Hennepin County Bar Association, Family Law Section
- Warren E. Burger Inn of Court
- Junior League of Minneapolis
- Pro bono attorney, Volunteer Lawyers Network
Certifications
- Qualified Neutral under Rule 114, 1997-present
Honors & Distinctions
- Named a 2005 Rising Star by Minnesota Journal of Law & Politics
- Regional Semi-Finalist, Phillip C. Jessup International Moot Court, William Mitchell College of Law, 1996
- Phi Kappa Phi