Kelly Theard, head of the construction department at New Orleans based law firm Deutsch Kerrigan, has been elected as the law firm’s most recent Managing Partner. Theard is the first female elected to the firm as managing partner in the firm’s 94 year history. She follows Terrence “Terry” Brennan who held the position since 2016.
“I’m pleased to pass the torch on to Kelly Theard as the firm’s newest Managing Partner of Deutsch Kerrigan,” former Managing Partner Terry Brennan said in a statement. “Kelly is an invaluable member of the firm and a true champion of the firm’s culture and principles of professional excellence. As managing partner, Kelly will work alongside the firm’s elected Management Committee to oversee the firm’s day-to-day operations, and continue to promote client service and strategic growth as the firm approaches its 100-year anniversary. She is a dedicated colleague, a trusted and passionate litigator, and a valued member of the New Orleans community. I have no doubt that she will be an excellent Managing Partner.”
“I am honored to be the firm’s first elected female Managing Partner,” Theard said after her election. “I hope this appointment will further showcase the firm’s dedication and support for the enhancement of female and other diverse attorneys and staff.”
Kelly Theard, head of the construction department at New Orleans based law firm Deutsch Kerrigan, has been elected as the law firm’s most recent Managing Partner. Theard is the first female elected to the firm as managing partner in the firm’s 94 year history. She follows Terrence “Terry” Brennan who held the position since 2016.
Kelly Theard is an active member of the New Orleans community, serving in leadership roles and on various committees for The Louisiana Children’s Museum, Habitat for Humanity, Volunteers of America, New Orleans Hispanic and Heritage Foundation, Hogs for the Cause, Henry Aucoin Foundation, and others. She was also selected and participated in the Bryan Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum through The Committee for a Better New Orleans. Ms. Theard earned her Juris Doctor from Louisiana State University, and was a law clerk for Deutsch Kerrigan while in law school. Kelly joined Deutsch Kerrigan in 2004, rose to General Partner status in 2014, and was appointed the Head of the Construction Department in 2018. She has served on the Management Committee since 2016. Kelly’s practice focuses on design professional liability, construction defect and restaurant/retail liability. She holds an AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale-Hubbell, has been recognized as a Recognized Practitioner (Construction) by Chambers USA, and is included in listings and award recognitions in Best Lawyers®, Super Lawyers®, London-based Lawyer Monthly Magazine, New Orleans CityBusiness, New Orleans Magazine, and others. She is married to Greg Reggio and has four step-children.
In this new position, Ms. Theard is “humbled at the opportunity to lead the firm as we embark on this next chapter. Thanks to Terry’s leadership, and the overall excellence of our staff and attorneys, I look forward to continuing the exciting growth of the firm, with an unwavering commitment to client service, professional excellence and a renewed role in the community.”