Kelly Graml is an experienced attorney focused exclusively on electronic discovery (e-discovery) and management in complex commercial and criminal litigation matters. As a member of the firm’s legal team, Kelly oversees various phases of e-discovery while maintaining a keen awareness of changing statutory requirements, case law and emerging e-discovery standards.
Kelly consults with the litigation team and clients to develop and implement plans for preservation and collection of ESI and manages all aspects of document review and ESI production. From developing project protocols and workflows and supervising contract attorneys to collaborating with vendors to resolve the varied and challenging e-discovery issues that arise, Kelly has proven herself to be an essential partner in this practice area.
For two years before joining Rusty Hardin & Associates, Kelly worked for the firm as an independent project manager overseeing complex document reviews on two multiparty lawsuits, one of which was a Delaware Court of Chancery dispute. She was asked to join and assist the firm’s trial team behind the scenes in Delaware, where the firm’s successful defense of the client resulted in the plaintiffs settling and dismissing claims mid-trial.
Kelly also worked for several years as an independent document review analyst while handling a few probate and estate planning matters in her spare time. Before entering the world of e-discovery, Kelly practiced family law with her father for two years and then transitioned to probate and administration, working as an associate at a small firm.
Kelly has handled several pro bono matters, including representation in family law and child deportation proceedings, and simple estate planning. She has also enjoyed serving as a volunteer in a variety of non-legal capacities over the years.
Before embarking on her legal career, Kelly worked as a public relations coordinator for Covenant House Texas, a nonprofit dedicated to providing shelter for homeless, abused, and abandoned youth.
Kelly is a native Houstonian. She received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Texas A&M University and later attended South Texas College of Law. During her time as a law student, she worked on law review and served as an intern for Judge John S. Anderson at the Texas 14th District Court of Appeals.
Assisted the firm’s trial team in Delaware Court of Chancery dispute where the firm’s successful defense of the client resulted in plaintiffs settling and dismissing claims mid-trial. Kelly served as project manager for the document review on this complex multiparty lawsuit, managing a small group of contract attorneys and marshalling countless documents for use in motions, depositions and trial.
Provided discovery support and supervision of document review teams for large litigation matters using a variety of e-discovery platforms.
J.D., South Texas College of Law, 2004
B.A., Texas A&M University, 1992
Pro Bono Attorney with Houston Volunteer Lawyer Program and Kids in Need of Defense (intermittently, 2004-2014)
Panel Review Member, Houston Arts Alliance (2012 and 2013)
Volunteer work with refugees individually and through The Community Cloth (2008-2011)
Save this Park! Campaign (2006-2007)
Court-appointed Advocate, Child Advocates – Houston (1998)
