About Sarah
Sarah A. Kelly: Leading Employment Law Attorney in Philadelphia
For over 30 years, Sarah A. Kelly has provided exceptional legal counsel and aggressive representation to clients facing complex employment law challenges. As a seasoned attorney specializing in employment law, employment discrimination law, and related litigation, including sexual harassment, Ms. Kelly offers a unique blend of strategic advice and courtroom expertise. She’s built a distinguished career, both at leading law firms and as in-house counsel for two major financial services corporations, allowing her to understand the critical issues faced by businesses of all sizes – from major retailers and manufacturers to professional services organizations, entrepreneurial companies, and hospital and health care employers.
Ms. Kelly's approach is rooted in practical experience. She’s adept at managing and litigating the full spectrum of employment law matters, from individual cases to complex class action lawsuits. Her client-side experience is a particularly valuable asset; it allows her to anticipate potential legal pitfalls and proactively develop solutions that safeguard her clients' interests, often preventing costly litigation or, when litigation is unavoidable, strategically positioning them for success.
Recognized as a fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers and currently serving as chairperson of the College’s Third Circuit Credentials Committee, Ms. Kelly is deeply committed to advancing the profession. This role involves evaluating and recommending nominees for fellowship, ensuring the highest standards of expertise and dedication within the legal community. Her involvement as a Hearing Committee member for the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania further demonstrates her commitment to ethical and responsible legal practice.
Beyond her leadership roles, Ms. Kelly actively contributes to the legal community through course planning and faculty membership at the Pennsylvania Bar Institute and at numerous national employment law conferences. She has also served on the board of directors of St. Agnes Medical Center and provides invaluable pro bono employment law counsel to various nonprofit agencies. Ms. Kelly’s dedication extends back to her foundational education, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University in 1977, a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1979, and a J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1985.
Practice Areas:
Ms. Kelly’s expertise encompasses a wide range of employment law areas, including:
- Management Employment Law: Providing strategic guidance and legal support to employers on all aspects of employment law, including compliance, risk management, and dispute resolution.
- Labor and Employment Litigation: Aggressively litigating employment disputes, including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, wage and hour violations, and contract disputes.
- Sexual Harassment Law: Defending clients against allegations of sexual harassment and providing expert legal counsel on sexual harassment prevention programs.
- Legal Counsel for Corporate Transactions: Offering employment law advice to employers involved in mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions.
- Specialized Consultations: Providing expert guidance on complex issues such as downsizings, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and employee benefits.
Education & Credentials:
Ms. Kelly’s qualifications are truly impressive:
- Bachelor of Arts, Tufts University, 1977
- Master’s Degree, University of Pennsylvania, 1979
- J.D., University of Pennsylvania Law School, 1985
- Fellow, The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers
- Chairperson, College of Labor and Employment Lawyers Third Circuit Credentials Committee
- Hearing Committee Member, Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania
Awards & Recognition:
Ms. Kelly has been consistently recognized for her expertise and dedication:
- Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2009
- Recognized for Employment Law - Management
- Recognized for Litigation - Labor and Employment
- Practice Area: Labor Law - Management
Affiliations:
- Philadelphia Bar Association
- The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers
- St. Agnes Medical Center (Former Board Member)
Contact Information:
Sarah A. Kelly is a dedicated and experienced legal professional committed to protecting the rights of her clients. If you require expert legal guidance in employment law matters, please contact Ms. Kelly’s office to schedule a consultation.
