Connor J. Kelley

Connor Kelley is an experienced litigator in the firm’s Washington, DC office, where he represents clients large and small in all phases of complex and high-stakes commercial disputes.

In his commercial litigation practice, Connor counsels clients in the life sciences, financial services, sports, and defense industries, among others. He has handled matters involving a wide range of claims, including negligence, breach of contract, public nuisance, and trade secrets. He also has expertise in all stages of litigation, including initial pleadings, document and deposition discovery, and dispositive motions practice. A member of multiple teams that have tried cases before judges and juries in federal and state courts, Connor understands how to help his clients achieve successful outcomes at trial as well.

In his active pro bono practice, Connor primarily represents indigent criminal defendants in Maryland state court. He has investigated and tried cases involving charges ranging from assault and unlawful firearm possession to first-degree murder, and has secured multiple acquittals for his clients. Connor has also represented non-profit organizations seeking to protect housing, voting, and other civil rights.

Before joining Covington, Connor served as a law clerk to the Honorable Eric L. Clay of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and the Honorable Leonie M. Brinkema of the U.S. District Court for Eastern District of Virginia, both courts in which he has since litigated on behalf of his clients.