CHATTANOOGA + HIXSON, TNMeet Our Team
Darren Kennedy
Attorney at Law
With two decades of legal experience in Chattanooga, Darren Kennedy brings a wealth of knowledge to every case. A 2006 graduate of Nashville School of Law, Darren built his practice with a strong emphasis in the areas of estate planning, probate, and real estate law. He is known for guiding clients through complex legal matters with a blend of expertise and compassion.
His 25 years in the real estate industry—spanning title, lending, construction, development, and litigation—make him a trusted advisor for all your real estate needs. Ever an entrepreneur, Darren also brings his history of running multiple businesses to the table. With wisdom that comes only through such diverse practical experience, Darren is committed to walking alongside his clients, helping them feel assured and confident at every step of their legal journey.
Outside the firm, you'll often find him running, cycling, or spending time with his wife, Andrea, and their two adult children, Lauren and Grayson.
Leah Ritter
Attorney at Law
Attorney Leah Ritter brings both a keen mind and a caring heart to Resolutions Law Firm. With a background in public service law and years spent guiding families through difficult legal challenges, she has a gift for turning complex matters into clear, hopeful paths forward.
Leah earned her B.A. in Social Research & Public Policy from New York University and went on to complete her Juris Doctor at Georgia State University College of Law, drawn to the program's strong focus on public service and community impact. She finds joy in walking people through life's big decisions, offering not only guidance but genuine reassurance. Here at Resolutions, she has led countless clients through complex real estate issues and litigation battles, in addition to preparing people for the future through proper estate planning.
Outside the office, Leah can be found exploring new places, savoring great food with her husband, and enjoying quiet moments with a favorite cup of coffee.
Casey Caldwell
Attorney at Law
Casey Caldwell brings more than 20 years of legal experience to his role as an estate planning and probate attorney at Resolutions Law Firm, helping individuals and families navigate some of life's most difficult and important moments. A 2005 graduate of Regent University School of Law, Casey began his career practicing consumer bankruptcy law in Knoxville, where he spent ten years helping clients through challenging financial circumstances. He later moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, and turned his focus to estate planning and probate with Price & Williams. For Casey, the most rewarding part of practicing law is providing clients with peace of mind—whether easing the burden of financial hardship, helping a family plan for the future, or guiding them through probate after a loss.
A native of Cleveland, Tennessee, Casey is glad to once again call the greater Chattanooga area home with his wife, Crystal, and daughters, Claire and Carlee. Outside the office, sports are a big part of his life, from the Tennessee Vols and Atlanta Braves to Duke basketball and NASCAR. He also enjoys playing golf, reading history and historical biographies, and traveling with his youngest daughter to gymnastics meets.
Sarah Cornelius
Certificated Paralegal & Operations Manager
Sarah Cornelius brings a strong background in the legal field to Resolutions Law Firm, with a passion for helping others navigate important legal matters. She earned her bachelor's degree in Criminology from Western Kentucky University and spent nearly five years at the Circuit Court Clerk's Office, where she developed a deep appreciation for the justice system and the impact it has on people's lives. At Resolutions, Sarah enjoys a new perspective on the law and helping clients navigate it with clarity and confidence.
Outside of work, Sarah is a baking enthusiast (especially when it comes to desserts!), an avid reader, and loves spending quality time with her husband. Together, they share a dream of traveling the world, exploring new places, and making unforgettable memories. Whether she's assisting clients or perfecting a new recipe in the kitchen, Sarah's warm and thoughtful approach shines through in everything she does.
Crystal Caldwell
Probate Paralegal
Crystal Caldwell brings more than 20 years of legal experience to her role as a paralegal at Resolutions Law Firm, including more than a decade focused on probate. During her years in Wilmington, North Carolina, she handled complex probate matters for the New Hanover County Public Administrator before serving in the Probate Division of the Clerk's Office. She later became a Deputy Clerk, an Assistant Clerk and ex officio judge, overseeing probate and guardianship cases throughout New Hanover County. This depth of experience gives Crystal a unique understanding of both the probate process and the uncertainty and grief families can face while navigating it.
A Knoxville native, Crystal recently returned home to Tennessee with her husband Casey and two daughters after years in North Carolina—and she's very happy to be back where there are four seasons and, in her words, "a real football team." A devoted Vols fan who bleeds orange, she also loves animals, true crime shows and podcasts, music and concerts, and cheering on her eight-year-old daughter at gymnastics. When life slows down, she's just as happy curled up on the couch with her husband, their two fur babies, and a good movie or show.
Lauren Ray
Marketing Director
As the daughter of Darren Kennedy, Lauren Ray quite literally grew up around the law. She first began helping at the firm at 14 years old, soaking up legal knowledge and getting an early look at what it means to serve clients well.
Along the way, Lauren spent five years working in real estate and gained hands-on experience in real estate investing and project management. Today, she brings that experience, along with a love for creativity and connection, to her role at Resolutions. She enjoys spreading the word about the firm, creating content that makes the legal world feel a little more approachable, connecting with the Chattanooga community, and helping people find the legal guidance they’ve been searching for.
Outside the office, Lauren loves making music, trying a new recipe, and a good long road trip. She also hosts a tiny house nature retreat, where she gets to share her love of beautiful spaces, thoughtful details, and a slower pace of life with travelers looking for a refreshing getaway. At home, she’s happiest spending a peaceful afternoon with her husband, Issayah, and Charlie, her one-eyed rescue beagle.
Sarah Brotton
Legal Assistant
More information coming soon!
Diego Magana
Intake Coordinator
With more than four years of experience in the legal field, Diego Magana has worked with law firms across Alabama, California, and Tennessee in areas including personal injury, estate planning, and probate.
As an Intake Coordinator at Resolutions, Diego is often one of the first people clients meet when they reach out to the firm. His favorite part of the job is helping people take that first step toward finding the legal guidance they need. He also values the close-knit atmosphere at Resolutions, where supporting clients and supporting one another go hand in hand.
Outside the office, music has been a huge part of Diego’s life for more than 16 years. He has performed vocals with several local bands and currently sings for a hardcore punk band. He also loves cooking, exploring the local food scene with his family, gaming, and skateboarding.
In fact, Diego’s approach to skateboarding has become something of a personal philosophy: “Be as perseverant in life as you are when trying to land a kickflip—keep pushing until you master it.” It’s a mindset he carries from the board into his work and everyday life.
Meet Our ATTORNEYSAttorney Darren Kennedy
With two decades of legal experience in Chattanooga, Darren Kennedy is a trusted advocate in estate planning, probate, and real estate law. A 2006 graduate of Nashville School of Law and licensed to practice in both Tennessee and Georgia, Darren brings a lifelong commitment to service, integrity, and practical solutions to his work, helping individuals and families navigate complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.
A Client-Centered Approach
At the heart of Darren's work is a commitment to making legal matters feel clear, manageable, and stress-free. He believes that navigating estate planning, probate, and real estate issues shouldn't be overwhelming—it should be a process handled with clarity, care, and confidence.
Known for his approachable nature and ability to explain complex legal concepts in simple terms, Darren ensures his clients feel informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way. Whether he's drafting an estate plan, guiding a family through probate, or resolving a real estate dispute, his goal is always the same: to provide practical solutions tailored to each client's unique needs.
Beyond the Office
Outside of his legal practice, Darren is an active and adventurous spirit. He holds a black belt in martial arts, enjoys cycling and running, and values time spent with his wife, Andrea, and their two adult children, Lauren and Grayson. Deeply connected to the Chattanooga community, he appreciates the relationships he has built over the years and remains committed to serving those around him.
Work with Darren Kennedy
If you're looking for an attorney with unmatched real estate expertise, a client-first approach, and a deep commitment to helping you navigate life's legal challenges, Darren Kennedy is here to help. Whether you're planning for the future, settling an estate, or handling a complex real estate matter, he'll stand by your side every step of the way.
A Legacy of Real Estate Expertise
A Chattanooga native, Darren grew up in small-town Collegedale, TN, where he spent his days riding his bike to school and experiencing the close-knit nature of small-town life. He first earned a degree in Wellness Management from Southern Adventist University, but his entrepreneurial spirit quickly led him into the world of real estate.
For 25 years, Darren built a thriving career across multiple facets of the real estate industry—title, lending, construction, development, and landlord-tenant law. He ran his own mortgage company, owned a construction and development company, pioneered downtown Chattanooga revitalization projects, developed subdivisions, and owned hundreds of rental properties—all before law ever crossed his mind. This hands-on experience gives him a rare, well-rounded perspective that sets him apart from other attorneys.
Whether you're buying, selling, developing, or facing a legal dispute, Darren's deep understanding of real estate transactions from every angle allows him to offer insight and solutions that only come from decades of firsthand involvement. His ability to see the bigger picture while ensuring every detail is handled with precision has earned him the trust of homeowners, investors, business owners, and developers throughout Tennessee.
From Real Estate to Law—A Natural Transition
Darren's journey into law was a natural evolution of his deep-rooted experience in real estate. Over the years, he saw firsthand how critical legal guidance could make—or break—a deal, protect assets, and secure financial futures. Determined to provide the kind of strategic legal support that could help people safeguard both their present and future, he pursued a career in law.
Today, Darren blends his business acumen with legal expertise, offering clients more than just textbook legal advice—he provides practical, real-world solutions that align with their long-term goals. His practice focuses on estate planning, probate, and real estate law, giving families and individuals the peace of mind they need when making life's most important decisions.
Attorney Leah Ritter
Leah Ritter brings a unique combination of strategic thinking, legal experience, and genuine compassion to her work as an attorney. Her career has been shaped by a passion for helping people navigate complex challenges, translating overwhelming situations into clear paths forward. With a thoughtful, client-centered approach, Leah is committed to making each client feel informed, supported, and confident in the decisions ahead.
Meet Our ATTORNEYS
From Consulting to Client Advocacy
Leah's professional journey began as a Project Management Consultant, where she took her clients' “big picture” visions for innovative projects—often involving multiple stakeholders like technology teams and franchisees—and turned them into actionable steps while ensuring everyone stayed aligned. This experience honed her ability to see the full scope of complex challenges, a skill she now brings to guiding families and individuals through intricate legal matters.
A Path Toward Public Service
Leah earned her B.A. in Social Research & Public Policy from New York University, where she studied on both the New York and Abu Dhabi campuses. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law, drawn to the program's strong emphasis on public service and community impact. Licensed to practice law in both Tennessee and Georgia, Leah brings her education and diverse professional experience to helping clients navigate complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.
Client-Focused Legal Guidance
Since graduating, Leah has helped numerous clients navigate complex legal situations in a variety of areas, always striving to transform overwhelming circumstances into clear, actionable paths forward. At Resolutions, her career has spanned complex real estate and litigation cases to challenging probate matters. She's also known for making the estate planning process clear and easy to understand. Leah finds joy in walking clients through life's big decisions, offering not only guidance but also reassurance, helping them feel informed, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
Beyond the Office
Outside the office, Leah leads a vibrant, curiosity-driven life. She is an avid reader, drawn especially to memoirs and modern fiction, and participates in multiple book clubs. Leah and her husband are passionate foodies—they love experimenting with new recipes at home and supporting local restaurants. They also enjoy exploring the outdoors, from hiking and kayaking to recently taking up roller-skating. Leah's love of travel has taken her to 33 countries across six continents, giving her a deep appreciation for different cultures and experiences.
At home, Leah cherishes quiet moments with a good cup of coffee and the company of her adopted senior dog. She is also an enthusiastic advocate for the Chattanooga community, often supporting local artists, events, and businesses around town.
Work with Leah Ritter
If you're seeking an attorney who combines sharp legal insight with a caring, client-centered approach, Leah Ritter is here to help. Whether you're navigating complex litigation matters, making important life decisions, or seeking guidance through difficult circumstances, she is committed to walking alongside you with clarity, compassion, and reassurance.
Meet Our ATTORNEYSAttorney Casey Caldwell
With more than 20 years of legal experience, Casey Caldwell has built his career around helping people navigate some of life's most difficult and important moments. As an estate planning and probate attorney at Resolutions Law Firm, Casey brings decades of experience, a practical approach to problem-solving, and an understanding of just how much peace of mind the right legal guidance can provide.
More Than Two Decades in the Law
Casey graduated from Regent University School of Law in 2005 and began his legal career practicing consumer bankruptcy law in Knoxville, Tennessee. For ten years, he worked with individuals and families facing serious financial burdens, helping them understand their options and find a way forward.
In 2015, Casey and his family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, where he joined Price & Williams and focused his practice on estate planning and probate. Over the next decade, he helped clients prepare for the future through thoughtful estate planning and guided families through the legal responsibilities that follow the loss of a loved one.
Today, Casey brings that depth of experience to Resolutions Law Firm, where his practice centers on estate planning and probate.
Peace of Mind Through Every Stage of Life
Throughout Casey's career, the legal issues have varied, but the people at the center of them have often shared something in common: they came to an attorney carrying a problem they didn't quite know how to solve.
That's the part of practicing law Casey finds most meaningful.
He knows that clients seeking legal help may be grieving, worried about their finances, trying to protect the people they love, or simply unsure what they need to do next. Casey approaches those conversations with the goal of helping clients understand their options and leave with a greater sense of direction and peace of mind.
At Resolutions, he also values the close-knit, family atmosphere of the firm and the team's shared commitment to taking care of the people who walk through its doors.
Back Home in Tennessee
Casey grew up in Cleveland, Tennessee, and after a decade in North Carolina, he and his family returned to the area he has always considered home. He and his wife, Crystal, now live in the greater Chattanooga area with their daughters, Claire and Carlee.
Outside the office, sports are a big part of Casey's life. He follows the Tennessee Vols, Atlanta Braves, Duke basketball, and NASCAR and enjoys playing golf whenever he gets the chance. He's also an avid reader, particularly of history and historical biographies, and spends plenty of time traveling with his youngest daughter to gymnastics meets.
Work with Casey Caldwell
Estate planning and probate often involve decisions that carry real weight—for you, your family, and the future. Casey brings more than two decades of legal experience to those decisions, along with a commitment to making the process understandable and manageable.
Whether you're creating an estate plan, preparing for the years ahead, or navigating probate after the loss of someone you love, Casey is ready to help you understand what comes next and move forward with greater peace of mind.
Find Peace of Mind. Take the Next Step.