In Pro Bono With Ed Nahhat clients, lawyers, and anyone who finds it interesting can catch personal profiles and inspiring stories about adventures in the law and the challenges and personal rewards of having a career in it. We’ll also talk with notable guests and experts outside of Kemp Klein as we paint a picture of what an effective legal team encounters and can accomplish together.
Please note, information is meant for entertainment purposes only. For a legal opinion, please contact any attorney here at the firm.
The client comes before the law, not above it. The Pro Bono podcast is a chance for me to give back to clients and peers after 30 years plus of practice. Here we get to talk openly about what legal careers mean to us, what inspires us every day, how we fight for our clients and how we stand up for legal principles in society. I hope it inspires you, too.
– Pro Bono Host Ed Nahhat
Pro Bono With Ed Nahhat Episode 03 - Brian H. Rolfe
In this episode of Pro Bono with Ed Nahhat, we sit down with Brian Rolfe, President and CEO of Kemp Klein Law Firm. Brian shares his journey from joining the firm in 2007 to leading it today, emphasizing the firm’s unique culture and long-standing staff. His commitment to the firm grew over time, leading him to take on leadership responsibilities while maintaining his law practice.
Brian reflects on his early legal career, starting in tax and business litigation, and how his experience shaped his approach to firm management. He discusses the importance of mentorship, peer recognition, and the effort required to become a “Super Lawyer,” highlighting the steep learning curve young attorneys face in their first years. He attributes much of his success to resilience, preparation, and a strong support system, including his wife, Leslie, whom he met in college.
We also explore Brian’s personal interests, including his passion for marathon running, skiing, and officiating lacrosse. He draws parallels between preparing for a marathon and preparing for litigation—both require discipline, endurance, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges. His dedication to personal growth extends into his legal practice, where he has evolved from a litigation-heavy focus to a more holistic role in business and estate planning, helping clients navigate succession planning and long-term financial security.
Brian explains how Kemp Klein prioritizes succession planning for businesses and individuals, working to prevent legal disputes before they arise. He emphasizes the firm’s commitment to client service, ensuring that business owners, families, and individuals have comprehensive legal strategies in place.
As we recently celebrated Kemp Klein’s 55th anniversary, Brian reflects on the firm’s history and its strong sense of community. He also discusses the Kemp Klein Foundation, its charitable initiatives, and the success of the annual golf outing, which raised over $30,000 for Forgotten Harvest.
Throughout our conversation, Brian’s leadership philosophy becomes clear—he values collaboration, preparation, and a positive outlook. His ability to balance firm leadership with a thriving legal practice underscores his dedication to both the firm’s legacy and its future.
More info on the Kemp Klein Law Firm can be found at kkue.com
Ed Nahhat
