Trailblazing Women:
Q&A with Kristin Graham Koehler

Kristin Graham Koehler is the managing partner of the Washington D.C. office, a member of Sidley’s Executive Committee, and a global co-leader of the firm’s White Collar: Government Litigation and Investigations practice. Kristin is based in the Washington, D.C. office, and has handled numerous United States Department of Justice criminal and civil investigations.

“…every investigation or case is memorable for better or worse. Great teams, interesting facts, colorful witnesses, and successful outcomes…lead to my fondest memories.”

What attracted you to the practice of law and what aspect of your practice do you enjoy the most?

I wanted to be an attorney for as long as I can remember. Spirited debates and arguments around the dinner table regarding political and social issues were a daily occurrence in my home growing up, and I suspect that had something to do with it.

Working on difficult problems and the strategy involved in solving them are the aspects of the practice of law that I enjoy the most.

Tell us about a professional goal you are proud of achieving, and what (or who) inspired you to go for it.

I am extremely proud of my Sidley partnership and grateful to my Sidley mentors—Tom Green, Mark Hopson, Karen Popp, and Paul Kalb—who inspired me along the way.

What is the most memorable case that you led and what made it so memorable?

There are so many—every investigation or case is memorable for better or worse. Great teams, interesting facts, colorful witnesses, and successful outcomes tend to lead to my fondest memories.

On a personal note, what has been your go-to self-care activity?

Daily yoga practice and Peloton bike and strength training.

Can you share with us a saying or quote that gives you inspiration or helps you stay centered?

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” (Lao-Tzu) or, stated differently, “There is only one way to eat an elephant: a bite at a time” (Desmond Tutu).