Kansas Roots, Legal Futures: How Karter Granzella is Building His Career at Kennedy Berkley

At Kennedy Berkley, we believe the next generation of attorneys brings fresh energy, innovative thinking, and strong ties to the communities we serve. That’s exactly what you’ll find in Karter Granzella, a Salina native, third-year law student at Washburn, and future transactional and family law attorney who has already made his mark both in and out of the courtroom.

From Salina South to Washburn Law

Karter grew up in Salina, graduated from Salina South High School, and studied economics at Kansas State University before heading to Washburn University School of Law. His connection to Kansas—and especially to Salina—runs deep, making his return to Kennedy Berkley as a law clerk a natural fit.

Now entering his third year, Karter will be taking advantage of Washburn’s innovative Third Year Anywhere program, which allows students to complete their final year remotely while working hands-on in the legal field. For Karter, that means splitting his time between classes and real-world experience at our Salina office.

“The best way to learn is always on the job. You can study as much as you want in school, but really getting involved is how you grow as a lawyer.” – Karter Granzella

Exploring Transactional and Family Law

So far, Karter has gravitated toward business law, tax, estate planning, and family law—a mix that combines technical expertise with interpersonal connection. His favorite class? Personal Income Tax.

“There’s just something about digging into things like deductions and asset realization that makes it click for me. I like the logic of it all,” Karter explains.

This summer, he gained hands-on experience setting up businesses, navigating agricultural law topics, drafting estate plans, and even assisting with domestic and family law cases. The variety of work helped him see how quickly young attorneys can grow in just a six-month period when they’re trusted with meaningful responsibilities.

Advice for Other Law Students

For other law students looking to break into the legal profession—especially in rural Kansas—Karter has practical advice: “don’t wait for opportunities to find you.”

“I didn’t wait for the rural program to place me. I just started reaching out to firms here in Salina. I sent emails, asked people to lunch, introduced myself, and let them get to know me. Smaller firms aren’t doing the big on-campus interviews, but they are looking for help. You just have to put yourself out there.”

That proactive mindset is exactly why Karter has thrived at Kennedy Berkley, where our attorneys encourage students to dive in, learn by doing, and build lasting professional relationships.

Balancing Life, Law, and Racing

Of course, Karter isn’t all law books and briefs. On weekends, you’ll often find him racing IMCA Stock Cars with his dad—the same car they’ve worked on together since high school still tearing up dirt tracks across Kansas. It’s a hobby that reflects the same values he brings to the firm: teamwork, grit, and the drive to keep pushing forward.

Why Kennedy Berkley is the Right Place to Grow

Karter’s story highlights why Kennedy Berkley is a great place for law students looking to grow their careers. Whether it’s through clerkships, internships, or hands-on experience during programs like Washburn’s Third Year Anywhere, we provide opportunities for students to:

• Gain real-world experience in transactional, business, family, and estate law

• Build connections with attorneys across Kansas and beyond

• Explore the unique challenges and rewards of practicing in rural and regional communities

• Take meaningful steps toward their future careers while still in school

  
  

Managing Partner James Angell reflects: “Karter embodies the kind of talent that strengthens our roots in Western Kansas. Mentoring young attorneys like him is rewarding because they not only bring innovative solutions, but they also remind us why investing in the next generation matters. Their energy keeps our firm—and our communities—thriving for decades to come.”

For Karter, the road ahead looks bright—both in the courtroom and the office. And for students like him, Kennedy Berkley offers the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to turn ambition into action.