Mary Kristen was born and raised in Mobile, AL where she attended St. Paul’s Episcopal School. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Duke University in 2003 and her Juris Doctorate from Loyola University Los Angeles in 2009. Mary Kristen was hired directly out of law school as a New York City Assistant District Attorney. It was there that Mary Kristen developed her aggressive trial skills. Mary Kristen returned to Mobile after the birth of her oldest child and clerked for the Honorable Ben H. Brooks. From there, she continued as a trial attorney focusing on both criminal and family law. Her practice has been dedicated to the individual needs of her clients and helping them successfully navigate through some of the most difficult moments in life.

Mary Kristen and her husband Jack Rester have five young children who keep them on their toes. They enjoy spending time together as a family and weekend breakfasts at Waffle House.