A new law firm has sprouted in Annapolis, founded by five attorneys from one of the largest firms in Anne Arundel County.

McKenna Russo was started by Maria Worthington McKenna, Michael Russo, Jr., Nicole Livingston, Brian Burkett, and Kelly Burgy, who, the firm says, have more than 80 years of combined experience. The new firm opened its doors March 17 after the principals worked on West Street at Council Baradel.

McKenna, 44, said she’s been working in the legal community since she was 18.

“I’ve pretty much had every job in a law firm, everything from copy clerk to paralegal to associate to partner,” McKenna said. “And for me, there’s a season for everything. So, with the partners at McKenna Russo, this was a season of change and new chapters for us.”

The quintet worked closely during their time at Council Baradel.

Burkett, whose team specializes in business law, worked in the healthcare and financial insurance industries before attending law school at the University of Maryland, where he fell in love with the business side of the profession after working with area business owners.

The firm operates across Maryland, Washington, D.C., and the surrounding areas. The partners specialize in estate planning, estate and trust administration, business law, real estate law, and litigation.

“There’s just an energy when we walk into the office every morning, and then we come in and see our team working here,” Burkett added. “It’s very exciting for us now that we’re finally here and we’re working and everybody’s very motivated, energized on our team.”

McKenna said she knew that when she got the opportunity to open her own law office, it had to be in Annapolis. It was a good central location for the partners’ families, and the city has a rich history and sense of community, she added

“Annapolis was kind of the perfect place for us, because we can already build on a lot of the relationships that we have in the community with different businesses and clients. This just became a natural fit to continue to help support the local economy and community.” Burkett said.

Have a news tip? Contact Benjamin Rothstein at brothstein@baltsun.com, 443-928-1926.