Lemle & Kelleher, L. L. P., one of the oldest law firms in New Orleans, traces its origins to the late nineteenth century when New Orleans experienced a boom as the shipping and commercial center of the South.  The firm gained prominence during the period by virtue of its representation of the Illinois Central and its affiliated railroads, banking interests and numerous substantial clients, many of which are still represented by the existing firm.  In the 1940's, the firm embarked upon two new areas of practice that grew to substantial proportions - insurance defense and admiralty.

In 1950, the modern firm of Lemle & Kelleher evolved from a merger of Lemle, Moreno & Lemle and Kelleher, Hurley & Kohlmeyer.  Harry Kelleher was one of the leading business litigators in New Orleans from the 1950's to the 1980's and also served as one of the City's most progressive citizens.  He is fondly remembered as a leading proponent of peaceful desegragtion of the City's educational and business institutions.