Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2026 
Kristy Buckley is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law.
Her professional recognitions include an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, sustained for more than ten years, designation as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in both 2018 and 2019 and a Super Lawyer in 2026, and inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America®.
She grew up in Helena and now lives in Bozeman with her husband and two sons. She enjoys spending time in the unparalleled Montana outdoors, typically fishing on a lake or exploring the mountains.
Education- LL.M. in Taxation, University of Miami School of Law
- J.D., University of Miami School of Law
- Master of Professional Accountancy, Montana State University
- B.S. in Business and Accounting, Montana State University
- B.S. in Sociology/Legal Studies, Montana State University
- Montana
- Wyoming
- Florida
- U.S. District Court, District of Montana
- U.S. Tax Court
- TE/GE Council (Member 2015-Present; Pacific Coast Vice President 2018-2022; Pacific Coast President 2023-Present; National Chair 2022-2023)
- Joint Committee on Employee Benefits, ABA Tax Section (2008-Present; Co-Vice Chair Health & Welfare Subcommittee 2023-2025; Co-Chair Health & Welfare Subcommittee 2025-Present)
- ABA Tax Law Section (Member 2006-Present)
- ABA Health Law Section (Member 2006-Present)
- American Health Lawyers Association (2011-Present)
- Society for Human Resources Management (2008-Present)
- State Bar of Montana, Health Law Section (Member 2011-present; Board/Council 2013-2018)
- State Bar of Montana, BETTR Law Section (Member 2008-2023; Secretary, 2008-2012)
- National Center for Employee Ownership (2011-2016)
- Western Pension & Benefits Conference – Montana Chapter (2007-2010)
- Leadership Montana, Class of 2016
- Bozeman Noon Rotary Club (Member 2016-2022; President 2021-2022; Board 2018-2022)
- Family Promise of Gallatin Valley, Board (2016)
- Bozeman Sunrise Estate Planners Group (2006-2011)
- Gallatin County Bar Association (Member 2006-Present)
