
Kathryn L. Dent, Esq.
About
Kathryn L. Dent (née Sullivan) joined Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, P.C. as a Senior Associate Attorney in early 2025, bringing with her a wealth of experience, an unwavering commitment to her clients, and a deep passion for family law. With a career spanning over a decade, Kathryn has built a solid reputation for her skilled preparation, strategic litigation, and empathetic advocacy in all areas of domestic relations, including divorce, custody, and support matters.
Beginning her legal career in Texas in 2011, Kathryn gained extensive trial and dispute resolution experience across a broad range of legal matters including criminal defense, zoning disputes, bankruptcy, probate, and business transactions. Her litigation skills were sharpened through numerous bench and jury trials, appeals and appearances in federal court. She ultimately focused her practice exclusively on family law, where she found her calling.
In 2017, Kathryn joined the national domestic litigation firm Cordell & Cordell, first practicing in Austin and then transferring to their Philadelphia office. She continued her family law practice at Petrelli Previtera, LLC, where she also served as a Litigation Manager.
After moving to her forever home in Bucks County in 2022, Kathryn quickly immersed herself in the local legal communities. She is an active member of the Bucks County Bar Association, having served as Secretary and CLE Coordinator for the Women’s Law Division.
Known for her tireless advocacy and meticulous preparation, Kathryn approaches each case with calm resolve, seeking amicable resolutions whenever possible, but never hesitating to fight fiercely for her clients in court when needed. Her clients appreciate her transparency, empathy, and unwavering support, especially during emotionally charged transitions like divorce and custody disputes.
Kathryn believes that while no attorney can change the past, she can help her clients take control of their future. Her broad legal background allows her to think outside the box and develop tailored strategies that deliver results.
Outside of the courtroom, Kathryn enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, son, and their three beloved dogs. She also enjoys boating and is frequently in Cape May, NJ. Kathryn is a proud member of the Junior League, having been active in both the Austin and Philadelphia chapters.
Education
Education
- Hofstra University School of Law, New York
- Juris Doctor, 2011 – Cum Laude; Dean’s List
- Labor and Employment Law Journal, Articles Editor; Moot Court Association, Board Member, Competitor, and Finalist; Student Bar Association, Board Member; National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA); Hofstra Law Women, Committee Chair
- University of Delaware
- Bachelor of Science, 2007 – Cum Laude; Dean’s List
- Major: Human Services, Public Policy, and Education
- Minor: History
- Accelerated Graduation in 3 years; Student Ambassador; Relay for Life; DE Repertory Dance Company
Bar Admissions
- Texas, 2011 (Southern and Western Federal District Courts of Texas)
- Pennsylvania, 2013
- New Jersey, 2019
Professional Associations and Memberships
- Bucks County Bar Association
- Montgomery County Bar Association
- Delaware County Bar Association
- Chester County Bar Association
- Philadelphia County Bar Association
- Pennsylvania Bar Association
- Bucks County Bar Association, Secretary, Women’s Law Division – 2023, 2024
- Bucks County Bar Association, CLE Coordinator, Women’s Law Division – 2024, 2025
- Nicholas Cipriani Matrimonial Inn of Court – 2019-2021
- Junior League of Philadelphia

Choose Experience & Success
Over 100 Years of Combined Experience
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We Know the Law & Learn the Facts
We learn your story and we live it. Our team prides themselves on listening and learning every fine detail. More importantly, we remember those details in court and at the negotiation table. When you put your case in our hands, we provide you with the personal attention and commitment you and your case deserve.
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Information Powers OutcomesOur attorneys believe it is their duty to empower and educate people about their rights in divorce. Propelled by a responsibility to give back to the community, several divorce lawyers within the firm regularly speak and teach at civic groups and bar associations.
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Reputable & Trusted Family Law AttorneysNamed as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer each year since 2006, the firm’s founder, Lori K. Shemtob, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) — an esteemed honor held by only 74 family law lawyers in all of Pennsylvania. She served as AAML’s President of the Pennsylvania Chapter from July 2016 through July 2017.
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From Big Firm to Boutique Firm
Our story begins with a group of lawyers who came from big firms with a passion to create a better experience for our clients. Each lawyer's knowledge and experience contribute to innovative strategies in court and settlement negotiations. Our commitment to excellence takes our divorce and family law firm well beyond the ordinary.