Local attorney Lee Hutton III has joined the Minneapolis office of Barnes & Thornburg LLP as a partner in the firm's litigation department and the entertainment, media and sports practice group.

Hutton, who previously served as the chair of the entertainment practice group at Zelle LLP, is known for his litigation work representing celebrities, athletes and other entertainers including professional basketball player Kris Humphries during his divorce from media personality Kim Kardashian.

"We are delighted to have Lee join the firm's litigation and entertainment groups, as he brings a tremendous wealth of experience," said Connie Lahn, managing partner of Barnes & Thornburg's Minneapolis office, in a statement. "Lee's outstanding litigation knowledge and skillset, coupled with his deep industry relationships, will make an immediate impact on the services we provide and will be a great boost to our firm's presence in the Midwest."

Hutton received his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law and his B.A. from the University of Minnesota.

Hutton has received several accolades including being named "2010 Attorney of the Year" by Minnesota Lawyer.