Debra S. Nelson

Debra S. Nelson is a Maple Grove, Minnesota, business lawyer and shareholder who advises businesses and nonprofit organizations on corporate, real estate, employment, and succession matters. She serves as chair of the Business Law and Nonprofit Organizations Department and is also a member of the Real Estate Department. With more than 33 years of experience, she helps clients address mergers and acquisitions, contracts, governance, compliance, employment issues, and long-term business planning.

Ms. Nelson earned her J.D. from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in 1992 and her B.S. from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in 1989. Her education in law and business provides a practical foundation for advising organizations on transactions, operations, real estate concerns, and risk management. This background supports her ability to evaluate legal issues with careful analysis and business-focused judgment.

Ms. Nelson represents clients ranging from start-up ventures to multimillion-dollar companies across a range of industries. Her work covers business formation, day-to-day operations, complex mergers and acquisitions, and succession planning. She also advises nonprofit organizations on governance, compliance, and strategic planning matters. By understanding each client’s goals and future plans, she provides practical guidance designed to support stable growth, effective operations, and sound decision-making.

Debra S. Nelson is also a frequent speaker on business law, employment law, family cabin LLCs, and business succession planning. Her practice reflects a strong combination of corporate, nonprofit, employment, and real estate experience. She helps business owners, nonprofit leaders, and families evaluate options, protect important assets, and plan for future transitions with clear advice and practical legal solutions.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Henningson & Snoxell, Ltd.
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Minnesota Bar Association
• Member, Hennepin County Bar Association

Licensed State

• Minnesota

Education

• University Of Nebraska College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University Of Nebraska College of Business
  Bachelor Of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges