Jeffrey K. Van Nest

Jeffrey K. Van Nest is a trial lawyer at King Van Nest PLLC in Minneapolis. He represents people in high-stakes civil matters involving complex litigation, civil rights, professional malpractice, breach of fiduciary duty, wrongful death, and whistleblower claims. His practice focuses on protecting individuals and families harmed by corporations, insurance companies, government actors, and other powerful institutions. Jeff helps clients pursue justice through careful investigation, focused strategy, and trial-centered advocacy.

Jeff earned an LL.M. from Georgetown University Law Center, a J.D. cum laude from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and a B.A. from the University of Minnesota. His legal education supports a practice built on disciplined analysis, public service, and courtroom preparation. He is admitted in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and before the U.S. Supreme Court, giving him a strong foundation for handling serious matters across state and federal forums.

Jeff’s experience includes more than two decades of government service. He rose through the FBI from Special Agent to Chief Division Counsel and led fast-moving global investigations involving high-impact issues. He also served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney, Staff Counsel for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, Operations Attorney at the National Security Agency, and Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General Corps, where he advised and defended service members.

Jeffrey K. Van Nest brings a methodical, team-based approach to complex cases. His work is shaped by Trial Lawyers College training and by experience leading cross-functional teams in demanding investigations. He also serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota Law School and participates in legal organizations including the Federal Bar Association, Minnesota State Bar Association, State Bar of Wisconsin, and Hennepin County Bar Association. By combining investigative judgment with client-centered advocacy, Jeff helps people pursue accountability in difficult legal matters.

Law Office Affiliations

• Trial Lawyer, King Van Nest PLLC
• Member, Federal Bar Association
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association
• Member, State Bar of Wisconsin
• Member, Hennepin County Bar Association
• F Warrior, Trial Lawyers College Alumnus

Licensed State

• Minnesota
• Wisconsin

Education

• Georgetown University Law Center
  Master of Laws (LLM)
• University of Wisconsin Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Minnesota
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges