Kaarin Nelson

Kaarin Nelson is the founding attorney of Nelson Schaffer, PLLC, a Minneapolis-based employment law firm. Licensed in Minnesota since 2006, she represents employees in employment disputes statewide.

Schaffer is an expert in discrimination cases under state and federal laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Minnesota Human Rights Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Schaffer is a committed advocate for those facing workplace issues, including sexual harassment and wrongful termination. She is skilled at defending clients against unlawful retaliation and has won significant jury verdicts and negotiated settlements totaling millions of dollars for her clients.

Her educational journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Boston College, followed by a Master of Arts in criminal justice from Suffolk University, where she graduated summa cum laude.

She earned her Juris Doctor cum laude from the University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minnesota in 2006, setting the stage for her focused career in employment law.

Schaffer’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Her peers have consistently recognized her, and she has garnered numerous accolades, including a 10.0 “Superb” Avvo rating and selection to Super Lawyers since 2019. Schaffer was named the 2021 Attorney of the Year by the Minnesota Lawyer. The National Trial Lawyers list includes her in its Top 40 Under 40 and Top 100.

In addition to her legal practice, Schaffer is active in the legal community, delivering presentations and writing articles that share her insights into employment law. Her commitment to justice is clear. She advocates for her clients. She is also a thought leader and educator in the legal community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Nelson Schaffer, PLLC

Licensed State

• Minnesota

Education

• University of St. Thomas School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Suffolk University
  Master of Arts (MA)
• Boston College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges