Russell J. Karnes

Russell J. Karnes is a Shareholder with a broad civil litigation practice focused on real estate, business disputes, and property matters. He has extensive trial and appellate experience and represents clients in complex legal issues. He provides practical and effective representation across a wide range of cases.

Russell earned his Juris Doctor from Marquette University Law School in 2010, where he was a member of the Dean’s List. He also received his Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2003. His education has provided him with a strong foundation in legal research and advocacy.

Russell focuses his practice on civil litigation, including real estate disputes, property tax assessment appeals, contract matters, and business conflicts. His work also includes foreclosure actions, title insurance litigation, quiet title claims, and collection matters. He brings a clear strategy and careful analysis to each case he handles.

Russell also assists clients with business, estate planning, and real estate transactions. He works to provide guidance that is both practical and efficient. His approach helps clients understand their options and move forward with confidence in both litigation and transactional matters.

Russell is admitted to practice in Wisconsin and Illinois, as well as several federal courts and the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. He has appeared in courts across Wisconsin and beyond. His wide admission base allows him to represent clients in many jurisdictions with consistency and care.

Russell has received several honors for his work. He was named a Leader in the Law by the Wisconsin Law Journal in 2020. He has been included in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers, and he received the 2023 Mobile Legal Clinic Volunteer Jon Allen Pace Setter Award.

Russell J. Karnes continues to serve clients with dedication and strong legal insight. His experience in litigation, combined with his practical approach, enables him to guide clients through complex disputes and transactions toward clear, effective outcomes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Mallery s.c.
• Member of Board of Governors, State Bar of Wisconsin
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Board Member, Milwaukee Young Lawyers Association
• Member, Milwaukee Bar Association

Licensed State

• Wisconsin
• Illinois

Education

• Marquette University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Wisconsin-Madison
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges