Nancy S. Bender-Kelner

Penelope J. Phillips is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employment Law - Management. Penelope J., who practices law in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been recognized since 2007. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Penelope J. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Jessica is a partner with Meagher + Geer and practices in our Anti-Fraud and Extra Contractual Litigation practice group. Since 2010, she has provided litigation services in a variety of insurance coverage and regulatory issues, including property loss, liability, auto insurance defense, and life insurance. She has also assisted clients with the implementation of fraud detection and prevention strategies. Jessica has extensive experience in all aspects of litigation, including discovery, depo...

Leatha chairs Meagher + Geer’s Anti-Fraud and Extra Contractual Litigation practice group and she has handled thousands of cases throughout her career. As one of the firm’s leaders, she also serves as a member of its Management Committee. Leatha litigates fraud and civil RICO matters throughout Minnesota and the country. She has successfully represented her clients against numerous bad faith and extracontractual claims. She also has experience handling significant property loss, d...

Jennifer Debrow is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Trademark Law. Jennifer, who practices law in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been recognized since 2021. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Jennifer is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Steve works extensively with commercial landlords and tenants on the negotiation and drafting of leases and related agreements for space in high-rise office buildings and shopping centers throughout the country. He also represents developers, institutional owners and property managers on commercial real estate acquisitions and financings of all sizes and complexity. Appreciated for his ability to listen and combine unique ideas and perspectives, Steve knows how to identify and integrate the n...

Dennis C. Bremer is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Intellectual Property. Dennis C., who practices law in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Dennis C. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Joel Hilgendorf is a partner in the real estate practice group of Hellmuth & Johnson. He is certified by the Minnesota State Bar Association as a Real Property Law Specialist. Joel counsels banks, businesses, individuals, and community associations in all legal issues related to real estate, including sale, purchase, leasing, and financing of residential and commercial property.

Jason R. Kraus is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Patent Law. Jason R., who practices law in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Jason R. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Michelle Jester is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Real Estate Law. Michelle, who practices law in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Michelle is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

“My clients are priority number one. I approach each interaction with integrity, respect, and well-reasoned advocacy to best meet your needs. Working to reach a positive outcome for you is my greatest reward.” With more than four decades of experience, I have a depth of knowledge that gives me clarity, wisdom, and skills that few can match. It’s exciting for me to be at this point in my career and I look forward each day to making a difference in the lives of my clients. I h...