Paola K. Maldonado

Paola K. Maldonado is an associate in the Minneapolis office of Ogletree Deakins. She advises a diverse range of clients, from small businesses to multinational corporations, on day-to-day compliance, strategic workforce planning, and high-stakes litigation. With a steady, solutions‑driven style, Paola partners closely with HR teams and in‑house counsel to deliver actionable advice and results that minimize risk while advancing organizational objectives.

Paola zealously defends employers in single‑plaintiff litigation involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful termination, and whistleblower allegations. She leverages her experience before state and federal courts and administrative agencies to develop efficient litigation strategies, manage discovery, and secure favorable outcomes through motions practice or negotiated resolutions.

In her counseling role, Paola provides practical guidance on hiring, discipline and discharge, leaves of absence, reasonable accommodations, and compliance with the FLSA, FMLA, ADA, Title VII, and analogous Minnesota and local laws. Clients can also rely on Paola to conduct and oversee sensitive internal investigations and to navigate government audits and charges before the EEOC and state agencies.

In addition to her professional responsibilities, Paola serves as the Vice President of the Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association and co-treasurer for the Warren E. Burger Inn of Courts.

When she is not working, Paola enjoys attending baseball games, especially on sunny days, and the crunch of fresh snow during her afternoon walks.