Mark D. Nelson

Mark D. Nelson is a distinguished shareholder at Ogletree Deakins, where he specializes in labor and employment law with a focus on delivering strategic solutions for complex workforce challenges. With over two decades of experience, Mark has built a reputation for providing expert counsel to employers across industries on matters such as employment litigation, compliance, and risk management.

Mark’s practice includes representing clients in disputes involving wrongful termination, discrimination, wage and hour claims, and workplace accommodations. He is recognized for his adept handling of sensitive employment matters, navigating the intersection of business goals, regulatory compliance, and employee relations. He is particularly skilled in guiding organizations through issues arising under the ADA, FMLA, Title VII, and other key employment laws.

Prior to joining Ogletree Deakins, Mark honed his legal expertise at leading firms, successfully defending employers in state and federal courts, as well as before administrative agencies. His ability to blend legal acumen with practical business insights has earned him the trust of corporate leaders and HR professionals alike.

In addition to his litigation work, Mark regularly provides proactive advice to clients, including training on workplace policies, internal investigations, and best practices for maintaining compliant and inclusive work environments. His commitment to client success has solidified his role as a trusted advisor to both Fortune 500 companies and mid-sized organizations.

Mark earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois College of Law and is a member of the Illinois, Michigan, and Colorado bar associations. He is a sought-after speaker on employment law topics and has published numerous articles on emerging trends in the field.

When not practicing law, Mark enjoys hiking, golf, and spending time with his wife, Stephanie, dog, Kena, and daughters, Emily and Laura, and most importantly Sebastian their grandson.