Donald Peder Johnsen
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Don’s clients include small and large companies alike. Regardless of the complexity, size, or reach of the matter, human resource staff and executives frequently consider Don a member of the core “team” when it comes to planning for, mitigating, managing, and defending employment claims. A formidable advocate both in and out of court, Don is known for his persuasive arguments and honed negotiation skills when protecting his client’s bottom line. Notably, he is valued for legal counsel that is streamlined, utilitarian, and effectual.

Committed to ensuring that each client’s goals drive the legal agenda, Don helps business professionals understand and apply state and federal employment laws, rules, and regulations, which can be unclear and even contradictory. He is at his best mitigating potential problems, assessing liability, partnering with clients, and assisting them to move beyond employment challenges by devising solutions that make a difference.

From more than three decades of practice, Don knows that employee challenges are not always overcome with one-size-fits-all solutions. As a result, he is appreciated for his creativity, natural people skills, and ability to navigate the often emotional side of employment conflicts. His calming demeanor allows him to address and overcome serious acrimony while being responsive to management when addressing other aspects of their day-to-day employment matters.

Recognized among the best of the best in employment and labor law, Don has been consecutively recognized as a Best Lawyer by Best Lawyers of America since 2007. Before joining Gallagher & Kennedy, Don practiced employment and labor law with Faegre Drinker in Minneapolis and served as a judicial clerk for the late Honorable Clement F. Haynsworth, Jr., U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit.

Jacquie Wishnewsky

Pink Jeep Tours

The team at Gallagher & Kennedy is by far the most responsive of the few dozen I have worked with in my career. They have deep experience covering all aspects of real estate law pertinent to my business. They always exhibit the utmost professionalism and ensure the transaction is not only seamless but is completed in a cost-effective manner. I have recommended many colleagues use the firm and will continue to do so.

Best Lawyers

Client Comment

Don Johnsen from the Gallagher & Kennedy firm is always a pleasure to work with on employment matters. In addition to assisting with issues as they arise, he also assists with proactive measures, such as employee training.

Best Lawyers

Client Comment

Don Johnsen of Gallagher & Kennedy is always a pleasure to work with on employment matters. In addition to assisting with issues as they arise, he also assists with proactive measures, such as employee training.

Michael Wright

Blue Ridge Unified School District

Gallagher & Kennedy and its representatives are responsive and helpful in providing relevant information and details when any changes occur. Gallagher & Kennedy has represented our district successfully on numerous occasions resulting in positive outcomes for our district and taxpayers. We often work with Don Johnsen who is responsive, knowledgeable, and very effective when called upon to represent our district.

Joe Walsh

Arizona Diamondbacks

In the critical area of litigation, labor and employment, our experience with Gallagher & Kennedy has also been invaluable. With the litigious nature of many allegations and claims, depend on the speed, integrity and truthfulness of a law firm partner - Gallagher & Kennedy has once again has turned in very positive efforts and results in areas that we truly needed their expertise.