Kathleen M. Minahan

Experience

Kathleen Minahan is a tenacious and results-driven first-chair litigator with a proven track record defending public entities and private corporations in high-stakes litigation. Her practice spans commercial litigation, constitutional law, labor and employment, and civil rights, including trials, appeals, and dispute resolution at the state and federal levels.

With experience as general counsel and executive officer of a publicly traded company, Kathleen brings an invaluable business perspective to the courtroom and boardroom. She’s trusted for her strategic thinking, precise execution, and ability to navigate legal issues ranging from regulatory compliance and M&A to employment and environmental matters.

Kathleen’s expertise includes:

• Public and private sector litigation
• Employment discrimination and civil rights defense
• Government liability and constitutional claims
• Contract disputes and wrongful death actions
• SEC compliance, business transactions, and corporate governance
• Managing legal departments and outside counsel operations

Notable Results

• Jail Excessive Force Case– Sanctions awarded after proving conspiracy involving inmates
• Civil Rights Litigation– Prevailing on summary judgment for high-profile inmate claims
• GCRTA Litigation– Directed strategy for complex employment and constitutional defense
• Legionella Exposure Case– Minimized liability through rapid, transparent response
• SEC-Regulated Corporate Counsel– Led merger, asset sales & multi-million-dollar contracts

Presentations and Thought Leadership

• “Overview: Employment Considerations, Ohio Emergency Legislation and COVID-19”, The Update, OACTA
• “H.B. 352: Clarifies Ohio’s Employment Discrimination Statutes”, MRR.com

Professional and Civic Engagement

• Member, LawPact®
• Admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, Northern District and Eastern Michigan, Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit, and all Ohio courts
• Member, Ohio State and Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Associations

Recognition and Honors

• Inducted into Court of Nisi Prius
• Appointed to U.S. District Court Northern Ohio Advisory Group, 2021–2024
• Certified by National Incident Management System (NIMS)
• President’s Club Award, Corporate legal executive, 2005

Kathleen’s skill in crisis navigation, litigation strategy, and organizational leadership makes her a formidable advocate and advisor.