Clayton Carlson

Clayton Carlson works with individuals and corporations to help them navigate their interactions with the government. Throughout his criminal defense, internal investigation, and real estate practices, Clayton guides clients through difficult legal challenges and helps find solutions to complex problems.

In his criminal practice, Clayton represents people who have been charged with a crime, or who are currently under investigation by the government. He has represented clients in connection with allegations ranging from simple to complex, including state-level charges such as theft, DWI, and assault, as well as federal white-collar charges such as fraud. Clayton also represents corporations in internal investigations related to foreign and domestic issues that raise concerns of criminal and regulatory compliance, and assists with other forms of inquiry such as responding to government subpoenas.

Clayton's real estate practice work consists of helping property owners litigate and protect their rights when facing eminent domain proceedings and other disputes with governmental entities. Clayton also assists commercial landlords and tenants in resolving all forms of disputes, including lease disputes and eviction matters. He has additional experience representing construction companies and design professionals in defective design and construction disputes. In his general business litigation work, Clayton focuses on serving corporate clients with a variety of needs, including representing both plaintiffs and defendants on breach of contract, fraud, and other tort claims. In all practice areas, his strategic insight and exceptional attention to detail have made him a trusted advocate for clients.

Clayton received his J.D., magna cum laude, from the University of Minnesota Law School, where he served as a staff member and managing editor of the Minnesota Law Review. While in law school, he also served as judicial extern to the Honorable Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung at the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and worked as a certified student attorney in the criminal division of the Minneapolis City Attorney’s office. Clayton earned his bachelor's degree, summa cum laude, from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.