About Karen M. Nelson

With an emphasis on the origination and restructuring of debt secured by real estate assets, Karen Nelson, managing partner of Katten’s Charlotte office, advises on a range of commercial real estate finance matters. Recognized as a leading lawyer by North Carolina Lawyers Weekly and the Charlotte Business Journal, Karen represents commercial banks, investment banks, insurance companies and REITS. She handles matters related to real assets of all types, including office, retail, hotel, apartment, homebuilder, condominium and industrial properties. Karen is also a LEED Accredited Professional.

Practice Focus

  • Commercial real estate finance
  • Loan structures, including single-asset and portfolio
  • Loan originations
  • Mezzanine financings and securitizations
  • Workouts, restructuring and enforcement of creditors' rights
  • Loan portfolio purchases and sales
  • Real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, sale and leaseback transactions, leasing and development

News

Publications

Practices
Education
  • Northwestern University, JD
  • University of Notre Dame, BA
Bar Admissions
  • North Carolina
Recognitions
Recognized or listed in the following:
  • Best Lawyers in America
    Real Estate Law, 2019–2025
    Lawyer of the Year
    Real Estate Law, 2025
  • Charlotte Business Journal
    40 Under 40, 2014
    Women in Business Achievement, 2021
  • North Carolina Lawyers Weekly
    Leader in the Law, 2015
  • Real Estate Forum
    Southeast Woman of Influence, 2015
Award Methodologies