Karen Nielsen

Karen Nielsen is a legal professional with extensive experience in public defense and advocacy. Currently serving as Deputy Counsel at the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Karen previously held the position of Staff Attorney at the Advocacy Center of Tompkins County, providing legal support to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Karen's prior roles include Deputy Public Defender at Maricopa County, where a significant felony caseload was managed, and law clerk in the Maricopa County Public Defender's Office, contributing to various successful motions and outreach initiatives. Academic qualifications include a Doctor of Philosophy in Justice Studies and a Juris Doctor from Arizona State University, alongside a Master’s in Social Justice and Human Rights.