About Linda Holstein
From High School English Teacher to Trial Lawyer to Mediator
I began my adult work life as a High School English Teacher and Theater Director in the Mankato, Minnesota public school district. After moving to Minneapolis, I was recruited as the Head Drama Coach at Hopkins Eisenhower High School, where I taught English and directed One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and Godspell. I loved teaching and performing, skills that served me well at the University of Minnesota Law School, where I was an Editor of the Minnesota Law Review, and graduated cum laude in 1983.
My forty-year career as a successful trial lawyer and litigator in Minnesota always reflected three core values:
- commitment to the rule of law
- deep respect for the independence and integrity of the federal judiciary
- continued willingness to train and educate younger attorneys
In 2006, I formed my own law firm, with the support and backing of loyal clients who trusted my judgment and appreciated my work ethic and excellent results.
In 2019, after representing clients in court-ordered and private mediations for four decades, I obtained my Minnesota Supreme Court Rule 114 licensure as a certified civil mediator. The experience and practical wisdom I gained as a trial lawyer, law partner and owner, legal education trainer, and active negotiator have served me well in the “twisting arms” world of mediation!
Education
Minnesota CLE
Certified Mediation
Skills Training (2019)
University of Minnesota Law School
Juris Doctorate
cum laude (1983)
Minnesota Law Review
Note and Comment
Editor (1981-83)
University of Minnesota
B.S. English/Speech/
Theater with High Distinction (1970)
Awards and Professional Recognition
Selected by Minnesota attorneys and judges / Martindale Hubbell
2024
AV Preeminent Attorney
Highest possible rating in both Legal Ability and Ethical Standards
Society of Professional Journalists
2022
First Place, Best Column
“Working It” Twin Cities Business magazine
University of Minnesota College Of Education and Human Development
2010
Distinguished Alumni Award
Linda was recognized for an outstanding career spanning education and law,
as evidenced by her consistent selection as one of the
state’s top attorneys
American Bar Association and American Bar Foundation Fellow
1995 - Present
American Bar Foundation Life Fellow
1/3 of 1% of licensed Minnesota attorneys are chosen as ABA fellows; honorees include attorneys, judges, faculty, and legal scholars who have shown outstanding dedication to the highest principles of the legal profession and the welfare of their communities.
Elected as Fellow in 1995, became a Life Fellow in 2010
Federal Bar Association
Past President, Federal Bar Association, Minnesota, and Past National Vice-President for the Eighth Circuit FBA
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