Kathryn H. Bennett

The words often used to describe Katie Bennett are “passionate” and “fighter.” Specializing in federal civil rights and catastrophic personal injury cases, she confronts formidable adversaries, including police departments and insurance companies, to seek justice for those who have been harmed. Proficient in all aspects of legal proceedings, Katie handles a spectrum of cases, from jail suicides to use of excessive force incidents, along with personal injury claims resulting in severe injury or death. Notably, she recently served as lead counsel for a client who suffered grave injuries, including the eventual loss of both arms below the elbows, while incarcerated at Scott County Jail in Shakopee, Minnesota. Her efforts resulted in a landmark $12.2 million settlement, the largest recovery in Minnesota for constitutional claims against a jail under the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments. In 2023, Katie played a pivotal role in securing nine-figure settlements in two cases eerily reminiscent of George Floyd’s murder. Both cases, dating back to 2017, involved excessive force claims against officer Derek Chauvin, who later killed George Floyd in 2020. Advocating for the marginalized runs deep in Katie's family history, shaped by her father's legacy as a prominent civil rights and personal injury lawyer. Together with the civil rights team at Robins Kaplan, Katie tackles groundbreaking cases and exposes systemic corruption in the courtroom. She even played a key role in negotiating a $20 million "transformational" settlement in the Section 1983 wrongful death case involving the murder of Justine Ruszczyk by Minneapolis Police officer Mohamed Noor. These outcomes underscore her commitment to advocating for the underdog and holding those who abuse power accountable. Katie’s clients have a deep appreciation for her understanding of the tragedies they are facing. Her strategic and organized approach alleviates their anxieties, allowing them to focus on personal healing and family needs. Her exceptional contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including being named a "Top Woman in Law," and an "Attorney of the Year" by Minnesota Lawyer, recognized as a "Minnesota Rising Star" by Super Lawyers for the past decade, honored as a "Leading Civil Rights & Plaintiff Employment Lawyer" by Lawdragon in 2023, and listed in "The Best Lawyers in America" for 2024 and 2023.