2026 Top Women in Law: Mary Nikolai

Gustafson Gluek congratulates Mary Nikolai on being selected a Top Women in Law by Minnesota Lawyer. This award recognizes the outstanding achievements of women in the legal profession across Minnesota, celebrating their excellence, leadership, and commitment to the legal community.

Since joining Gustafson Gluek in 2019, Mary Nikolai has established herself as a highly accomplished litigator and leader in complex consumer protection, product defect, data privacy, and employment litigation. Her work has contributed to significant results nationwide while strengthening Gustafson Gluek's reputation as a leader in litigation.

Mary's legal skill, leadership, and dedication have earned recognition both within and outside the firm. She was promoted to Partner effective January 1, 2026, reflecting her substantial contributions to the firm's success and long-term growth. She was recognized as a Minnesota Attorney of the Year in 2022 for her work in a Federal Tort Claims Act case against the Veterans Affairs Medical Center and was named a Minnesota Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2025.

During Operation Metro Surge, Mary's community impact extended far beyond her own volunteer efforts. She brought together attorneys from Minnesota and across the country, helping create networks to respond to urgent detention cases. She organized training programs, shared practical resources, and mentored attorneys who were new to habeas corpus litigation, enabling them to provide meaningful assistance to detained individuals and their families. Her leadership multiplied the number of attorneys able to respond and expanded access to justice throughout the community.

Join us in congratulating Mary on her well-deserved recognition!