Megan McDonald is an associate in Klinedinst PC’s San Diego office, where her practice focuses primarily on appellate, post-trial, and complex law and motion matters. Ms. McDonald has a diverse legal background in civil defense appeals, having successfully handled cases in personal injury, class actions, bad faith, employment, and professional liability.
Ms. McDonald is well-versed in drafting appellate briefs, writ petitions, and significant motions for both state and federal courts. Her analytical skills enable her to research complex legal issues, monitor trials, and maintain comprehensive file responsibility for appeals. Among her notable accomplishments, she partially drafted a successful opposition to a petition for writ of certiorari in the Supreme Court of the United States, drafted a successful motion to disqualify opposing counsel, partially drafted a petition for writ of review granted by the appellate court that led to reversal favoring her client, and significantly reduced her client’s post-trial cost liability through strategic motion practice.
In previous roles, Ms. McDonald oversaw matters involving civil defense litigation, contributing to successful mediations and drafting essential legal documents. Her earlier experience as a clerk with the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority provided her with a solid foundation in landlord-tenant law and compliance, where she created policies that balanced tenant rights with property management needs.
Ms. McDonald’s commitment to justice and advocacy extends back to her judicial externship with the Dakota County District Court, where she researched and drafted judicial orders on complex legal matters, gaining insights into the intricacies of the legal process.
Prior to practicing law, Ms. McDonald enjoyed a career in healthcare software, where she led multiple support teams as a corporate department manager. She developed leadership skills, business insights, and client management expertise that allow her to more readily understand her clients’ perspectives and practical goals.
Education
- Augustana University (B.A.)
- University of St. Thomas School of Law (J.D.)
