Craig Brandt

Member

Minneapolis

(612) 877-5360

(612) 260-9080

Recent News:

Am Law 100 Firm Cozen O’Connor Finalizes its Merger with Minneapolis-based Moss & Barnett

Cozen O’Connor has completed its acquisition by merger of Moss & Barnett, one of Minnesota’s leading law firms, adding more than 50 attorneys and bringing the overall roster to over 1,000 attorneys.

Craig is a seasoned litigator with over 35 years of experience in employment and business law, offering advice and counsel to both employers and employees.

Craig defends employers against claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and whistleblowing, as well as other legal matters in court and administrative proceedings. His extensive experience also includes handling disputes related to employee non-compete agreements and trade secrets, and he represents business executives in contract negotiations and severance discussions. He also advises employers on compliance matters to help prevent employment claims and lawsuits.

In addition to his work with employers, Craig has substantial experience representing employees in discrimination cases, including several major collective action lawsuits. For over 20 years, he was part of a small team of attorneys that secured recoveries exceeding $100 million for clients in these cases. His extensive experience on both sides of complex employment disputes equips him to offer clients a balanced perspective and well-informed guidance.

Known for his approachable style, Craig fosters positive relationships with both clients and adversaries, enhancing the effectiveness of his legal practice. Certified by the Minnesota State Bar Association as a Specialist in Labor and Employment Law, Craig is also recognized as a Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. This certification qualifies him to serve as a civil mediator, and he has previously chaired the Minnesota State Bar Association’s Labor & Employment Law Section.

Craig joined the firm along with his colleagues from Moss & Barnett in 2026. He earned his J.D., with distinction, from the University of Iowa College of Law and his B.A. from Luther College. He is a former member of the board of directors of the Minnesota Justice Foundation, which works to promote the delivery of pro bono legal services by law students in the Twin Cities. Craig is also active in his church, where he has presently serves as Council President and contributes his time as a volunteer lawyer through a pro bono program to assist clients pursuing unemployment compensation claims.

 

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Experience

News

Am Law 100 Firm Cozen O’Connor Finalizes its Merger with Minneapolis-based Moss & Barnett

January 05, 2026

Cozen O’Connor has completed its acquisition by merger of Moss & Barnett, one of Minnesota’s leading law firms, adding more than 50 attorneys and bringing the overall roster to over 1,000 attorneys.

Practice Areas

Education

  • University of Iowa College of Law, J.D., with distinction, 1990
  • Luther University, B.A., 1987

Awards & Honors

MSBA Certified Employment Law Specialist

“Best Lawyers” (2026)

Top Lawyers in Minnesota, Minnesota Monthly (2025)

Minnesota Super Lawyers (2005-2019)

Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent®

 

  • Minnesota
  • U.S. District Court - District of Minnesota
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

Minnesota State Bar Association, Labor & Employment Law Section – Member; Section Governing Council (2006-2008); Section Chairperson (2007-2008)

American Bar Association

Minnesota Justice Foundation, Board of Directors (2010-2017)

Hennepin County Bar Association, volunteer lawyer for unemployment program