Karen M. Hinkley
Partner
- Direct
- (980) 326-1895
- Fax
- (980) 326-1895
- karen.hinkley@dhwlegal.com
Karen Hinkley is a strategic problem solver and a dedicated advocate. She represents clients through every stage of dispute resolution—pre-litigation, mediation, arbitration, trial, and appeal—providing experienced counsel tailored to each phase. In addition to litigation, Karen offers claims analysis, contract review, and consulting services to help clients make informed decisions and prevent costly disputes.
Based in Western North Carolina, Karen serves individuals and businesses alike, with a particular focus on entrepreneurs and small business owners who value practical, forward-thinking legal guidance.
Karen is also certified by the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission to conduct mediated settlement conferences in superior court civil actions. She is available for in-person mediations across Western North Carolina and remote mediations in cases throughout the state.
- North Carolina
- United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina
- United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina
- United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina
- United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
- Washington University in St. Louis, J.D., summa cum laude
- The University of Texas at Dallas, B.A. Psychology, magna cum laude
- Super Lawyers Rising Star, Business Litigation (2024, 2025, 2026)
- Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America, Appellate Practice (2026)
- Business North Carolina Legal Elite, Litigation (2025)
- Business North Carolina Legal Elite, Appellate (2024)
- North Carolina Attorney Pro Bono Honor Society (multiple years)
- National Association of Women Lawyers Outstanding Law Graduate Award (2018)
- Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP
- McGuireWoods LLP
- Judicial Law Clerk, United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
- NC Dispute Resolution Commission Certified Superior Court Mediator
- Gaston County Bar
- North Carolina Bar Association
- Pauli Murray LGBTQ+ Bar Association
- Belmont, NC
- Charlotte, NC