About Karen
Karen A — Doner is the founding partner of Doner Law, PLC, situated in Tysons Corner, Virginia. With over 25 years of experience in employment law and commercial litigation, she has established a robust practice that serves clients in federal and state courts across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Her nationwide reach allows her to tackle a variety of legal challenges, providing comprehensive representation tailored to each client's needs. Ms. Doner earned her Juris Doctor from Loyola University Chicago School of Law in 1996. Prior to that, she completed her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Delaware in 1993. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for her extensive legal career.
She is admitted to practice in multiple jurisdictions, including Virginia, the District of Columbia, Florida, Maryland, and Illinois, which enhances her ability to represent clients in diverse legal matters. At Doner Law, PLC, Ms. Doner focuses on many employment law issues. Her expertise encompasses employment contracts, severance agreements, employee handbooks, family and medical leave, and disability accommodations. She also addresses discrimination claims, wage-hour disputes, and disciplinary and termination matters. In addition to her employment law practice, Ms. Doner handles commercial litigation cases involving breach of contract, partnership disputes, franchise issues, intellectual property, and various tort claims.
This dual focus allows her to provide comprehensive legal services to businesses and individuals alike. Before founding Doner Law, PLC, in 2015, Ms. Doner co-founded Roth Doner Jackson, PLC, in 2010. Her prior experience includes serving as a partner at Williams Mullen, PC, where she made history by becoming the first woman elected to the firm's Board of Directors. This leadership role not only showcased her legal acumen but also her commitment to advancing women in the legal profession. Her career trajectory reflects a dedication to both her clients and the broader legal community. Ms.
Doner's achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has been named a "Virginia Super Lawyer" for Employment Litigation: Defense/Business Litigation from 2014 to 2025 and a "Washington D.C. Super Lawyer" from 2015 to 2022. Additionally, she was recognized as a "Benchmark Labor & Employment Star" by Benchmark Litigation: Labor & Employment Guide from 2019 to 2023. Her contributions to the legal field extend beyond her practice; she served on the Fairfax County Circuit Court Committee from 2004 to 2007 and co-chaired the Employment Law Section of the Montgomery County, Maryland, Bar Association. Through these roles, Ms. Doner has demonstrated her commitment to legal excellence and community service.
