About Karen Waters
Karen Waters Shields practices personal injury law at Kean Miller LLP in New Orleans, Louisiana. She joined the firm as a partner in 2006, bringing experience in various legal areas, including products liability, construction law, energy, oil and gas law, and maritime law. The office is located in the heart of New Orleans. This lets the attorney serve clients throughout the region effectively — She earned her J.D. from Tulane University School of Law in 1998. Prior to that, she obtained a B.A.
in Anthropology and Human and Natural Ecology from Emory University in 1993. Her legal career began shortly after law school, when she worked as a law clerk in 1999, followed by a role as a lawyer in 2000. Over the years, she has developed a robust practice that addresses complex legal issues for her clients. Most of her work involves representing clients in personal injury cases, where she navigates the details of Louisiana law. She also handles cases related to maritime law, which requires a understanding of both state and federal regulations. Cases typically progress through various legal stages, including pre-trial motions, discovery, and trial.
Her extensive knowledge of products liability and construction law further enhances her ability to advocate for her clients. Before becoming a partner at Kean Miller, she gained valuable insights from her diverse experiences in different legal environments. This background allows her to approach cases with a comprehensive perspective. She is experienced in the legal intricacies of the jurisdictions she practices in, including the United States District Courts for the Middle, Eastern. Western Districts of Louisiana, as well as the 5th Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Court.
Karen holds a Certificate of Specialization in Admiralty Law, which shows her commitment to understanding the nuances of maritime legal issues. She is an active member of several professional associations, including the Louisiana State Bar, the Federal Bar Association, and the American Bar Association. Her involvement in the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association and the Women’s Energy Network, Southeast Louisiana Chapter, reflects her dedication to supporting women in the legal and energy sectors. With her extensive background and commitment to her practice areas, Karen Waters Shields continues to be a prominent figure in the New Orleans legal community. She is known for her tenacity and thoroughness in representing her clients. Her diverse expertise and active participation in professional organizations position her as a leader in her field, making her a valuable resource for those seeking legal assistance in personal injury and related areas.
