Not  Guilty, Means Everything
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Aaron A. Nelson

Criminal Defense Attorney

“As one of the most experienced trial lawyers in the state, I've spent decades dialing in my practice and my process. I like to think the reason for my successful results is simply that I care more. I put in more time, more thought, and pay more attention to the details. I ask the questions nobody else is willing to ask, and I come up with solutions that nobody else sees.”

CONTACT ME

Your life is worth defending.
Aaron A. Nelson

Nelson Defense Group is the shield that protects you –
giving voice to your story when it matters most.

Aaron discussing a case
Aaron working with NDG attourneys
Aaron cross examining

About
Aaron A. Nelson

BIO

For nearly three decades, Aaron A. Nelson has been recognized as one of Wisconsin’s leading criminal defense attorneys, respected for his performance in the courtroom, his creative arguments, and his unwavering dedication to protecting his clients. He has built his career on his belief that every person has unconditional dignity, is presumed innocent, and thus deserves a strong defense and the chance to have their story heard.



 

Career Highlights


 

  • Named among Wisconsin’s Top 50 Super Lawyers in Criminal Defense every year from 2011 to 2025.

  • Named one of Wisconsin’s top 50 Super Lawyers, one of the few attorneys outside the Madison or Milwaukee metro area recognized as being included on the Top 50 list.   

     

  • Holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest level of professional excellence and ethical standards.

     

  • Recipient of the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (WACDL) Martin Hanson Advocates Prize a record eight times (2008, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2021, and 2024).

     

  • Honored with the David C. Niblack Award from WACDL in 2014, recognizing outstanding contributions to the defense of those unable to afford legal representation.

     

  • Past President of the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and long-time WACDL
    Board member.


Practice and Leadership

 

In 2023, Aaron co-founded Elite Defense Group alongside two other accomplished defense attorneys, continuing to serve clients across Wisconsin in complex criminal cases, including homicide, sexual assault, OWI, and other serious felonies and misdemeanors.

Beyond the courtroom, Aaron is committed to advancing the practice of criminal defense. He frequently shares his expertise as a speaker and instructor at legal education programs throughout Wisconsin—including the Wisconsin State Public Defender Conference and Trial Skills Training—as well as nationally at events such as the NACDL, National College for Criminal Defense (NCDC), and Barry Cohen’s annual OWI seminar.

Aaron’s work reflects a steadfast commitment to justice and to defending the rights and dignity of every individual he represents.

AWARDS

Advocates Prize: Martin Hanson Memorial

2008 – Dunn County 
2013 – Douglas County
2014 – Douglas County
2015 – Pierce County
2016 – Chippewa County
2017 – Dunn County 
2021 – Saint Croix County
2024 – Saint Croix County

David C. Niblack Award-2014

Superlawyer 2011-2025

Kuchler-Nicholson-Stilling Sensitive Crimes Award

2023 – St. Croix County
2024 – Pierce County

EDUCATION

University of Wisconsin Law School, Madison - J.D.

 

University of Wisconsin - B.A.
Honors: magna cum laude