Overview
Craig Papka is a trusted advisor and fierce advocate for employers navigating the complexities of labor and employment law. Craig partners with businesses to minimize legal risks, resolve workplace conflicts, and foster positive workplace environments. With a proactive approach, Craig helps employers prevent costly litigation by providing strategic counsel on issues ranging from employee terminations to workplace investigations, compliance with the ADA and FMLA, and crafting effective employee handbooks. His practical, solutions-focused advice makes him a go-to resource for human resource professionals and business leaders.
When disputes escalate, Craig is a tenacious litigator who defends employers with skill and efficiency. He has extensive experience representing clients in state and federal courts and before agencies such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Equal Rights Division (ERD), Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR), and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Whether handling harassment claims, wage disputes, or discrimination cases, Craig’s goal is to protect his clients’ interests while minimizing disruption to their operations.
Craig’s collaborative style, substantial legal knowledge, and approachable demeanor make him a trusted partner for employers in Wisconsin, Illinois, and beyond. Whether resolving workplace challenges with a quick phone call, implementing proactive measures like harassment prevention training programs, or offering practical and timely counsel, Craig is dedicated to helping businesses thrive while minimizing legal risks.
Membership & Involvement
- Member: Milwaukee Bar Association; State Bar of Wisconsin; Metro Milwaukee Society Human Resource Management
- Board of Directors: Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS)
Honors
- Selected to Best Lawyers in America® in Employment Law - Management: 2025, 2026
- Selected to Best Lawyers in America® in Litigation - Labor and Employment: 2025, 2026
- National Law Review Go-To Thought Leader: 2021
Resources & Insights
Speaking Engagements
Blog Posts
Education on Demand
Presenters Bob Simandl and Craig Papka will guide attendees through the key aspects of an effective employment practices audit, identifying pitfalls faced by many employers in the operation and communication of their policies.
Firm News
- Craig Papka Included on Wisconsin Law Journal’s 2025 Powerlist – Employment Law
Craig Papka Included on Wisconsin Law Journal’s 2025 Powerlist – Employment LawCongratulations to Craig Papka who was included on Wisconsin Law Journal’s 2025 Powerlist – Employment Law!
- 137 Amundsen Davis Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers® in 2026 in America
137 Amundsen Davis Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers® in 2026 in AmericaWe are proud to congratulate 137 of our attorneys on being recognized by Best Lawyers® in 2026 in America.
- Amundsen Davis Welcomes Three Senior Labor & Employment Partners in Wisconsin
Amundsen Davis Welcomes Three Senior Labor & Employment Partners in WisconsinAmundsen Davis, a leading full-service business law firm, announces the addition of three senior labor and employment attorneys, Ann Hanneman, Craig T. Papka, and Robert J. Simandl, to its Wisconsin footprint.
- Breakfast Briefing Series: Wage & Hour Check-Up: Is Your Payroll Practice Keeping Up?
Breakfast Briefing Series: Wage & Hour Check-Up: Is Your Payroll Practice Keeping Up?Join Labor & Employment partners Craig Papka and Sara Zorich for a live discussion on navigating employee wage and hour requirements and investigations.
Services
Education
Chicago-Kent College of Law, J.D., 2005
Carthage College, B.A., 1999
Admissions
- Wisconsin
- Illinois
