Carlson_Brittany_BIO
Member

J. Brittany Cross Carlson

502-587-2086

Brittany Carlson is a litigator in the Louisville office, where she is a member of the Torts & Insurance and Data Center Service Groups. She manages a national practice focused on the defense of complex product liability, pharmaceutical and medical device claims, medical malpractice, and personal injury matters. She brings strategic insight and practical experience to high-stakes litigation, guiding clients through all stages of dispute resolution—from pre-claim investigations and risk evaluation through trial and appeal. Brittany also regularly advises clients on risk management strategies aimed at reducing exposure and avoiding litigation altogether. In addition to her litigation practice, Brittany advises owners and developers of large-scale data centers across the U.S., supporting fast-paced, technologically complex construction and procurement efforts. Her work includes negotiating, drafting, and managing construction and vendor contracts, ensuring alignment with evolving operational and industry demands. Brittany leverages her litigation experience to bring a practical, risk-aware perspective that helps anticipate where conflicts are most likely to arise. This enables her to advise proactively, helping clients minimize the risk of costly disputes and avoid common pitfalls that can delay or derail major projects.

Recent Assignments

Defend national retailer against contract, product, and premises liability claims in state and federal court

Defending an international medical device manufacturer as a member of the national and regional counsel teams for various devices

Developing discovery strategy and coordinating large-scale e-discovery productions for international medical device manufacturer

Defending Kentucky-area hospitals and physicians in medical malpractice litigation

Kentucky personal injury counsel for leading international beverage manufacturer

Defending wrongful death litigation against an international bakery equipment manufacturer

Defending trucking litigation, including scene investigation, against large professional services providers

Bar Admissions

Kentucky

U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky

U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky

Firm Leadership

Louisville Office Recruiting Committee, Co-Chair

SWIFT (Stites Women Investing in Our Future Together) Committee, Member (2017)

Memberships

American Bar Association

  • Health Law Section

Kentucky Bar Association

Louisville Bar Association

Community Involvement

Asia Institute – Crane House, Secretary and former Vice President

St. Joseph Montessori Children’s Center, Board of Directors Vice President

St. Vincent de Paul Outreach Ministries, Board of Directors

Leadership Kentucky, Class of 2020

Domestic Violence Advocacy Program, Volunteer Attorney

Daughters of the American Revolution, John Marshall Chapter Member

Education

J.D.,

2010

summa cum laude

University of Kentucky College of Law

Org / Honor

Order of the Coif

Kentucky Law Journal, Notes Editor, Volume 98

B.A., History and Philosophy,

2006

magna cum laude

University of Notre Dame

Org / Honor

Phi Alpha Theta Society

John Cabot University, Rome, Italy

More Than Stites & Harbison

Ms. Carlson joined Stites & Harbison in September 2010 after participating in the firm’s summer associate program. Prior to law school, she lived in Chicago where she worked for a litigation consulting and jury research firm. Outside of practicing law, Brittany enjoys overseas travel, cooking for family and friends, and supporting Notre Dame football.

Accolades

Best Lawyers in America®, Commercial Litigation (2025); Product Liability Litigation – Defendants (2023-26)

Best Lawyers in America®, Ones To Watch, Mass Tort Litigation / Class Action – Defendants; and Product Liability Litigation – Defendants (2021)

Kentucky Super Lawyers®, Rising Star (2019-20)