The law is a service profession; we exist to help others succeed.
Contact: P /612.604.6638E /[email protected]
Education
University of Minnesota Law School, J.D., magna cum laude, 1981
Gustavus Adolphus College, B.A., magna cum laude, 1977
Bar Admissions
Minnesota, 1981
I set out to get an “A” on everything I do. That means doing the best job I can, in as timely a manner as possible. Every day, I work with that in mind for closely held businesses and business owners who are selling or buying a business, obtaining financing, negotiating shareholder arrangements, bringing in investors or partners, or dealing with shareholder disputes, should they arise. I also advise many clients on business succession planning, as well as ongoing issues in day-to-day operations.
One of my favorite aspects of serving clients is learning how others think and work through issues. I approach all of my work with pragmatism, efficiency and thoroughness, to keep your business going. I am lucky to have been exposed to all types of businesses, such as those in the manufacturing, agriculture, distribution industries, as well as with banks and other financial institutions.
People only call their lawyer when they have a serious problem and need help. I take great pride in responding promptly and helping them solve their problems in as efficient a manner as possible. When I get the chance, I take hunting and fishing very seriously, and I work hard to earn a “Best Granddad” mug every year.
Several years ago, I left my successful career as a shareholder at Winthrop & Weinstine to become Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel at a client’s business. Leaving the firm made me realize how much I thrive on the frenzy and the pressure of this work, and how much I like helping people solve problems. I needed to see it from the outside to really appreciate it. When I finally realized it was time to come back, I didn’t even talk to any other law firms. Why would I? I knew my home was at Winthrop.
I represent closely held business and business owners, usually when it involves buying or selling a business, a business divorce, financing, or to do ongoing legal work. I represent clients in a range of industries, including petroleum distribution, plastic extruders, aircraft manufacturers, banks, agricultural co-ops, and manufacturing.
I represent business organizations in their creation and organization, capital development (whether debt or equity), negotiating shareholder arrangements, dealing with shareholder disputes, merger and acquisition work when clients sell their businesses or acquire other businesses as well as assisting closely-held clients as they work through business succession issues.
Mergers & Acquisitions Law, 2021-2024
I have represented banks and lenders ranging in size from small community banks to global money center banks in connection with literally hundreds, if not thousands, of loans and other financial accommodations extended to business borrowers. The nature of these loans has ranged from real estate loans to conventional working capital lines of credit and term loans, letters of credit, asset based loans, mezzanine loans and literally any other form of financing you can imagine. The size of these financial accommodations ranges from less than $1 million to in excess of $750 million, with the bulk of the transactions occurring in the $20 million and smaller range.
Mergers & Acquisitions Law, 2021-2024
2006-2021
2009
LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell, Peer review ratings
Board Member