When I first planned on law school, my goal was to become a judge and right the world's wrongs. But after seeing what we do in our tax credit finance group, I know that I'm in the right place. All we do is find money to build things that improve our neighborhoods and country. I may not be righting the world's wrongs in the same sense I thought I would, but, for example, I have helped keep more than 10,000 apartments affordable, and in 2017 helped double the number of Minnesota residents on solar power. I guess project finance lawyers can change things too.
My Approach
In the tax credit world, there’s a way to get the most value out of your credits, and there are also ways to flush giant quantities of value down the drain. I work with clients to make sure they get the maximum benefit out of federal tax credits, whether they be Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Historic Tax Credits (HTC), Energy Tax Credits or New Markets Tax Credits.
My clients include developers and investors in the solar industry, affordable housing industry, and assisted living business. Some have been working these types of transactions for years. For others this is their first time dealing with tax credits and they can’t afford to get it wrong the first time. Our job is to provide first-time clients a quick working education first and then a continuing expansion of their knowledge and capabilities over time.
I believe deals succeed or not based largely on two things: (1) having the right pro forma, and (2) choosing the right transaction partners. I am lucky to have relationships with great people in the industry, and enjoy the days when I connect developers, lenders, investors to find the right fit for the deal. I also love putting my finance and tax background to use in helping develop or improve the pro forma. The numbers tell me whether the project works or needs tax or other help, and guides the next steps to introduce the right partners to the transaction.
A Groundbreaking Moment in My Career
Practice Areas
Tax Credit Financing & Syndication
Bold Perspectives
Honors & Awards
The Best Lawyers in America©
Real Estate Law, 2018
Rising Stars
Minnesota Law & Politics, 2008
Attorney of the Year
Minnesota Lawyer, 2006
Associations & Memberships
National Association of Bond Lawyers
Minnesota State Bar Association
Taxation Section
