You agree to complete a construction project for a set price. Halfway through, material costs rise or unexpected repairs add thousands of dollars to the estimate. Your customer refuses to pay more, leaving you to cover the difference. In Minnesota, who pays these...
Year: 2026
Jacobsen Law Firm Welcomes Attorney Kathryn M. Burbank
Jacobsen Law Firm, P.A., is pleased to welcome Kathryn M. Burbank to its Northfield office. Kathryn joined the firm in September 2026, bringing a decade of experience in southern Minnesota county attorney’s offices, substantial courtroom experience, and a practical...
What happens when business owners reach a deadlock?
You and your co-owner built the company together. Then a major decision comes up. Maybe the company needs to take on debt, hire a manager or buy property, but neither of you will budge. If each owner has equal voting power, the business may be unable to act. A...
What should a small business include in an employee handbook?
As your business grows, so does your team. A larger team can bring more questions about workplace rules, employee conduct, time off and other day-to-day issues. Written policies give everyone the same expectations and give you a central place to address common...
4 documents to review before buying commercial property
Commercial real estate transactions involve more than agreeing on a price and closing date. Reviewing the right documents before you move forward can reveal legal or financial issues that may affect your future plans or negatively affect your business years after your...
Who should own the commercial property: you or your LLC?
Buying commercial property is a major investment, but deciding who should own it is just as important. Purchasing the property in your own name or through your business can affect liability, financing and your long-term plans. Here are some factors to consider when...
Got a side gig in construction? You may have legal obligations
You may start a construction side hustle with a few weekend projects. A friend needs a deck repaired. A neighbor wants help remodeling a kitchen. Over time, referrals can lead to more jobs and more income. As your workload grows, the legal side of the business can...
Can a handshake deal hurt your Minnesota business?
A handshake deal can feel practical when you trust the other person. Maybe you are hiring a contractor, working with a supplier, sharing equipment with another farmer or bringing in a freelancer for a small project. Everyone agrees on the basics, the work starts and...
You paid a freelancer – who owns the asset now?
You may hire a freelancer to design your logo. You agree on a price, review the work and pay the invoice, and at that point, it can feel like everything is settled and ready to use as part of your business. Many business owners assume payment means ownership, but that...
Does your commercial lease survive a property sale in Minnesota?
Property sales happen. Buildings change hands for countless reasons, and as a commercial tenant, you generally do not have control if your landlord decides to sell. What you can control is understanding your rights when ownership transfers. The good news is that...

