Month

April 2011

Corporate Formalities – Why Business Owners Must Keep Personal Lives Separate

Many people form corporations because they heard that it’s important.  It will protect you from liability…  It will make your tax situation better…  There are a lot of reasons your lawyer, your accountant, or even your friends might recommend that you...
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Minnesota Lawyer Recognizes Shawn Vogt Sween as 2011 Up and Coming Lawyer

SHAWN VOGT SWEEN SELECTED AS ONE OF MINNESOTA’S “UP & COMING ATTORNEYS” MINNEAPOLIS, MN – April 22, 2011. It has been announced that Shawn Vogt Sween has been recognized by Minnesota Lawyer as a 2011 “Up and Coming Attorney.” In its eleventh year, this award identifies those...
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Agriculture a “Bright Spot” in a Down Economy – Earnings, Incomes increase in 2010

At a time when many farm families are struggling, it’s encouraging to hear good news about farm profits.  The Star Tribune recently reported that “Agriculture rebounded sharply in Minnesota, but gains weren’t evenly spread.”  Although not all farmers...
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1031 Exchange Transfers – If you’re thinking about doing one, plan ahead!

If you sell land at today’s high land prices, you might face some large capital gains taxes.  If you know that you want to purchase more land though, the US government has provided a way to help you defer those taxes. The IRS outlines its 1031 Deferred Like-Kind Exchange in...
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Estate Tax Hurts Disproportionately Affects Farmers, Ranchers & Business Owners – Repeal Possible?

Periodically we hear about a possible repeal of the estate tax.  The Farm Journal reports that several lawmakers have introduced a bill to repeal the estate tax, citing its disproportionate impact of farmers, ranchers, and business owners.  It’s true that the estate tax...
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Raw Milk and Uninspected Meat – Food Freedom or Safety Issue?

Minnesota man charged with selling unlicensed farm products, including unpasteurized milk and uninspected meat. What does this mean for Minnesota agriculture?
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