If there is one thing Americans can agree on, it’s that we are glad the 2018 election is over. With multiple targeted Congressional races, an open Governor’s seat, two U.S. Senate races, a competitive and contentious Attorney General battle, a special election for control of the State Senate, and every seat in the Minnesota House …
Primary Recap and General Election Preview
After a busy campaign which resulted in the highest primary voter turn-out since 1982, the August 14 primary election produced some surprises as the ballot was set for the November 6 general election. 2018 promises to be a lively election cycle, given that both U.S. Senate seats, all U.S. House of Representative seats, the …
The NLRB Handbook Ruling: Extents and Limitations
A. The NLRB Handbook Decision: The Boeing Company, 365 NLRB No. 154 (Dec. 14, 2017 On December 14, 2017, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued a decision that overturned thirteen years of precedent that had allowed handbook and work rules to be challenged on the basis that they could be interpreted to affect employee’s …
Beware the Hardworking and Conscientious Employee
Overtime Concerns for Nonprofits The best of intentions can cause unintended problems. Most people who choose to work at nonprofits do so for the sense of purpose and mission. These employees are often willing to volunteer their time or go the extra mile without being asked. Unfortunately, the employees’ willingness to go above and beyond …
Tax Reform Tidbits for Businesses and Individuals
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law on December 22, 2017 (the “Act”) and made significant changes to income tax laws affecting businesses and individuals. This article describes some of the changes that may be of greatest impact to businesses and individuals. Most individual taxpayers are expected to see a reduced tax …
Legal Principles Affect Recreational Water Use: Some Things to Know Before You Boat or Build That Dock
In Minnesota and Wisconsin, water is an essential element of summer recreation. Swimming, boating, fishing, and paddling of all kinds are ubiquitous on our lakes and rivers when the temperatures rise. Because “lake season” is often fleeting, we don’t normally consider legal questions regarding recreational water use. For instance, can the owner of lakefront property …
Minnesota Mechanic’s Liens
Mechanic’s liens are strong tools for contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and others who provide materials and labor for construction projects. They are a statutory creation that provides a path to payment for those in the construction trades. A contractor or supplier can assert a lien and ultimately force a foreclosure sale if they are not fully …
What’s in a Name?
Your business’s name is crucial. It helps customers identify the business and carries its reputation. This is true whether you invest in marketing to grow the brand or let your products and services speak for themselves. For limited liability entities such as corporations and limited liability companies, the business name serves another critical purpose—it is …