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With the government shutdown behind us, the Farm Service Agency can get back to work helping farmers. One way they do that is to offer loans to farmers and ag enterprises. There are a number of loan products, as identified here.  My office provides title work to FSA offices who... READ MORE

There are many legal and valid ways for families to avoid the probate process altogether. A good lawyer will help you avoid probate in many circumstances and save fees in the process. READ MORE

The Atlantic magazine recently published a great article about family farms and how they’ve weathered changes on the industry to become hugely successful. This is the type of farming I see in my corner of Minnesota. The farms are all owned by families. While they may have... READ MORE

Back in January, I wrote about a proposed rule from the Department of Labor that might have prevented farm kids from working on the farm or operating certain farm equipment deemed too dangerous for children.  Apparently, the DOL and the Obama administration have been taking heat... READ MORE

I was talking with a local banker yesterday who has been through several up and down cycles in farm lending and ag land. My question to him was, “Do you think this is a bubble?  Are prices going to crash at some point?”  That seems to be the question of the hour in... READ MORE

Consider whether your lawyer understands the issues you face as a farmer, a rural business owner, a small town resident. READ MORE

A recent article about a proposal in Colorado caught my eye.  Lawmakers there are proposing that farm youths be allowed to obtain a driver’s license at age 14 1/2.  The goal is to allow younger people to help out with the driving to and from farm properties.  Let’s... READ MORE

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... READ MORE

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... READ MORE

I think it’s important that my clients know what to expect when they hire me, and part of that is knowing about my values.  I am a lawyer, and that means I will advocate for my client’s position.  You might think of me as a counseled adviser who speaks on you... READ MORE