Business Law

Business Services at Nokomis Legal 

Nokomis Legal supports businesses with comprehensive legal services tailored to their unique needs. John Saunders' "Main Street Business" philosophy focuses on providing practical and pragmatic legal advice to the various locally owned and operated businesses and office-based enterprises that form the backbone of our communities. 

Nokomis Legal’s Services 

  • Outside General Counsel: Providing day-to-day legal support, from employment issues to corporate governance. 

  • Real Estate: Assisting businesses with leasing, purchasing, and managing real estate holdings. 

  • Contract Management: Structuring, drafting, negotiating, and closing contracts and commercial transactions. 

  • Corporate Governance: Advising on internal policies, risk management, and strategic business decisions. 

Practical Legal Solutions for Local Businesses 

John Saunders is committed to helping businesses navigate complex legal issues with personalized, hands-on service. He understands the challenges businesses face and is here to provide timely, responsive, and practical legal solutions. 

Why Choose Nokomis Legal? 

  • Personalized Approach: I take the time to understand your business and provide customized legal solutions. 

  • Hands-On Service: You work directly with me, ensuring you receive consistent and accessible legal support. 

  • Commitment to Community: My philosophy is rooted in supporting the growth and sustainability of local businesses. 

  • Cost-Effectiveness: I have experience working in boutique corporate and real estate law firms, but as an independent law firm I can offer clients a cost-effective array of legal services. 

Contact Nokomis Legal 

Reach out to Nokomis Legal to discuss how I can assist with your business legal needs. Let me take care of your legal matters while you focus on growing your business. 

Representative Experience 

Type of Client: Multi-State Independent Grocer 
Client’s Issue: Client wanted to buy two grocery stores in close markets simultaneously from two different sellers 
My Approach: No nonsense, collaborative approach built on years of experience in the independent grocer market and an efficient legal spend 
Result: Two successful closings went off without a hitch simultaneously 

Type of Client: Financial Advisory Firm 
Client’s Issue: Succession planning in the short- and medium-term 
My Approach: Work to understand the client’s business and approach, advise on the available options, make decisions and get it done. 
Result: Phase one of the succession plan is complete! 

Type of Client: Independent Grocer 
Client’s Issue: Selling a store to a competitor 
My Approach: Start with a down the middle, no nonsense form of purchase agreement that has worked on multiple independent grocer transactions, and focus on a successful, efficient closing. 
Result: Store is sold! 

FAQs About Business Law in Minnesota 

  • To start a business in Minnesota, you need to choose a business structure, register your business name, file the necessary formation documents with the Minnesota Secretary of State, obtain required licenses and permits, and comply with local, state, and federal regulations.

  • The common business structures include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. Each structure has different legal and tax implications, so choose the one that best suits your needs.

  • A business contract should clearly outline the terms and conditions, including the scope of work, payment terms, confidentiality agreements, dispute resolution mechanisms, and termination clauses. Both parties should understand and agree to the terms.

  • A business attorney can assist with due diligence, negotiating terms, drafting and reviewing contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance, and facilitating the smooth transition of assets and operations during mergers and acquisitions.