Real Estate and Banking Counsel Rooted in Practical Experience
I’m a Minneapolis-based attorney working in real estate and banking law, with a career that began in residential real estate and evolved into a focus on complex commercial and financial transactions. I help landowners acquire, lease, sell, and finance real property, and I advise financial institutions on matters such as due diligence, loan documentation, and managing troubled loans.
With experience across commercial, industrial, retail, and renewable energy projects, I guide clients through every stage of the real estate process—from property acquisition and leasing to securing financing tied to income-producing assets and project-based collateral.
Certified Real Property Specialist with Legal and Corporate Insight
As a Certified Real Property Specialist recognized by the Minnesota State Bar Association, I bring extensive real estate law knowledge and experience to each transaction. I’ve also been named to the Minnesota Super Lawyer list and was previously recognized as a Rising Star in 2014—honors that reflect my credibility and long-standing reputation in the legal community.
My professional experience spans large law firms and corporate legal teams, including my time in Target Corporation’s real estate department, where I managed high-volume legal work in a large-scale business environment. This background gives me a versatile, cross-jurisdictional skill set that adapts to an evolving real estate landscape.
Supporting Real Estate and Energy Transactions
I work closely with lenders and developers in renewable energy sectors, including biogas and solar, to structure financing based on real estate collateral and income stream models. My counsel helps these clients navigate fluid regulatory environments and shifting market conditions while maintaining sound banking practices.
Focused on Strategy, Details, and Successful Closings
I enjoy helping clients achieve their goals—whether they’re buying, selling, or leasing commercial real estate—by combining strategic planning with meticulous attention to detail. I focus on both the bigger picture objectives and the transactional steps required to clear title, finalize agreements, and get deals closed efficiently.
For financial institutions, I provide guidance that ensures every party reaches a mutually beneficial closing, helping to reduce risk and keep transactions on track.
Market Awareness and Trend-Responsive Counsel
I stay attuned to changes in the real estate market, particularly those shaped by consumer behavior and the evolving use of retail and office space. Through industry research and ongoing dialogue with clients and other industry professionals, I ensure that my counsel reflects both current market realities and forward-looking strategies.
Teaching and Mentorship
In addition to my legal practice, I’ve served as an Adjunct Professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, where I taught real estate negotiations for over 20 years. My goal is to offer students practical, real-world insights that build confidence in their ability to bring deals together.
Outside the Office
I enjoy hands-on home improvement projects that challenge me in a different way than legal work. I’m also passionate about traveling and exploring new places whenever I have the opportunity.
- Assisted clients with the acquisition of triple net (NNN) leased properties, including sites leased to Starbucks, Dollar General, Red Lobster, Tropical Smoothie, Perkins, and Denny’s.
- Handled office warehouse transactions and negotiated sale–leaseback deals.
- Represented clients in a wide range of commercial real estate matters, including purchase, sale, and leasing of properties.
- Supported biogas developers with land acquisition for renewable energy projects.
- Structured and negotiated solar leases for both community solar and large-scale projects.
- Documented loans for financial institutions and provided enforcement services for troubled loans, including foreclosure.
- Managed foreclosure proceedings for a credit union with more than 30 locations.
- Provided opinion of counsel for a $110 million apartment complex in the North Loop neighborhood of downtown Minneapolis.
- Helped a community bank document a loan in Kentucky for a local client.
- Assisted lenders and title companies in resolving title defects.
- Issued an opinion of counsel for a $17 million loan to a manufactured home park on behalf of a large lender.
Education
- Mitchell Hamline School of Law, Juris Doctorate, Cum Laude
- University of Minnesota
- Metropolitan State University
Bar Admissions
- Minnesota
- National Board of Directors, Theta Chi Fraternity, 2016-2024
- Board President, Theta Chi Fraternity, 2022-2024
- Cover Your Assets with Todd Rooker, Episode: Why You Need a Lawyer, Podcast, September 2024
- MNCAR – Commercial Real Estate Association
- RMA – Risk Management Association – Minnesota Chapter
- Named to the Super Lawyers list 2017-2023
- Named to the Super Lawyers Rising Star list 2014
- Listed in Best Lawyers 2022
