Our Legal Practice Areas

Injuries on Commercial vessels in the Great Lakes and other navigable waters.

Agriculture is a major force in our economy and our community. We understand that, and pride ourselves on being able to understand farm operations and how they work, while recognizing that it isn’t just a business. Agriculture law touches on several important areas that are regulated in different ways. Intersecting laws and rules addressing the environment, natural resources, general business principles, succession to the next generation and transactions control or guide outcomes. We can counsel your decisions for current and future success of any farm, whether it is a large or small operation.

Our lawyers are experienced in:

• Administrative agency representation and appeals
• Agricultural liens and commercial transactions
• Building permits and conditional use permits
• Confined Animal Feeding Operations and other livestock or animal operations
• Drainage rights and runoff
• Environmental regulations and permitting
• Estate and succession planning
• Futures contracts and grain arbitrations
• General agriculture law
• Land acquisition
• Adjacent landowner disputes
• Wind generation and related issues
• Zoning and permitting issues

Many people experience disruptions in income and financial stress after the loss of a job or a serious illness or other unforeseen circumstances. For some, mounting debts from unpaid mortgages, credit cards, medical bills and other debts can overwhelm them and leave them wondering where to turn. If everything you have worked for is being jeopardized by insurmountable debt, you need the guidance of experienced bankruptcy attorneys.

Selling, buying or starting a business requires a great deal of time and effort. We can help you organize your financial information, determine the licenses appropriate for your business, and contact all the official parties before the required deadlines. We can also assist you with Contract Drafting and Review so that your best interests are met. Additionally, we can help you determine the business management structure that would be most lucrative for your endeavor, and limit your potential personal liability.

There are three critical issues to consider when deciding what type of entity will fit your needs:
1. Asset Protection.
2. Management and Maintenance Costs.
3. Tax Minimization.

Oftentimes, when a business owner forms a new entity, they make their selection based on only one consideration. For example, one individual may choose an entity based on minimizing taxes, while another individual will make his/her decision strictly on the basis of asset protection.

Although it is true that every person will base their ultimate decision of what entity to operate based on one principal concern, it is important to consider all of the implications. Each of the “Three Critical Considerations” outlined above provides a basic framework of the major concerns a business owner may have in the operation of his or her business. It is important to get current and accurate information regarding the impact each entity may have in your unique position. Let us help!

• We can represent you if you’re a creditor or a debtor. Let us help come up with strategies either to get back money that you’ve loaned out or to protect you from overeager creditors. Not only can we handle all the paperwork for you, but we also can represent you in court.

We understand! Sometimes you need a criminal defense attorney.

Being accused of a crime is one of the most frightening experiences you may go through. Whether you were stopped and arrested for DUI/DWI, or you and your spouse got into an argument and the police arrested you for domestic violence, or worse, there’s no time to waste in obtaining representation from a local criminal defense attorney.

Whether this is your first encounter with the law or you have a past criminal history, our Glencoe law firm can help defend your rights, mitigate harmful exposure, and build a strong defense to help achieve the best possible outcome. Our legal team will defend you in all stages of your criminal case, from pretrial hearings to trial and beyond.  Our criminal defense lawyers will represent you against offenses such as:

• Drunk driving (DUI/DWI)
• Drug crimes
• Traffic violations
• Domestic violence
• Juvenile crimes
• Theft crimes
• Burglary
• Violent crimes
• Sex crimes
• Kidnapping
• Probation violations
• Expungements

Once again, if you’ve been charged with a crime, it’s important to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our lawyers are experts in criminal law and have a deep understanding of the court system and what it takes to defend your rights. Our counselors will provide legal advice, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court. We’ll also help to identify any potential constitutional or evidentiary issues that could help to reduce your charges or even get the case dismissed. Having an experienced advocate on your side can make the difference between a favorable outcome and a guilty verdict.

Contact one of our criminal defense lawyers today for a consultation.

A child custody lawyer can help you get full custody of your child.

If you want to know how to fight for custody of your children and win, you need the help of a child custody lawyer that specializes in family law. There are several steps involved in fighting for full custody in court, including filing all appropriate paperwork with the court. Child custody cases can be very difficult, but with the right child custody attorney by your side, you have a better chance of making the best decisions for you and your children. You will need to work closely with your child custody lawyer to build a strong case.

Our family law attorneys are committed to helping you protect your personal interests, family and security. We will work to protect your rights involving divorce, child custody, visitation, division of property, adoption, paternity, parenting time and domestic disputes. At every stage, you can trust that we will handle your case with compassion and discretion.

Family legal disputes can touch the most important and personal areas of your life — your finances, your rights and your children. When you are facing a legal dispute involving your family, it is important to consult with an experienced firm that can effectively protect your interests now and into the future. At Gavin, Janssen & Stabenow, Ltd., we offer full-service advocacy to the families throughout the Glencoe, Minnesota, community.

Amicable, Swift, Cost-effective Resolutions

Our law firm places a strong emphasis on providing affordable, strategic advocacy in family law cases, including child custody. We understand that most people seek legal services in a time of need. Our priority is to help you identify your objectives and work towards a lasting solution for our clients. We believe in the benefits of alternative dispute resolution and try to help parties come to an agreement without the intervention of a court. In the event that we cannot resolve your case in mediation or arbitration, we are prepared to take any case to trial. Our family legal team is experienced in:

• Divorce
• Child support
• Child custody
• Parenting time (visitation)
• Paternity
• Spousal maintenance (alimony)
• Property division
• Domestic abuse: defense and orders of protection
• Adoption
• Father’s rights

We provide experienced advocacy and sound counsel to help you move forward. We know that family disputes are emotionally challenging for all parties involved. Our child custody attorneys believe in establishing a solid, lasting relationship with each client. You can trust that we will remain available and attentive to address your needs and concerns until your case is firmly resolved. Whether you are concerned about financial independence after a divorce, gaining custody of a child or protecting your rights in a paternity dispute, we will provide the support, counsel and advocacy necessary to achieve results.

Contact one of our child custody attorneys today for a free consultation.

When facing allegations of child abuse or neglect, the impact on a family can be devastating and long lasting. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or foster parent, these allegations have serious consequences. It is imperative that you act fast and obtain legal representation to guide you during every phase of this matter. As your attorney, we provide you with the advice and representation you need to comply with all aspects of the procedures and requirements, while taking meaningful steps toward reuniting your family.

Each child protection case presents its own unique challenges. No matter the circumstances, we are here to help you, not judge you. Some of the most common allegations we see involve:

• Physical abuse of a child
• Sexual abuse of a child
• Domestic violence in the home (not necessarily directed at the child)
• Parents struggling with alcohol or drug abuse or addiction
• Shaken babies
• Child pornography
• Failure to thrive and child neglect
• Juvenile delinquency
• Truancy (often more than 40 or 50 days absent)

Choosing the right divorce attorney makes all the difference.

Our family law attorneys are committed to helping you protect your personal interests, family and security. We will work to protect your rights involving divorce, child custody, visitation, division of property, adoption, paternity, parenting time and domestic disputes. At every stage, you can trust that we will handle your case with compassion and discretion.

Family legal disputes can touch the most important and personal areas of your life — your finances, your rights and your children. When you are facing a legal dispute involving your family, it is important to consult with an experienced firm that can effectively protect your interests now and into the future. At Gavin, Janssen & Stabenow, Ltd., we offer full-service advocacy to the families throughout the Glencoe, Minnesota, community.

Amicable, Swift, Cost-effective Resolutions

Our law firm places a strong emphasis on providing affordable, strategic advocacy in family law cases. We understand that most people seek legal services in a time of need. Our priority is to help you identify your objectives and work towards a lasting solution for our clients. We believe in the benefits of alternative dispute resolution and try to help parties come to an agreement without the intervention of a court. In the event that we cannot resolve your case in mediation or arbitration, we are prepared to take any case to trial. Our family legal team is experienced in:

• Divorce
• Child support
• Child custody
• Parenting time (visitation)
• Paternity
• Spousal maintenance (alimony)
• Property division
• Domestic abuse: defense and orders of protection
• Adoption
• Father’s rights

We provide experienced advocacy and sound counsel to help you move forward. We know that family disputes are emotionally challenging for all parties involved. Our attorneys believe in establishing a solid, lasting relationship with each client. You can trust that we will remain available and attentive to address your needs and concerns until your case is firmly resolved. Whether you are concerned about financial independence after a divorce, gaining custody of a child or protecting your rights in a paternity dispute, we will provide the support, counsel and advocacy necessary to achieve results.

Get a free consultation with one of our Glencoe divorce lawyers.

We help individuals and families plan for themselves and their elderly relatives. Our attorneys are also experienced with the complexities of elder and disability law. We will help you protect your investments, your family and your health.

Elder law is a growing practice area focused on the legal needs of the elderly population. From estate planning to powers of attorney and health care directives, our elder law and disability attorneys can help you protect your individual interests and your loved ones. At Gavin, Janssen & Stabenow, Ltd., we have helped our elderly clients and their families make appropriate planning arrangements and handle disputes involving estates, medical care and the financial interests.

Trusted advocacy since 1939

What is estate planning and how does an estate planning attorney help?

Estate planning is a process of making plans for one’s assets and property. It helps you decide how to distribute your assets after your death, who will be in charge of making decisions regarding your health care, who will manage any remaining assets, and more.

Our estate planning attorneys have seen multiple generations since our founding in the community in 1939. When creating an estate plan, you want to discuss your concerns with an established firm that will also be here for generations to come. We have extensive experience in estate planning and will work with you to create a tailored and lasting plan that protects you and your loved ones. In addition to estate planning, we also provide guidance and counsel to clients facing estate or probate disputes.

It is never too late to create or modify an estate plan for yourself or an elderly loved one. Taking the time now to make proper legal arrangements can ensure that your rights are protected and prevent future legal disputes between family members. If you are an elderly person without an estate plan, or you are interested in developing a comprehensive estate plan for a loved one, our estate planning lawyers can help. We are experienced in the creation of wills and trusts, powers of attorney, conservatorships and guardianships to protect the interests of our clients. Each case is different, and every family faces unique challenges. We will develop an estate plan according to your individual needs.

Our estate planning lawyers are experienced in:

• Estate plans
• Wills and trusts
• Conservatorships
• Guardianships
• Health care directives
• Probate disputes
• Estate litigation

What is an estate planner?

An estate planner is a professional that advises people on the best ways to plan for the future. An estate planner will help clients with the following:

• Financial planning
• Tax planning –
• Retirement planning
• Estate and legacy planning
• Long term care planning

Is estate planning tax deductible?

Estate planning is not only a way to plan for your future. It can also be a tax deduction.

The IRS allows you to deduct the cost of an estate plan from your taxable income. This includes items such as wills, living trusts, and powers of attorney. It does not include funeral expenses or any other costs associated with death.

It is important that you have an estate plan in place before you pass away because it will help protect your family’s assets and make sure that they are distributed according to your wishes. Having an estate plan in place could save your family time and money during their time of need.

Contact us today to talk with one of our estate planning lawyers.

Our family law attorneys are committed to helping you protect your personal interests, family and security. We will work to protect your rights involving divorce, child custody, visitation, division of property, adoption, paternity, parenting time and domestic disputes. At every stage, you can trust that we will handle your case with compassion and discretion.

Family legal disputes can touch the most important and personal areas of your life — your finances, your rights and your children. When you are facing a legal dispute involving your family, it is important to consult with an experienced firm that can effectively protect your interests now and into the future. At Gavin, Janssen & Stabenow, Ltd., we offer full-service advocacy to the families throughout the Glencoe, Minnesota, community.

Amicable, Swift, Cost-effective Resolutions

Our firm places a strong emphasis on providing affordable, strategic advocacy in family law cases. We understand that most people seek legal services in a time of need. Our priority is to help you identify your objectives and work towards a lasting solution for our clients. We believe in the benefits of alternative dispute resolution and try to help parties come to an agreement without the intervention of a court. In the event that we cannot resolve your case in mediation or arbitration, we are prepared to take any case to trial. Our family legal team is experienced in:

• Divorce
• Child support
• Child custody
• Parenting time (visitation)
• Paternity
• Spousal maintenance (alimony)
• Property division
• Domestic abuse: defense and orders of protection
• Adoption
• Father’s rights

We provide experienced advocacy and sound counsel to help you move forward. We know that family disputes are emotionally challenging for all parties involved. Our attorneys believe in establishing a solid, lasting relationship with each client. You can trust that we will remain available and attentive to address your needs and concerns until your case is firmly resolved. Whether you are concerned about financial independence after a divorce, gaining custody of a child or protecting your rights in a paternity dispute, we will provide the support, counsel and advocacy necessary to achieve results.

Whether you’re filing a civil suit (plaintiff), are being sued (defendant) or are appealing a previous judgment, a litigation and appeals lawyer can help. As litigation and appeals attorneys, we can handle a broad range of disputes arising in business, real estate, contracts, personal and commercial settings. We’re here to help!

We provide experienced representation for cities, townships, school districts, utility commissions, power districts and other local governments.

Our family law attorneys are committed to helping you protect your personal interests, family and security. We will work to protect your rights involving divorce, child custody, visitation, division of property, adoption, paternity, parenting time and domestic disputes. At every stage, you can trust that we will handle your case with compassion and discretion.

Family legal disputes can touch the most important and personal areas of your life — your finances, your rights and your children. When you are facing a legal dispute involving your family, it is important to consult with an experienced firm that can effectively protect your interests now and into the future. At Gavin, Janssen & Stabenow, Ltd., we offer full-service advocacy to the families throughout the Glencoe, Minnesota, community.

Amicable, Swift, Cost-effective Resolutions

Our firm places a strong emphasis on providing affordable, strategic advocacy in family law cases. We understand that most people seek legal services in a time of need. Our priority is to help you identify your objectives and work towards a lasting solution for our clients. We believe in the benefits of alternative dispute resolution and try to help parties come to an agreement without the intervention of a court. In the event that we cannot resolve your case in mediation or arbitration, we are prepared to take any case to trial. Our family legal team is experienced in:

• Divorce
• Child support
• Child custody
• Parenting time (visitation)
• Paternity
• Spousal maintenance (alimony)
• Property division
• Domestic abuse: defense and orders of protection
• Adoption
• Father’s rights

We provide experienced advocacy and sound counsel to help you move forward. We know that family disputes are emotionally challenging for all parties involved. Our attorneys believe in establishing a solid, lasting relationship with each client. You can trust that we will remain available and attentive to address your needs and concerns until your case is firmly resolved. Whether you are concerned about financial independence after a divorce, gaining custody of a child or protecting your rights in a paternity dispute, we will provide the support, counsel and advocacy necessary to achieve results.

Hire a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

Our Glencoe MN personal injury attorneys work to maximize compensation for the victims and families of serious injuries or wrongful deaths involving car crashes, truck crashes, construction accidents, farm accidents, premises liability, workplace injuries, defective products, medical malpractice and many other accident injuries. Our McLeod County personal injury lawyers will take a strategic and comprehensive approach to ensure you get the coverage and financial support you deserve.

Any serious injury is a major setback, personally and financially. When you or someone you love has suffered in a motor vehicle crash or other accident, it is important to consult with an experienced advocate who can protect your rights and security. At Gavin, Janssen & Stabenow, LTD, our personal injury attorneys are committed to helping victims and families move forward after an accident.

Our law firm will initiate an immediate investigation to collect and preserve all relevant evidence for your claim and work with experts, consult with witnesses, and review medical documentation in your case. Do not settle with an insurance company before consulting with a personal injury lawyer who can help determine the full value of your claim. We will take a comprehensive approach to ensure you get the coverage you need now and into the future.

When you work with our law firm, you can trust that your case will be handled by a highly reputable, skilled and established team of legal counsel. We will help navigate the process to protect your rights and defend your interests against insurance companies. Our priority is to secure compensation for injuries, lost wages and other damages. We are experienced with personal injury claims involving:

• Motor vehicle accidents: car, truck, motorcycle
• ATVs
• Airplane accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Defective products
• Medical malpractice
• Recreational vehicle or equipment accidents
• Dog bites
• Slip-and-fall, including ice, snow, water and raised surfaces
• Wrongful death
• Worker’s compensation

We offer free consultations in our personal injury cases, meaning there is no risk in contacting our firm. After you are injured, we will take the time to review the facts of your case, collect necessary evidence and pursue your recovery. We will work towards settlement with insurance carriers and defendants, but in the event we cannot reach a settlement in your case, we are prepared to take it to trial. If we do not recover, you do not pay any fees.

Get a free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers now.

What is Real Estate Law? Do you need a real estate lawyer?

Real estate law is a broad category of laws that govern the sale, purchase, and ownership of real property, such as land, condos, houses, commercial buildings. This area of law encompasses everything from buying and selling houses to limiting liability for landlords to offering protections for people who live in rental properties.

As real estate attorneys, we are trained to address the legal issues surrounding property interactions. We represent both organizations and individuals. Real estate documents we typically handle are purchase agreements, mortgage documents, title documents and transfer documents. In some cases, our real estate law firm helps individual homebuyers close on houses and other property.

Occasionally, homebuyers face contractual issues that are best handled by legal professionals. If you and your agent are concerned about a specific legal issue, it’s best to seek out a real estate lawyer. For example, there may be a tenant on part of the property, or you may want to rent the property out for a certain period of time. Or maybe a tax lien has been imposed on the property and you’re unsure of its implications. The bottom line? In the face of complex language or atypical situations, real estate attorneys can provide invaluable help. We can help!

Talk with one of our real estate attorneys today.

Traffic violations can result in lost wages and even the loss of a job. These violations can range from simple parking tickets, to speeding, to reckless driving. Some tickets may go on your record, while others won’t. Bottom line, many traffic violations can require legal advice. Let us help!

Do you need a trust set up on your behalf? Are you managing a trust? Are you looking for a reliable and impartial trustee? Sometimes these are complex issues with a lot on the line. If you have a child or relative receiving public benefits, they may need the protection of a Special Needs Trust. Contact Gavin, Janssen and Stabenow, LTD to get the trusted legal help you need in these situations.

Wills and trusts aren’t just for the wealthy. We put estate plans in reach for everyone. Make sure your estate and children and properly taken care of by calling our office. We’ll ensure your legacy lives on as you intended.

For more information or to talk to lawyer in the Glencoe, Minnesota area about how we can help you, please call 320-864-5142. We can also be reached by email.