William M. Burns, Hanft Fride Law Firm

Shareholder, Hanft Fride Law Firm

What are the biggest challenges you currently see in the M&A world?

Providing high quality comprehensive service tailored to a client’s situation and need without cutting corners and without bankrupting the client; keeping a strong trained team committed and dedicated to the client’s goals; and competing with Metro firms who dominate the market. Our team of Mark Pilon, Brent Malnick, Jesse Smith and I remains intact which makes the challenges manageable.

Without revealing the names of a client, what is the most interesting transaction you’ve worked on lately?

A multilocation, multistate internal buyout of 50% of the ownership in a deadlock situation and no trust between our clients’ 50% and the other 50% owners. From MOU to closing was 3 plus years; 10 appraisers, 6 tax accountants and on and on.

How do you manage work/life balance?

No better than any other compulsive workaholic attorney (and no worse). Lucky to have great support at work and from my wife, 10 grandchildren and 4 grown supportive children. Thank goodness I have them, and I still have a canoe and a paddle, people to accompany me paddling and the BWCA and Quetico remain open.

What is one thing you would change about Minnesota if you could?

Really would not change anything. Despite the issues that some love to talk about over taxes and the business climate, we have a place to live and work that can’t be beaten. When it comes to these issues you get what you pay for. I even like the weather in Duluth.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I am pretty transparent and have no hidden talents. Hence, I am an open book and have no secrets to hide or keep.