Aaron Dean, Spencer Fane

Shareholder, Spencer Fane

What are the biggest challenges you currently see in construction or real estate law?

The level of regulation from local and state governments.

What advice would you give a business to avoid legal complications in construction or real estate?

Enforce mechanic’s lien rights early so that the project owner and lender know about non-payment.

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

Government contracting disputes: (1) successful bid protest against a municipality, secured injunctive relief to prevent a municipality from proceeding with contract award to the second low bidder, obtained a judicial finding of contempt of court when the municipality violated the court’s injunctions, and then recovered the contractor’s legal fees from the municipality, (2) bid mistake case for an apparent low bidder on a municipal project and stopped contract award and obtained return of the contractor’s bid bond, and (3) negotiate significant change order following discovery of a bid mistake nine months after contract execution.

How do you manage work/life balance?

It’s easier to manage work/life balance in 2025 since our children are in college out of state, we are empty nesters, and my wife is medically retired from her OB/GYN position. We are traveling more, but I still do time sheets, Teams meetings, and court hearing while on trips!

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

After 50 years of being a fan, I want to see the Vikings win the Super Bowl.

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

I coached 25 youth sports teams in soccer, basketball, T-ball, baseball and softball, and I loved every second for all those years. The big lesson is always support whatever activities your children decide to do.