Collin Schaefer 
Startups move quickly. Founders are focused on building, shipping, and staying alive. Legal work tends to come in later, often after something has already gone wrong. At that point, fixing the issue usually costs more than it would have to prevent it. After years of working with startups, I have seen a handful of problems … Read more
In any transaction, the spotlight usually shines on the main agreement. That’s where the negotiation happens, the signatures go, and the headlines get made. But the real guts of the deal? They’re often found in the documents no one talks about. Lien releases. Bills of sale. Assignments. Resolutions. Certificates. Notices. These so-called ancillary documents may … Read more
If your startup began life as an LLC, you’re not alone. A lot of founders are told that starting as an LLC is “easier” or “cheaper.” That might be true on paper, but if you’re planning to raise venture capital (even eventually) it’s usually better to start as a C-Corporation. Here’s one reason why: converting … Read more
If you’ve followed me on LinkedIn, you’ve probably seen me mention this before—but it’s worth repeating. Ownership changes can trigger serious reporting obligations with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), and missing a deadline here can cause real headaches. What Should Be Done For anyone listed on your federal permit—typically individuals with … Read more
The anticipated Emergency Rule further outlining the Department of Revenue’s policies, procedures, and interpretations of Wis. Stat. Sec. 125 was just released! If you are a brewery, winery, distillery, or wholesale permittee in the State of Wisconsin this emergency rule applies to you and will impact your business. We will have more information about the … Read more
I recently finished reading Arnold Schwarzenegger’s book Be Useful, and one message really stuck with me: None of us are self-made. Every accomplishment, every milestone, is built on the support, wisdom, and generosity of others. As I reflect on ten years of legal practice, and how I got here, this truth feels especially meaningful. With … Read more
As an extension filer for almost the entirety of my adult life, I’m all too well aware that while the US Treasury might give you an extension on the time to file, there is never an extension of the time to pay your taxes. This applies to income tax and excise tax – and if … Read more
The 2018 Farm Bill made a significant change to the definition of “marijuana” by introducing a THC threshold. Specifically, it now requires a concentration of at least 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis for something to be considered marijuana. In simpler terms, if a plant—or any product derived from it—contains 0.3% Delta-9 THC … Read more
As the golden days of summer start to wane, the mornings greet us with a hint of chill, and the evenings slip into darkness a bit too soon. It’s already noticeable how dark it is by 7:30 p.m. or how it still lingers at 5 a.m. The purpose of this post isn’t to depress you … Read more
As the 2024 deadline approaches, ensuring your business complies with FinCEN’s Beneficial Ownership Reporting requirements is crucial.