Bakke Norman is strengthening its commitment to Northwest Wisconsin’s agricultural community by highlighting its dedicated farming and agricultural law practice. With deep roots in the region’s rural economy, the firm assists farmers, landowners, and agribusinesses in addressing the unique legal challenges of modern agriculture. This focus builds on more than 40 years of service to local families and businesses.
Wisconsin remains one of the nation’s leading agricultural states, with thousands of farms producing dairy, crops, livestock, and value-added products. Operators face complex issues involving land use, succession, contracts, regulatory compliance, and business operations. Bakke Norman’s attorneys provide practical guidance tailored to these realities, helping clients protect their livelihoods while planning for long-term sustainability.
The firm’s farming law team includes experienced attorneys such as Bryan Tillman and Tom Schumacher. Their work spans transactional matters, real estate, employment considerations, and succession planning specific to agricultural operations. Clients benefit from attorneys who understand that farming is both a business and a way of life deeply tied to family, land, and community.
Farm succession planning represents one of the most critical services. Many farm owners seek to transfer operations to the next generation while minimizing tax consequences and family conflicts. Bakke Norman helps create buy-sell agreements, family limited partnerships, and comprehensive estate plans that address asset protection, tax efficiency, and smooth ownership transitions. These strategies help preserve the family farm for future generations without forcing sales or triggering unnecessary liabilities.
Agribusiness support covers day-to-day operational needs. Attorneys review and negotiate contracts with vendors, buyers, and distributors to protect client interests. They assist with regulatory compliance at federal, state, and local levels, including environmental rules, zoning requirements, and safety standards. Real estate transactions, whether purchasing additional farmland, leasing pasture, or negotiating conservation easements, receive careful handling to ensure a clear title and favorable terms.
Dispute resolution forms another key component. The firm helps resolve boundary disagreements, contract issues, and other conflicts before they escalate into costly litigation. When necessary, attorneys provide strong representation in court or administrative proceedings while prioritizing practical, business-preserving solutions.
“Wisconsin farmers operate in a highly regulated and capital-intensive environment,” said Bryan Tillman, an attorney at Bakke Norman. “Our role is to anticipate legal risks and structure arrangements that support operational success and generational continuity. We focus on solutions that align with the client’s specific farm goals and values.”
Tom Schumacher, a longtime advocate for closely held businesses in western Wisconsin, added: “Many of our farming clients have built their operations over decades. We help them safeguard what they’ve created through careful planning and proactive counsel. Whether expanding, transitioning ownership, or addressing a regulatory matter, the goal is always long-term viability for the farm and family.”
The firm’s multi-office presence in New Richmond, Baldwin, Menomonie, and Eau Claire makes it accessible to farms across Northwest Wisconsin. Attorneys understand local conditions, from the rolling hills of St. Croix County to the agricultural lands near Eau Claire and Menomonie. This regional knowledge allows for responsive service without requiring clients to travel far for trusted counsel.
Bakke Norman’s agricultural practice integrates with other firm strengths, including business transactions, real estate law, employment law, and estate planning. A single engagement, such as a farm sale or expansion, often involves multiple legal considerations that the collaborative team handles efficiently. This comprehensive approach reduces gaps and ensures consistent advice.
The firm also supports broader community efforts in agriculture. By maintaining strong relationships with farming families, cooperatives, and rural leaders, Bakke Norman stays attuned to emerging issues such as changes in federal farm programs, Wisconsin-specific nutrient management rules, and evolving land-use policies.
Clients appreciate the firm’s straightforward, results-oriented style. Reviews on the Bakke Norman website frequently highlight attorneys who are competent, accessible, and genuinely invested in client outcomes. This reputation has made the firm a go-to resource for agricultural legal needs in the region.
As Wisconsin agriculture continues to evolve, with trends toward larger operations, diversification, value-added processing, and sustainability, legal guidance becomes increasingly important. Bakke Norman remains committed to helping farm owners navigate these changes while preserving the heritage and economic contribution of family farms.
Founded in 1985, Bakke Norman has grown from a small office in the historic New Richmond Heritage Center to four strategic locations serving individuals, businesses, and municipalities. The firm maintains high professional standards and has earned recognition as one of the Best Law Firms in America by U.S. News & World Report.
For farmers and agribusinesses seeking experienced counsel, Bakke Norman offers consultations to discuss specific needs and develop tailored strategies. The firm continues its longstanding mission of delivering superior legal services grounded in deep regional knowledge and a genuine commitment to client success.
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For more information about Bakke Norman, contact the company here:
Bakke Norman
Tom Schumacher
715-246-3800
info@bakkenorman.com
1200 Heritage Dr, New Richmond, WI 54017
