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NJL People: Zachary J. Crain

Zachary J. Crain

Attorney & Chair, Corporate, Nonprofit, and Health Care

Zach’s clients include businesses, medical and behavioral health providers, social services charities, and trade associations. Serving as a Shareholder in the firm, he advises these clients on corporate and real estate transactions, including New Markets Tax Credit and other government-funded financing, and on regulatory compliance and risk management matters. Many nonprofit clients seek Zach’s assistance in their transformational moments, such as mergers, significant real estate or other transactions, and dissolutions.

Combining a background in business and prior in-house experience, Zach excels at translating complex themes for his clients while positioning them to be successful. He works collaboratively with clients and colleagues, as he focuses on building strong and lasting relationships.

Outside of work, you can find Zach raising his children, spending time outdoors, and socializing with family and friends.

Key Practice Experience

Corporate and Real Estate

Health Care

Key Industry Experience

  • Real Estate and Real Estate Finance
  • Manufacturing
  • Nonprofits
  • Health Care
  • Private and Corporate Foundations
  • Construction
  • Senior Living Facilities
  • New Markets Tax Credit Financing

Representative Matters

  • Serves as outside general counsel for health care, nonprofit, real estate, and professional service companies
  • Representation of companies and nonprofits in significant transactions, such as:
    • Representation of buyers and sellers in acquisitions in retail, technology, service, and health care industries
    • Representation of nonprofit organizations in spin-offs, mergers, and dissolutions
    • Assisting in the sale, purchase, and leasing of senior living facilities and office, retail, and industrial real estate
    • Assisting in the purchase and refinancing of state bond-financed property
  • Responding to investigations by state agencies and licensing boards
  • Internal investigations of complaints against employees and volunteers in nonprofit organizations
  • Representation of nonprofit organizations in significant litigation matters, such as:
    • Lease arbitration matters
    • Program termination by the Minnesota Department of Human Services
    • Resolution of disputes involving board members, contractors, and volunteers

Publications and Presentations

Zach is a dedicated educator within the legal community, frequently sharing his insights through continuing legal education (CLE) programs and publications. His presentations often focus on critical areas such as:

  • Transactional Law: Guiding attorneys and businesses through the intricacies of Mergers and Acquisitions, corporate transactions, and real estate deals, including practical strategies for purchase price adjustments and earn-out clauses.
  • Corporate Governance & Compliance: Providing expertise on topics like securities law pitfalls for entrepreneurs and legal issues affecting closely held businesses.
  • Health Law: Addressing unique challenges in the healthcare sector, including medical office real estate transactions.
  • Ethical & Emerging Issues: Covering timely subjects such as social media and lawyer ethics and the implications of landmark legislation like the ADA.

He is also the editor of the Minnesota Business Forms Deskbook (Minnesota CLE) and has contributed to encyclopedic works on civil liberties.

Professional Associations

  • Minnesota State Bar Association (MSBA)
  • Minnesota Business Law Institute, Planning Committee Member
  • American Health Law Association
  • Ramsey County Bar Association

Community Engagement

  • Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, Fund Board Member (2024 – present)
  • Adjunct Professor, University of Minnesota Law School (2020 – present)
  • Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce
    • Board Member, Charitable Foundation (2009-2012)
    • Board Chair, Charitable Foundation (2010)
    • Leadership Saint Paul (2006)
  • Minnesota State High School Mock Trial Program, Volunteer Judge (2007-2022)
  • Roseville Visitors Association, Board Member and Former Board Chair (2013-2021)
  • City of West Saint Paul Planning Commission, Commissioner (2009-2012)
  • Face to Face Health & Counseling Service, Inc., Board Member (2006-2012), Board Chair (2012-2011)
  • Public Art Saint Paul, Board Member (2008-2012)
  • Saint Paul Smart Trips, Board Member (2007-2010)

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