Spencer Fane attorneys Aaron Dean and Steve Ling were recently named to Minnesota Lawyer’s 2025 Construction and Real Estate Law POWER LIST. The annual list features a prestigious group of Minnesota-based attorneys “who have influenced the direction of the law, whose leadership in the community is pervasive and whose respect within the bar is undeniable,” according to the publication’s criteria.
Both Aaron and Steve maintain successful, high-volume practices and distinguished reputations as thought leaders within the firm and broader legal and business communities. As part of their individual POWER LIST profiles, they answered questions encompassing personal and professional opinions and experiences as well as specific advice they would offer businesses navigating the industry.
When asked about his most interesting transactions as of late, Aaron elaborated on recent work in multiple government contracting disputes, including a successful bid protest against a municipality. He cited high levels of local and state government regulation as the greatest challenge currently facing the sector and stressed enforcing mechanic’s lien rights early as his primary advice to businesses.
Steve, meanwhile, discussed higher interest rates hindering financing for new construction and real estate projects while also impacting the value of existing projects, especially office buildings with decreased occupancy. More broadly, he underscored the importance of businesses involving legal counsel as early as possible to avoid problems and delays with transactions.
At the firm, Aaron represents general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, public and private owners, developers, and A/E in every aspect of construction dispute resolution. Notably, he is the Chapter Attorney for the Minnesota Subcontractors Association, where he drafts and testifies about legislation affecting the construction industry.
Steve provides collaborative legal counsel to developers, builders, corporations, small businesses, lenders, and investors, helping clients efficiently close sophisticated real estate and commercial transactions beneficial to all stakeholders involved in the deal. He regularly drafts and negotiates purchase agreements, leases, and general business contracts.
Check out the full 2025 POWER LIST of Construction and Real Estate Law honorees here; and read Aaron’s featured profile here and Steve’s here. Please note, a subscription may be required.