Joseph Carl Jones

Joseph C. Jones is the founder of Menominee, MI based Jones Law PLC. Joe received his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of St. Thomas School of Law – Minneapolis, MN. Prior to his attending law school, Joe obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) degree from St. Norbert College, De Pere, WI. Growing up in a family of small business owners, he had developed a keen interest in entrepreneurship – starting his first business at the age of fifteen. Since then, he has been involved in a number of business ventures – having negotiated investment agreements of up to $30 million. His passion for family and business has converged into three basic principles utilized in advising clients – plan, protect, and grow. Joe focuses his practice in the areas of estate planning, asset protection, business law, and real estate law.

PLAN, PROTECT, & GROW — you will hear this from me quite often. These are not meaningless buzz words, but guiding principles. With proper planning, you can better protect yourself, family, business, and ultimate legacy. Too often, planning is sought after when it is far too late. This not only brings about unnecessary cost, but also potential litigation. Whether you are seeking advice in estate planning, asset protection, business law, or real estate law — I am are here to help.

Practice Areas

Estate Planning 

When you hear the term “estate planning,” what comes to mind? For many clients, the term elicits an uncomfortable thought of their own mortality – for others, the loss of a parent or grandparent. In any case, the topic can be less than exciting at times. Though most estate plans will broach the topic of the client’s mortality, there is much more to it. Surprising to many clients, we recommend estate planning in at least some form to all individuals 18 or older. Estate plans come in all shapes and sizes. Simply put, people plan for different reasons.

Over time, estate planning needs change. For those who are young and single, your needs and ultimate plan will look much different than those married and with children. Those who are 65 years or older, or have health concerns, should consider Medicaid planning as part of their estate plan. It is important to have your plan reviewed and updated as necessary. We normally recommend a review every 3 years. If you are about to or have already experienced a major life event (e.g. marriage, birth of a child, disability, inheritance, etc.), you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to plan accordingly.

Asset Protection 

Asset protection planning expands upon traditional estate planning. Many people believe that their current estate plan will protect their assets from lawsuits or creditor claims. By and large, neither a will nor a living/revocable trust alone will protect your assets. Whether you are a professional (e.g. accountant, attorney, dentist, doctor, or financial advisor), business owner, real estate investor, or retiree, you may benefit from asset protection planning. With a comprehensive asset protection plan, you can better protect your hard earned assets.

We live in a very litigious society – in any year, Americans have a 10% chance of being sued, and a 33% chance over their lifetime. (According to IFG Trust Services, Inc.) That being the case, asset protection planning can benefit a wide variety individuals and businesses. There is no one size fits all in asset protection planning. It is important that any planning be made well in advance of a lawsuit or creditor claim.

Business Law 

When starting, growing, buying or selling a business, it is important to make sure you have a legally sound plan. Starting a business can be an exciting time for the budding entrepreneur. Many new businesses begin as a result of a handshake – the idea is great, the team is amazing, and times are good. Though these businesses begin with all of the best intentions, they often fail because of poor planning. Many problems can be prevented through the right business entity and proper governance documents tailored to fit the needs of the particular business and client.

Real Estate Law 

Whether you are buying, selling, leasing, or developing real estate, there are a number ways to make sure the “deal” works for you. Real estate often accounts for a substantial portion of any given client’s wealth – this alone should give pause to the “DIY” clients. From negotiating the terms of a lease, drafting an easement, or seeking a zoning change – obtaining the advice of an attorney is crucial. Specifically for business clients, real estate transactions may warrant additional business planning to better protect current and future assets.