Brian Russell Christiansen

I am a business and franchise attorney who takes great pride in advising entrepreneurs, businesses, and franchisees on all manner of legal issues they encounter on a daily basis.  From starting a new company to resolving a legal dispute, my knowledge and attention to detail helps clients achieve their goals in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

I represent businesses, franchisees, and other commercial entities with start-up, employment matters, contract disputes, and litigation should it become necessary. I advise franchisees in reviewing prospective franchise opportunities, resolving disputes with franchisors, combating unlawful terminations, and other matters affecting their day-to-day business success.  

I also represents growing businesses in other industries ranging from licensed professional therapists to manufacturing companies.  I counsel clients on employment best-practices including employee termination, employment policies and handbooks, and accommodations for disabled employees.  I have presented at seminars on issues impacting Minnesota businesses such as the Revised Limited Liability Company Act.

I have extensive experience representing clients in employment and non-compete disputes, commercial litigation, and intellectual property cases in state and federal courts, as well as arbitration and mediation.  I also defend businesses and community associations facing allegations of discrimination in employment and housing.  An active scholar on the rights and responsibilities of animal ownership, I have presented at seminars for property managers on the growing use of assistance animals in apartment and common-interest communities.  I am passionate about helping veterans of our armed forces and regularly volunteers at pro bono legal clinics through the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans.    

In 2016, I had the privilege of being selected as a Rising Star by Minnesota Super Lawyers®, an honor given to only 2.5% of Minnesota attorneys.