Grandfather with his grandson on their farm
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At Borakove Osman LLC, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with owning and operating a farm. It’s not just a business; it’s a way of life. That’s why farm continuation planning is essential to ensure the future of your agricultural legacy. With our extensive experience in estate planning and a special focus on farm continuation, we are dedicated to helping farm owners pass on their livelihood and legacy to the next generation.

At the heart of our farm continuation planning services is Attorney Shayna W. Borakove, whose background as a proud member of a farming family and passion for agricultural law have given her an in-depth understanding of the fact that farms are more than just assets; they are tangible evidence of a family’s heritage and future. Her approach combines legal acumen with a deep appreciation of the agricultural community, ensuring that your farm’s unique needs are met with customized, strategic planning solutions.

Understanding Farm Continuation Planning

Farm continuation planning is a process that goes beyond simple will-writing. It involves a comprehensive strategy to ensure that your farm transitions smoothly, maintaining its operational integrity, financial stability, and the family’s values. This planning covers legal, financial, and personal aspects, including estate planning, business structure, tax considerations, and succession planning.

Key Components of Farm Continuation Planning

Farm continuation planning comprises several vital elements:

Succession Planning involves identifying and preparing the next generation by training successors in the administration and performance of day-to-day operations and educating them about how to make wise strategic decisions.

Legal Structure involves evaluating and possibly restructuring the legal form of your farming operation in order to provide possible tax advantages, liability protections, facilitated succession,  and other significant benefits.

Estate and Tax Planning entails ensuring that your assets are transferred to your heirs with minimal tax implications. Such a transfer may include the use of trusts, life insurance, and other tools to preserve your farm’s value.

Conflict Resolution Strategies are critical since family conflicts can threaten the stability and growth of the family business. Incorporating strategies to manage family disagreements about how the farm should be managed in the present or handled in the future is imperative. Without such strategies in place, differences in perspective could prevent the business from operating smoothly and interfere with profitability and longevity.

Financial Planning, if done properly, can ensure the financial health of the farm and is critical for its continuation. This planning includes preparing the older generation for retirement and the younger generation for success. It also includes obtaining an accurate and complete valuation of the farm and agreeing on whether and how the ownership of the farm will be divided.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

Farm continuation planning is complex and requires professional guidance to navigate its legal, financial, and familial pathways. At Borakove Osman LLC, we will work closely with you to understand the particulars of your situation so we can tailor a farm continuation plan to meet your specific needs. Our intricate knowledge of agricultural law in Wisconsin, combined with our compassionate approach to family dynamics, make us a trustworthy partner in achieving your goals. Like you, we are determined to preserve your agricultural legacy.

The Takeaway

Your farm is more than just a piece of land; it’s a testament to your family’s hard work and dedication and represents your vision for the future. With the right planning and professional support, you can ensure that your agricultural legacy thrives for generations to come. Shayna Borakove and the team at Borakove Osman LLC are here to guide you through every step of the farm continuation planning process, protecting what matters most to you and your family. Contact us today.

Borakove Osman, LLC is your trusted partner for farm continuation planning in Wisconsin. Serving all of Wisconsin, including Madison and Dane County, we are dedicated to providing high-quality legal advice and representation to help you secure your family’s future.