About

ABOUT US

The History of MNCLS

Minnesota Construction Law Services was founded with the determination that there had to be a better option. Bill Gschwind, founder and Principal Attorney, worked in construction and business for years and experienced every twist and turn. Therefore, he had the ‘pleasure’ of working with lawyers, which just left Bill with only one thought, “I can do better.” So, he enrolled in law school, passed the Minnesota bar, opened Minnesota Construction Law Services in 2012, and hasn’t slowed down since.

Over the years, the MNCLS team has gained a few more kickass members. With combined knowledge in construction, business and law, MNCLS Lawyers are advisors for your business and legal needs. From hiring employees or independent contractors to meeting all the regulatory requirements for commercial retail development, they know what will help your business. They are a group of attorneys that understand the industry and the people who work it. Minnesota Construction Law Services was founded to help the construction company owner-operator. There was a gap, and MNCLS filled it.

Our Mission

The mission of Minnesota Construction Law Services is simple, we want to help you build and protect your business. We give you practical solutions, ones that will grow your business.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be the lawyer Minnesota contractors want, not just a lawyer they have to hire. At Minnesota Construction Law Services, we assist commercial and residential contractors with the complex legal and business world of construction. And when they need us to represent their interests, they like it that we only represent contractors.

Meet Our Attorneys & Staff

The MNCLS Team

We have credentials, we have experience, and we have wit. Our team is focused and fierce. We are picky about who we hire because frankly, we only work with those who care about and understand the construction industry and the small business world. Click below to learn more about our team.

Bill Gschwind, JD, BA, MBA

Attorney, Founding Partner

Bill doesn't just understand the construction and business industry, he lived it. He is dedicated to helping his clients succeed, that's why he founded MNCLS in the first place.

Learn More

Courtney Ernston, JD, BA

Attorney, Partner

Courtney grew up in construction, she knows how it operates and what tools to make it simpler. With Courtney on your team, you get the best and you get it straight.

Learn More

Shelley VanDyke

Paralegal

Shelley has been with MNCLS since the start. She conducts research, prepares court filings and provides client updates without missing a beat.

Learn More

Bailey Coughlin

Office Manager

Bailey keeps the office in balance, but even more, she understands and connects with clients who are small business owners.

Learn More

we’re not your typical lawyers

We don't do that big-word, fancy suit nonsense. We build relationships, then we get results.

Contact Us Today
Common Problems

Spencer

Bill was very helpful in dealing with an investigation we had to undergo with a state agency. He was attentive and it felt like I got a very personal experience in dealing with him. His experience in dealing with the state made him exceptionally good at anticipating their next move and he was right a vast majority of the time! Additionally, his rates were reasonable and the peace of mind of having help with this was worth every penny.
About

Certified Moisture Testing

I have finally found an attorney that I feel is on my side. Being self-employed with employees presents unique situations almost daily. Bill’s long term business background and business understanding is a benefit not too many attorneys can provide. He has helped me with different issues that are not always legal. I was stalled on a project for over 2 years. Bill not only gave me new insight on how to approach the project but got me motivated to continue. I’ve dealt with many in the legal community over the years but none have given me advice like Bill has.
About