このエピソードについて
The greatest threat to a family farm isn’t always markets, weather, or input costs. Sometimes, it’s family disagreement — and the emotions that come with it.
In this episode of Straight Talk with NDFB, the Harvesting Legal Knowledge series continues with NDFB CEO Jeffrey Missling and attorneys from Ohnstad Twichell Law Firm.
Part two of this two-part conversation focuses on what happens when farm and ranch families can’t agree on the future of the operation and it goes to partition action. When heirs or co-owners disagree, emotions often rise quickly — shaped by years of memories, identity tied to the land, and different visions for what the farm should become.
Ohnstad Twichell attorneys David Piper and Tiffany Findlay explain that while emotion is often viewed as something that clouds judgment, it can also play a meaningful role in these cases. Courts and legal outcomes don’t ignore the human element; instead, emotion often surfaces as part of the story behind why a partition action is being considered in the first place.
Whether you're involved in succession planning, expect to inherit agricultural property, or simply want to understand how shared land ownership can break down, this episode helps unpack both the legal process and the family dynamics behind it.
Links
To watch the entire episode:
Harvesting Legal Knowledge video
Contact our host, Emmery Mehlhoff at emmery@ndfb.org
Disclaimer: The statements made and information provided in this podcast are for educational and informational purposes only. The statements do not constitute legal advice, nor are they intended to create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, so you should not rely on any statements in this podcast as a substitute for personalized legal counsel. Before taking action or making any decisions which may affect your legal rights and obligations, you should consult with an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction
