Clients describe Edward J. Fleming as a strategic dealmaker who brings clarity, perspective, and steady judgment to complex transactions. They value his ability to listen closely, understand both business and personal goals, and guide clients through high-stakes decisions with confidence and care. Edward says, “Every business tells a story. My role is to understand that narrative and help clients turn challenges into opportunities.”

Edward advises private equity firms, closely held and family-owned businesses, and public and private companies on mergers and acquisitions, succession planning, corporate governance, and strategic business transactions. He works with clients across industries including healthcare, manufacturing, food and beverage, technology, and agriculture, supporting deals that range from regional growth strategies to national and cross-border transactions.

Edward’s background contributes to his ability to approach complex transactions with perspective, strong communication skills, and a focus on practical outcomes. He combines technical excellence with a collaborative, client-first mindset, helping clients navigate transformative transactions while aligning legal strategy with business objectives and long-term goals. Clients appreciate his ability to make intricate deals feel manageable and to deliver results that matter.

His practice focuses primarily on mergers and acquisitions and corporate governance, with additional work in fund formation, capital markets, and general corporate counseling. Edward brings big-deal experience to closely held businesses and emerging private equity funds, offering tailored guidance that reflects the realities of each client’s organization and growth plans.

Edward’s philosophy is rooted in deep listening and thoughtful strategy. He believes that understanding a client’s full story leads to better outcomes and more durable solutions, particularly during pivotal moments that shape the future of a business.

Areas of Focus

Experience

  • Counsel to an alternative investment firm and its portfolio companies on over $100 million in bolt-on acquisitions and strategic transactions.
  • Advised on a $1.4 billion cross border equity redemption and sale for a wholesale supplier of restaurant and catering products.
  • Represented a healthcare-focused software development company in its $425 million sale.
  • Structured a $950 million senior secured credit facility for healthcare and manufacturing clients.
  • Advised a commercial stage medical device company on a $150 million at the market shelf offering.
  • Represented a regional healthcare network in a $165 million tax exempt bond financing.

Credentials

Education

  • University of Minnesota Law School (J.D.)
    • Minnesota Law Review, Managing Editor
  • University of Iowa
  • Boston College (M.S.W., 2010)
  • St. Norbert College (B.A., Psychology; Sociology; Spanish, 2007)

Admissions

Bar Admissions

  • Minnesota

Languages

  • Spanish, Professional Working Proficiency

Recognitions

  • Minnesota Lawyer, "Up & Coming Attorney," 2025
  • Selected among The Best Lawyers in America®, "Ones to Watch," 2022-2024
  • Minnesota State Bar Association, "North Star Lawyers," 2020, 2025

Presentations

  • Co-presenter, "Selling Your Company – Understanding the Process & Legal Considerations in Transitioning Your Business," True North's M&A Summit, September 4, 2024
  • Co-presenter, "Legal Compliance Basics for Social Entrepreneurs," Initiative Foundation, April 14, 2021

Publications

Professional Activities

  • American Bar Association
  • Minnesota State Bar Association
  • Hennepin County Bar Association
  • Stearns-Benton Bar Association

Community Involvement

  • City of Sartell, Parks Commission, Board Member, 2024-present
  • Central Minnesota Montessori School, Board Chair, 2024-present
  • Great River Children's Museum, Fundraising Committee Member, 2023-present
  • Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, Board Member, 2022-present
  • United Way of Central Minnesota, Community Health Committee Member, 2021-present
  • Sartell Baseball Association, Board Member, 2021-2024
  • Sartell Area Youth Football Association, Board Member, 2021-2024
  • Central Minnesota Habitat For Humanity, Volunteer Attorney
  • LegalCORPS, Volunteer Attorney
  • The Advocates for Human Rights, Volunteer Attorney