D. Scott Klemp
Partner | Attorney
Meet D. Scott Klemp
D. Scott Klemp is the Managing Partner of Klemp & Stanton, where he focuses his practice on business law, commercial transactions, and advising companies through complex and high-stakes decisions. With decades of experience representing business owners, entrepreneurs, and closely held companies, Scott serves as a trusted legal advisor from initial formation through growth, transition, and sale.
Business Transactions, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Commercial Agreements
Scott’s practice is centered on commercial transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, shareholder and buy-sell agreements, employment agreements, and a wide range of business contracts. He also maintains an active real estate practice and provides strategic guidance in matters where business and legal issues intersect, including select litigation support and business-related disputes.
Over the course of his career, Scott has worked with companies across a broad spectrum of industries, from service-based businesses to manufacturing firms, with a significant portion of his work involving closely held and family-owned businesses. He has extensive experience guiding clients through the sale of their businesses, where he helps navigate the legal, financial, and strategic complexities of M & A transactions.
Supporting Entrepreneurs, Startups, and Closely Held Businesses
Scott is especially known for his work with start-up and early-stage businesses. Having helped form hundreds, if not thousands, of companies, he enjoys working with entrepreneurs at the front end of their ventures, helping them build a strong legal foundation and position their businesses for long-term success.
A Practical, Client-Focused Approach
Clients and referral partners consistently value Scott’s responsiveness, practical approach, and ability to guide them through complex transactions in a clear and understandable way. He recognizes that many business owners, particularly those selling a company for the first time, are navigating unfamiliar and often overwhelming processes. Scott takes a hands-on approach to preparing clients for what to expect, setting realistic expectations, and breaking down complex legal concepts so they can make informed decisions with confidence.
Known for his straightforward communication style, Scott provides candid, practical advice and remains accessible throughout every stage of a matter. His ability to keep deals moving forward, often under tight timelines, has made him a trusted partner for business owners, business brokers, and other professionals involved in transactions.
Background and Personal Interests
Scott was inspired to pursue a legal career at an early age after observing the role of a business attorney in his family’s business. That early exposure, combined with his interest in working with people and solving problems, continues to shape his approach to practicing law today.
Outside of the office, Scott enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as golfing, biking, and staying active. He also enjoys pickleball, bocce ball, and attending hockey games.
Education
Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Juris Doctor
Hamline University
B.A., Legal Studies
Bar Admissions
- Minnesota
- U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota
Associations & Memberships
- Minnesota State Bar Association
- Dakota County Bar Association
News + Insights
Independent Contractor or Employee? Common Misclassification Mistakes in Minnesota
Hiring an independent contractor can be a practical way to bring in additional help without adding a permanent employee. But just because someone works on a contract basis, sends invoices, or receives a 1099 doesn't necessarily mean they're legally an independent...
How Minnesota Courts Determine Parenting Time
When parents separate or divorce, one of the biggest questions is how much time each parent will spend with their children. Who will have the children during the school week? How will weekends and holidays work? What happens if the parents can't agree on a schedule?...
What Happens at a Minnesota Probate Hearing?
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without having to figure out an unfamiliar legal process. If you've been notified of a probate hearing in Minnesota, you may be wondering what the hearing involves, whether you need to attend, and what decisions the court will...
What Is an Indemnification Clause and Why Is It Important?
Business contracts establish more than what each party has agreed to do. A good contract should also address what happens when something goes wrong — and who may be responsible for the resulting costs. That is where an indemnification clause comes in. ...
What Does a Personal Representative Do During Probate?
When someone dies, there are often many practical and financial matters that still need to be handled. Property must be identified, bills and taxes may need to be paid, important documents must be located, and remaining assets eventually need to be distributed to the...
What Is a Purchase Agreement and Why Does It Matter?
When you buy or sell a business, real estate, equipment, or another significant asset, agreeing on the price is only part of the deal. The parties also need to agree on exactly what is being purchased, what each side is responsible for, what must happen before...
Buying Commercial Real Estate: Legal Issues to Consider Before Closing
Buying commercial real estate can be an important investment for a business. You may be purchasing a building for your company's operations, acquiring property as an investment, or buying land for future development. Whatever the reason, there is more to consider than...
What Documents Are Needed for a Minnesota Estate Plan?
When people think about estate planning, the first document that usually comes to mind is a will. A will is important, but a complete estate plan often involves more than deciding who receives your property after you die. Estate planning can also address who manages...
What Minnesota Employers Need to Know About Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST)
ESST isn't just another employment policy. It's a legal requirement for most Minnesota employers. Minnesota's Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) law gives eligible employees the right to earn paid leave for certain health- and safety-related reasons. While the law has...
What Is Probate in Minnesota?
Probate has a reputation for being complicated. In reality, it's simply the legal process for settling someone's estate. If you've recently lost a loved one, you've probably heard the word "probate" more than once. Friends, family members, and even the internet often...