Michiganders (or Michiganians if you prefer) are fortunate to be surrounded by two splendors of nature—lots of lakes and lots of farms. Michigan has over 11,000 inland lakes, and agriculture is the second leading industry in the state. The result is an abundance of cottages and mile upon mile of farms. So what do these cottages and farms have in common? Several things. Cottages and farms tend to be owned by families. This means that a small group of closely related individuals, related by blood, marriage, and children, will be responsible for the success or failure of the farm or the use and enjoyment of the cottage. Families may be very close-knit, but they often don’t make good business partners. Add to this the fact that the owners don’t get to choose their business partners. When conflicts do arise, the issues tent to cause deep ... [Continue Reading]