Startups face a compressed timeline of legal decisions that set the trajectory for the company. Entity structure, founder equity splits, IP ownership, investor terms, and employee incentive plans all need to be right from the beginning because they are expensive and disruptive to fix later. We provide startup counsel informed by both legal expertise and practical experience with how venture-backed companies actually operate.
Entity Formation
Choosing the right entity structure affects taxation, liability, fundraising capability, and equity flexibility. We form Delaware C-corporations (the standard structure for venture-backed startups), LLCs, and other entities based on the company's specific situation and objectives. Formation includes drafting governing documents, establishing the initial capitalization structure, and advising on state registration requirements.
Founder Agreements
Co-founder relationships require clear documentation from day one. We draft founder agreements covering equity allocation, vesting schedules, IP assignment, roles and responsibilities, decision-making authority, and departure terms. These agreements prevent the disputes that destroy companies when founders disagree or part ways.
Venture Capital Financing
We represent companies in seed, Series A, and later-stage financing rounds. This includes reviewing and negotiating term sheets, drafting and negotiating definitive transaction documents (stock purchase agreements, investor rights agreements, voting agreements, and ROFR/co-sale agreements), managing the closing process, and advising founders on the implications of the terms being offered. We also handle SAFE and convertible note financings for pre-priced rounds.
Equity Incentive Plans
Attracting and retaining talent requires equity compensation. We design and implement stock option plans, restricted stock agreements, and other equity incentive structures that comply with tax requirements (including Section 409A), align employee incentives with company objectives, and work within the company's capitalization structure.
IP Protection for Startups
For technology startups, intellectual property is often the primary asset. We integrate IP strategy into the formation process from the beginning, ensuring that all IP is properly assigned to the company, that employees and contractors have appropriate assignment and confidentiality agreements, and that the patent filing strategy is calibrated to the company's budget and development timeline. See our IP strategy page for more detail on portfolio development.
Get Started
To discuss legal needs for your startup, schedule a consultation.