Startups
Being part of a startup is highly exciting but fraught with potential legal pitfalls if not managed correctly.
Having been a startup law firm ourselves and currently running our own business, we truly grasp the challenges of the entrepreneurial journey. This insight distinguishes us. We are not only legal counsel; we have also navigated similar struggles and can share those experiences and the knowledge we gained from them with you.
We recognize the distinct legal and strategic business needs of startup companies as well as those of the entrepreneurs behind them. Our firm has represented entrepreneurial companies across various industries and has implemented best practices specifically designed to meet their needs.
Because we are selective about the clients we represent, we can offer extensive attention to all our corporate clients, regardless of their size and scope. Our select client base allows us to leverage our network within the entrepreneurial community, providing valuable insights and introductions that can accelerate the growth of their businesses.
At Kramer International Law, we assist with the formation and management of entities. There are several types of entities, and choosing the right one for your business is a crucial decision. Failing to establish the entity correctly can be costly and lead to complicated delays.
Once a business is established and starts operating in commerce, certain regulations must be adhered to. Different types of entities are governed by various sets of laws, making legal compliance essential.
We advise clients on potential problems and the best strategies to avoid them and any associated liabilities.
One of the benefits of incorporation is limited liability. Generally, owners are not personally liable for the company's debts, obligations, and actions.
Corporations can offer flexibility and benefits regarding tax planning.
The founders of a startup should enter into a shareholders’ agreement that outlines the company's governance, along with other rights and restrictions.
The founders and any contributors to software or other intellectual property (IP) prior to the company’s incorporation should have ownership of the IP transferred to the company upon its formation.
Confidential Information and Inventions Assignment Agreements (CIIAAs) ensure that the IP and other proprietary rights developed by employees during their employment are assigned to the employer.
Equity in the company can be traded for financial investment by offering equity shares to investors.
A corporation is a distinct legal entity whose ownership can be transferred and which exists beyond the lives of its original founders.
We help identify standard contracts that startups should use in their businesses. Additionally, we review contracts presented to clients to ensure their protection.
As a startup, you will need equity agreements for founders, employees, and investors to simplify and secure your equity structure.
We assist in structuring, negotiating, documenting and closing investment transactions involving common stock, preferred stock, subordinated debt, warrants and other forms of equity, equity-related and debt securities.
We can assist in preparing Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs), which may serve to motivate and incentivize early employees and contractors of the company.
The intangible assets of a business are frequently as valuable, and sometimes even more valuable, than its tangible assets. Therefore, protecting a company's brand through the registration of trademarks is essential to safeguarding its business goodwill.
We recognize the importance of strategically safeguarding a company’s brand and IP, including through social media and domain name protections.
We ensure your IP and confidentiality are protected by way of commercial, confidentiality, non-disclosure and licensing agreements.
We collaborate with affiliated patent agents to assist you in managing any patent application, prosecution, and registration.
Startups typically need to seek financing on a regular basis to support their growth. The fundraising method often depends on the stage of the business and its leverage in raising funds. Seed financing for early-stage startups typically takes the form of a SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) or convertible note, while emerging companies usually raise seed or series preferred financing through venture capital.
Our firm can assist you in navigating and negotiating financings based on the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA), Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (CVCA) or British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA) model documents. We can also help you draft and negotiate custom documents tailored to your company's needs.
As startups grow, they will require the appropriate licenses to operate effectively. They will also need continuous support to stay compliant, successfully pass audits, and navigate complex situations arising from ever-changing regulations.
We work closely with our startup clients to make sure everything goes as it should. Therefore, when you partner with us, you are choosing a law firm that genuinely understands your business requirements and provides practical, budget-friendly legal advice.
We have encountered almost every conceivable mistake made by entrepreneurs attempting to undertake complex legal work themselves. Just ask us how much time we’ve spent resolving issues that could have been avoided if entrepreneurs had taken the right steps from the beginning. A first-time entrepreneur will face numerous tasks. We are here to ensure that time-consuming legal matters do not distract you from focusing on growing your business.
We have valuable experience supporting startups across multiple industries, as well as in collaboration with venture capital firms, angel investors, and incubators. We understand the challenges faced by new organizations. As a flexible boutique with significant experience in this area, we are well-positioned to help startups achieve their goals while upholding the highest standards of legal services and responsiveness. We assist in initial formation through to exit. Regardless of your objectives, we are here to help.
Kramer International Law strives not only to provide high-quality and cost-effective legal advice, but also to act as a trusted business advisor for the present and into the future.
