In early‐stage startups, every contract—no matter how routine—carries risk. A simple vendor agreement gone awry can stall product launches, while an unclear freelance engagement can lead to IP disputes. That’s where a fractional General Counsel (GC) steps in: on-demand legal leadership that keeps your day-to-day contracting smooth, compliant, and scalable. Here’s how a fractional GC can transform your everyday agreements into growth engines rather than liability traps.

In an era where automation and transparency are paramount, smart contracts have emerged as a powerful tool for startup founders. Deployed on blockchain networks, these self‑executing agreements promise efficiency and trust—but they’re not without risks. This blog unpacks what smart contracts are, highlights real‑world use cases, and alerts you to common legal pitfalls you need to navigate.

Many entrepreneurs believe that once their startup is legally formed, their compliance obligations are largely complete. However, the Articles of Incorporation (or Articles of Organization for LLCs) and the Operating Agreement (or Bylaws for corporations) continue to play a vital role long after the formation phase. These foundational documents are not merely administrative requirements; they serve as living instruments that govern the legal, operational, and financial framework of your business.

In this article, we explain why Articles and Operating Agreements still matter post-formation and how startups can strategically leverage these documents for long-term success.

Effective corporate governance is a foundational pillar of long-term success for startups. From drafting bylaws to maintaining accurate board minutes, startups must navigate a complex array of legal and operational responsibilities. Employing a General Counsel (GC) or legal advisor early in the company’s lifecycle can help ensure these responsibilities are fulfilled in a manner that supports growth, investor confidence, and regulatory compliance.

This article explores how a General Counsel helps startups establish strong governance practices, draft essential corporate documents, and maintain proper legal hygiene.

Investor relations are the lifeblood of any growing startup. Whether you are scaling through venture capital, private equity, or angel investment, clear communication and sound legal practices are essential to maintaining investor confidence. Failing to meet investor expectations or neglecting legal obligations can quickly lead to disputes, reputational damage, or even litigation.

Launching a startup involves much more than a great idea. To protect your business, manage operations effectively, and position yourself for growth and investment, legal and business documentation is essential. This checklist outlines the ten must-have templates every early-stage startup should have from day one.

These documents are foundational, legally protective, and critical for maintaining compliance and professionalism.

The rise of cryptocurrency has created new opportunities for startups and small businesses to innovate how they conduct transactions. Accepting crypto payments can offer benefits such as lower fees, faster processing times, and expanded access to global markets. However, with these opportunities come complex legal and regulatory considerations that founders must understand to operate compliantly.

This guide explores the key legal issues associated with using crypto payments in a business context, particularly for founders operating in the U.S.