Getting the legal foundation right early saves founders from painful disputes and lost funding later. Here is what every startup should prioritise.
Incorporation & structure
Choose the right entity — a Private Limited company is usually best for startups seeking funding. Register it properly with correct MOA/AOA and post-incorporation compliances.
Founder & team agreements
- Founders' agreement with vesting
- ESOP policy for early employees
- Employment and NDA agreements
- IP assignment clauses
Protecting your IP
Register your trademark early and ensure all code, content and designs created for the company are legally owned by it. Investors will scrutinise this during due diligence.
A startup lawyer acts as your part-time general counsel, keeping you compliant and fundable as you scale.