Are there any law firms that provide free or cheap legal advice for startups?

Alexander Deeb Tech Entrepreneur & Software Professional

April 14th, 2016

I am looking to speak with a lawyer specializing in copyright law about the legal implications of my new pricing strategy. The firms I've found thus far charge high fees, and I am hoping to find a firm with startup-friendly pricing.

Annick Fuchs Startup lawyer in the Silicon Valley and Europe, ex Director Legal PayPal

April 14th, 2016

You will find thousands of lawyers who want to help. I think the question is: will you want sporadic advice or do you want to get a real partner? Who knows your business, who is at your side longterm whenever you need him. I know of models where lawyers offer monthly packages and come sit with you at your office and go through all your needs. Think that is smarter than asking any lawyer for adhoc advice. Happy to connect you.

Irwin Stein Very experienced (40 years) corporate,securities and real estate attorney.

April 14th, 2016

Alexander: I would be happy to give you an hour for free. I am not a specialist in copyright law, but I can doubt that is what you actually need. If I cannot help you, I can probably send you to someone who can.

K. Robbins Head Moose at Moose WorldWide Digital

April 15th, 2016

If you're selling a physical product that you've invested hundreds of thousands of dollars into, then you can afford a lawyer.

Same for a software product, although they are much harder to copyright and protect.

If you've ever been involved in a civil legal dispute you know it takes months, even years for any action to happen (unless you're in the criminal courts, and even they move slowly).

I think you're worried about the wrong things, focus on getting to market and generating positive cash flow. If you're product is that easy to copy, it won't last long anyway.

Paul Cohen Attorney and Counsel

April 14th, 2016

I would be happy to speak with you - I work with start-ups as well as established companies.

Mark Rosenberg Tax, securities and commercial litigation

April 14th, 2016

I have represented start up companies for many years, and would be glad to spend some time with you on the phone. I am a graduate of the Harvard Law School and have a Master of Laws in Taxation from Georgetown. Call me at 301-913-0077. Thanks.

Jessica Alter Entrepreneur & Advisor

April 14th, 2016

Advice? Going to be hard to keep getting that for free if you don't have actual work for them to do now and into the future. Upcounsel is the best way to find high quality lawyers at lower prices >> upcounsel.com

Lee Lambert Director at Alameda County SBDC

April 15th, 2016

Tech Futures Group http://www.techfuturesgroup.org has IP advisors who may be able to work with you at no charge. They are funded by an SBA grant. You need to apply to work with them.

Eric Sherkin Partner at Miller Thomson LLP

April 14th, 2016

Our firm has a specific program for tech startups (our MTech program) - see attached link. I'd be happy to connect you.

http://www.millerthomson.com/en/our-services/mtech

Jim Falvey General Counsel & Advisory Board Member at Green Key Technologies

April 14th, 2016

Hi, Alexander. Similar to many of the responses here, I have provided legal services at substantially discounted rates for start-ups (aside from working for start-ups, I have served on their boards too).

Also, as has been noted, a number of large firms offer deals for start-up clients, such as Greenberg Traurig.

Feel free to contact me with questions: 312-404-5839.

Best,

Jim

Alexander Deeb Tech Entrepreneur & Software Professional

April 14th, 2016

Hi all,

Thank you very much for the insight, tips, and offers to chat. I am currently looking for adhoc advice because my startup is not yet at the point where it requires regular legal guidance. Going forward, however, that is a brilliant idea, Annick; thank you!

You have all been incredibly helpful, and I will be sure to reach out to you individually as needed.

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