Law for the Entrepreneur

An elective built to explore legal questions and challenges faced by entrepreneurs and those supporting the success of entrepreneurs. Structured as an experiential and collaborative course, students will have the opportunity to explore legal issues presented throughout a company lifestyle. Starting with the inception of an idea, students will survey the considerations and processes required for forming an entity, protecting intellectual property, structuring incentive compensation for founders and employees, drafting agreements for service providers, vendors and customers, and preparing for an investment round. With the assistance of guest speakers and evaluation of case studies, students will have the chance to inquire about and access industry-specific considerations. The final project will consist of a mock conversation with interested investors, requiring the delivery of due diligence of the company, a snapshot of the companies pre- and post-round capitalization, and a presentation of the expected use for the financing. Final assessment will place heavy weight on class participation and group work.