A Startup Legal Checklist for Founders

Great startups are built on solid legal foundations. Getting the basics right from day one prevents expensive disputes and makes you investor-ready.

Choose the Right Structure

Private limited, LLP or sole proprietorship — each has different implications for liability, tax and fundraising. Pick the one that fits your goals before you scale.

Put Founder Agreements in Writing

A clear founders’ agreement covering equity, roles, vesting and exit is essential. Most co-founder disputes come from things that were never written down.

Protect Your Intellectual Property

Register your trademark, secure your brand and code, and make sure IP created by employees and contractors is properly assigned to the company.

Stay Compliant

Keep on top of your statutory and regulatory filings from the start. Good compliance is cheap; fixing years of neglect is not.

• Company incorporation & statutory registers
• Shareholder, ESOP and investment agreements
• Employment contracts & policies
• Ongoing tax and regulatory filings