We are an early-stage company preparing for launch this year. The business is currently pre-revenue and operating without outside funding. Our first strategic partnership has been confirmed and is now moving through launch preparation and execution.At this stage, the company is building its legal, operational, and governance foundation ahead of initial revenue and a first institutional or strategic raise. This is an early environment where discretion, sound judgment, and practical legal guidance matter more than bureaucracy.About the RoleWe are seeking experienced Legal Counsel to support the company from pre-launch through initial funding and early growth. This role will act as a trusted legal advisor to the Founder, CEO & supporting matters including:Corporate governance and entity structuringStrategic partnerships and commercial agreementsIntellectual property and data considerationsEmployment and contractor mattersFundraising and investor-readinessThis is not a full-time in-house role at this stage. We are seeking a fractional, contract, or retainer-based legal counsel with meaningful experience advising early-stage companies.Compensation TransparencyThe company currently has no revenue and no working capital. There is no upfront cash retainer available at this time. Compensation is expected to be structured creatively and transparently, potentially including deferred fees, a limited retainer once capital is secured, and/or a modest equity component, aligned with company needs and funding milestones.This role is best suited for counsel who are comfortable advising early-stage companies during the gap between formation, first partnerships, and initial funding.Key ResponsibilitiesCorporate & GovernanceAdvise on company formation, governance, and corporate structureSupport founder agreements, equity matters, and cap table readinessEnsure foundational legal compliance appropriate for an early-stage companyPartnerships & Commercial AgreementsDraft, review, and negotiate partnership agreementsSupport execution of the company's initial strategic partnershipAdvise on risk, obligations, and long-term implications of agreementsIntellectual Property & ConfidentialityEnsure proper IP ownership, assignment, and protectionDraft and review NDAs and confidentiality agreementsEmployment & Contractor MattersDraft and review employment and independent contractor agreementsAdvise on classification, compliance, and early hiring practicesAdvise on investor readiness and legal preparation for fundingReview or support SAFEs, term sheets, and related documents as neededQualificationsRequiredLicensed attorney in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdictionDemonstrated experience advising early-stage startups from pre-launch or formation through fundraisingStrong background in corporate, commercial, or startup lawAbility to provide practical, business-oriented legal guidanceHigh standards of discretion and professionalismPreferredExperience working with founder-led companiesExperience advising on early partnerships and go-to-market agreementsFamiliarity with startup fundraising structures and investor expectationsEngagement StructureFlexible engagement model (fractional, contract, or retainer-based)Ability to respond to time-sensitive matters during launch and partnership executionCompensation and scope to be determined based on experience and engagement structureConfidentiality & TrustThis role will involve access to sensitive, pre-launch company information, strategic plans, and partnership details. Absolute discretion and adherence to confidentiality requirements are mandatory.How to Express InterestPlease provide:A brief overview of your experience advising early-stage startupsYour preferred engagement model (fractional, retainer, or contract)Availability and typical fee structure#J-18808-Ljbffr