Business Lawyers for Berkeley, California
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Meet some of our Berkeley Business Lawyers
Kevin A.
With nearly 20 years’ experience as a seasoned commercial real estate attorney, I am highly proficient in property acquisitions, financing, sales and transfers (including renewable energy and telecommunications projects), commercial lease agreements (office, industrial, retail, and hospitality), construction and property management contracts, due diligence matters, title and survey analysis, strategic litigation oversight, and corporate and regulatory compliance (operating agreements, bylaws, shareholder agreements, NDAs, and indemnity agreements).
"I hired Kevin to review a business lease and purchase agreement - he was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. 10/10, highly recommend!"
Alexander N.
Having overseen over $1.2 billion in transaction value, we are able to provide top-tier service at affordable rates, with much more personalized attention and fast turnarounds. After working for a AM Law Top 100 firm, I started my own firm and have been lucky enough to represent numerous conglomerates (FOX, Endeavor, etc.), promising startups, small businesses and private individuals. Our areas of expertise - Business Formations and Operating Agreements; Capital Raises and Debt Financing; Commercial Transactions; M&A; Real Estate; Intellectual Property; Employment and Hiring; Outside General Counsel; Corporate Agreements and Governance; Litigation and Dispute Resolution. We have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Marketwatch, Yahoo Finance, Variety, Business Insider, Los Angeles Magazine, the LA Times, and others. We are driven by an unwavering commitment to our clients, going above and beyond to deliver results.
"Very fast turnaround time, easy to work with, appreciate the contract review!"
Dolan W.
You need a lawyer who's more than just knowledgeable – you need someone who's on your side. That's where I come in. I'll be there every step of the way, offering clear communication and proactive solutions. Whether you're starting a business or navigating a complex legal matter, I'll help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals. I also have drafted many templates to save you money. Just use this link - https://www.contractscounsel.com/client/lawyer-profile/3764#Templates Why Choose Me? I put you first I'm proactive I'm efficient I'm accessible
"The attorney was responsive, professional, and clear throughout the process. The work was completed within the agreed budget, and the final document addressed the revisions I requested. I appreciated the timely communication and the clean final product."
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ContractsCounsel made it very easy to find a lawyer to help our company with its legal questions.
April 10, 2024
Gordon F.
30+ Years counseling clients in entertainment, media and the arts and representing them in transactional, structural and strategic matters.
April 15, 2024
Justine F.
Versatile, analytical, detail-oriented California barred corporate attorney with a comprehensive real estate, transactional and finance background as in-house counsel to large real estate developers, asset and property management companies, Fortune 500 quick service retailers/restaurant franchisors and international energy franchisors (retail and gasoline/mini market). Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, work ethic and integrity. Enthusiastic and quick mastery of new responsibilities, technologies and business strategies.
April 25, 2024
Darren S.
Practiced civil litigation and bankruptcy law for 30 years.
June 11, 2024
Christopher S.
I've been a solo practitioner since becoming barred, though I've had part-time arrangements with firms and lots of as-needed of-counsel arrangements. I have extensive experience in family law, civil litigation, unlawful detainers, administrative law, with ample experience in probate court, criminal defense and other areas.
Tom G.
Tom Gallagher, one of our leading attorneys, has been recognized on numerous occasions as a distinguished lawyer and civil litigator in California. His extensive experience and proven track record have contributed to our firm’s reputation for providing top-notch legal services in areas such as commercial litigation, personal injury, real estate litigation, and corporate law. We strive to offer personalized solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, and we continue to build on our legacy of success. Tom enjoys cooking, biking, travel, surfing, golf, family and relaxing with a good book. Although dedicated to his family life and living a balanced lifestyle, Tom offers a flexible schedule and easy online booking to speak with him directly
July 26, 2024
Matthew S.
I am a business, Internet, and intellectual property lawyer. My practice is split between both transactional work and litigation. Prior to law school, I earned a master’s degree in computer science, which gives me the background and experience to understand technology, software, and the Internet better than most attorneys, and so my practice focuses on these areas. However, I represent clients in almost any industry, including real estate, construction, medicine, service, and consumer products.
September 3, 2024
Dennis S.
Dennis Sponer co-founded ScripNet, a uniquely designed Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) company in 1997. After serving as In-House Counsel for one of Las Vegas’ largest healthcare conglomerates, Dennis devised a payor based technological solution to the challenge of pharmaceutical payment and remittance. As one of the first workers’ compensation specific Pharmacy Benefit Managers in the industry, Dennis pushed the boundaries of what a PBM can do. ScripNet was a three-time winner of the Inc. 500 and was named to the Inc. 5000 numerous times thereafter. Clients of ScripNet included some of the largest carriers, governmental entities, and self-insured employers in the nation, including FedEx, Starbucks, Lockheed Martin, the Cities of Dallas, Atlanta and Philadelphia as well as the State of Texas and the State of Nevada. After fifteen years of exceptional growth and class leading industry recognition, ScripNet was acquired in 2012 by Optum Healthcare Solutions. After selling ScripNet, Dennis served as Executive Vice President for the acquiring company and was successful in integrating ScripNet into the larger entity. His latest venture, HSARx, was a consumer facing Pharmacy Benefit Manager focused on the owners of health savings accounts. He sold HSARx to SwiftScript in October of 2023. Dennis obtained his Juris Doctorate from Brigham Young University where he served as Note and Comment Editor of the Law Review. He then obtained his Master of Laws in Taxation (L.L.M.) from the University of San Diego. After selling ScripNet, Dennis returned to school to earn his TRIUM MBA, the program jointly administered by New York University's Stern School of Business, the London School of Economics and HEC Paris. Dennis is a member of the 1999 Leadership Las Vegas graduating class, was named by InBusiness Las Vegas to its annual Top 40 Under 40 list, is a graduate of MIT's prestigious Birthing of Giants program and holds a certificate in full stack development from MIT. Dennis is licensed as an attorney in California and Nevada and is a past President of the Las Vegas Chapter of the Entrepreneurs' Organization. He serves on the Southern Utah University School of Business National Advisory Board, the SUU Entrepreneur Leadership Council and the UNLV College of Liberal Arts Board. Through his consultancy, SRX Advisors, Dennis serves as an advisor and legal counsel to various startups, health care technology and artificial intelligence firms.
September 4, 2024
Jonathan W.
Jonathan Wright offers 30+ years of legal and business expertise to clients seeking a trusted advisor. His experience as a CEO and General Counsel for tech, healthcare, and biotech companies enables him to provide seasoned guidance on complex contracts, strategic agreements, and business transactions. Whether you're starting a company, navigating financings, or handling day-to-day corporate legal needs, Jonathan offers valuable insights and support.
September 27, 2024
Jo Ann G.
Provides outside general counsel advice to corporate or individual clients with a vast range of legal and business matters. Has extensive general counsel experience in a wide range of legal areas. Has a background as an in house general counsel in the manufacturing, retail and consumer goods industries.
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Browse Lawyers NowBusiness Legal Questions and Answers
Business
Assignment Of Partnership Interest
California
Can a partner assign their interest in a partnership to another person without the consent of the other partners?
I am a partner in a small business partnership and I recently discovered that one of my partners plans to assign their interest in the partnership to a third party without informing or seeking consent from the other partners. This raises concerns for me as we have a close-knit working relationship and I believe that such a significant change in ownership should require the approval of all partners. I would like to know if it is legally permissible for a partner to assign their interest in a partnership without the consent of the other partners, and what actions can be taken to protect the interests of the remaining partners in such a situation.
Dolan W.
Hello! My name is Dolan and I'm happy to answer this question. The short answer? Whether your partner can assign their interest without your consent depends on your partnership agreement. Most agreements require all partners to approve something like this, especially in a close-knit setup like yours. If there’s no agreement or it doesn’t cover this, state law usually allows a partner to transfer their financial stake (like profits and losses) but not their management rights or status as a partner without everyone’s okay. First, check your partnership agreement to see if this move breaks the rules. If it does, you can push back. If there’s no agreement, the new person likely can’t step into full partnership status without your consent. To avoid issues like this in the future, consider updating the agreement to require unanimous approval for transfers. If things get messy, a lawyer who knows partnership law can help you sort it out and protect your business. We can update your agreement, or at least revise it, on this site. Thanks so much! Dolan
Business
Private Placement Memorandum
California
Can you explain the legal requirements and implications of a Private Placement Memorandum?
I am currently in the process of raising capital for my startup through a private placement offering, and I have been advised to prepare a Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) to provide potential investors with information about the investment opportunity. However, I am unsure about the legal requirements and implications of the PPM, such as the necessary disclosures, potential liabilities, and how it interacts with securities laws, and I would appreciate your guidance on this matter to ensure I am in compliance with all relevant regulations and protecting the interests of both my company and potential investors.
Dolan W.
Hello! As you may know, the PPM serves as both a disclosure document and a protective measure, detailing specific aspects of the offering to help investors make informed decisions and shield your company from potential liability by clarifying risks, terms, and limitations. Legally, the PPM is governed by federal and state securities laws, including the Securities Act of 1933, which mandates that companies raising capital through private offerings adhere to specific disclosure obligations. To answer your question, a well-drafted PPM outlines the company’s business model, financials, potential risks, the structure of the offering, and any legal factors that might affect the investment. Disclosures typically cover the company’s financial status, market risks, management team, use of proceeds, investor rights, potential tax implications, and limitations on the transfer of securities. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) exempts private placements from full registration requirements through Regulation D, which contains rules such as Rule 506(b) and 506(c). Rule 506(b) allows you to raise funds from an unlimited number of accredited investors and up to 35 non-accredited investors, provided no general solicitation occurs. Under Rule 506(c), general solicitation is permitted but only accredited investors can participate, and their status must be verified. Best of luck and let us know what we can do to help! Dolan
Business
Earn Out Agreement
California
Can you explain the key provisions and potential risks involved in an Earn Out Agreement?
I am currently in negotiations to sell my small business and the potential buyer has proposed an Earn Out Agreement as part of the deal. While I understand the basic concept of an earn out, I am unsure about the specific provisions that should be included in the agreement and the potential risks involved. I want to ensure that I am adequately protected and that the earn out arrangement is fair and reasonable for both parties.
Dolan W.
Hello! My name is Dolan and thank you for using contractscounsel.com! This kind of agreement can be a great way to bridge the gap if you and the buyer have different views on your business's future value, but it’s not without its headaches. Basically, it lets the buyer pay part of the sale price later, depending on how the business performs. To keep things fair, you MUST have clear rules. I think for you need to nail down what performance targets you’re using such as revenue, profit, etc., and how they’ll be calculated. Be super specific to avoid arguments. Set a timeline for the earn-out, like 2–3 years, and agree on when you’ll get paid if targets are hit. You also need protection since the buyer will run the business after the sale. You don’t want them cutting corners or making decisions that could tank your payout. If the buyer mismanages things, you’re the one who loses. I think if you have some specific actions that the buyer promises to perform that you know helps the companies stay profitable or stay legally compliant (for example), including that in the agreement makes sense. You can ask for safeguards like minimum payments, say-so in major decisions, or money held in escrow. And, of course, make sure everything’s spelled out. We can draft these agreements for you here! Best of luck!
Business
Demand Letter For Payment
California
HI, being a freelancer and independent contractor( 1099) in CA, can I send a collections notice for non payment to client?
I am an independent contractor and freelancer in San Diego, California. I am a sole proprietor who offers training and consulting services. I use a contract agreement with my clients. Even after signing my contract, this client is unwilling to compensate me for the hours I spent working on his project. I would like to send this client a collections notice for non-payment. I would appreciate knowing the process. Thanks in advance
Matthew S.
Yes, you can send such a notice for nonpayment. I would send one in the form of a demand letter.
Business
LLC
California
What are the specific steps and legal requirements for forming a Single Member LLC in the state of California?
I am interested in starting a small business in California and have decided to form a Single Member LLC. I have done some preliminary research on the topic, but I am still unsure about the specific steps and legal requirements involved in the formation process. I would like to consult with a lawyer to gain a better understanding of the necessary documentation, filing procedures, and any other legal considerations that I should be aware of before proceeding with the formation of my Single Member LLC.
Dolan W.
Hello! Congrats on starting the business. So here are the general steps to forming an LLC in California: Reserve a name. The state says - For general information about name reservations and name style requirements relating to limited liability companies, please refer to our Name Reservations webpage. Create your Articles of Organization. With that, here is what you need: 1. You need agent for service of process 2, You need to identify manager or member-managed 3. You can add any information not inconsstent with info required in articles or by law 4. You need to create a name. The name must not be "likely to mislead the public: and must be distinguishable in the SOS records (Corp. Code section 17701.08(b).) You then need to fill out and file form LLC-1. The instructions are listed at this link - https://bpd.cdn.sos.ca.gov/llc/forms/llc-1.pdf Within 90 days of forming a California LLC, you’ll need to file an Initial Statement of Information. This form is free to file You can file this all online by clicking this link - https://www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs/bizfile/file-online Best of luck!
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