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Insights
Management Rights Letter: Granting Institutional Investors Oversight Access
When startups take money from venture capital funds subject to ERISA or similar regulations, those funds need a special document: the Management Rights Letter (MRL). This short but powerful agreement ensures the investor has sufficient rights to “manage” their investment, helping them comply with legal requirements.
Indemnification Agreement: Personal Protection for Startup Directors and Officers
When startup leaders make tough calls - hiring, spending, pivoting - they expose themselves to personal liability. The Indemnification Agreement serves as a legal shield, protecting directors and officers against lawsuits, claims, and costs incurred while serving the company.
ROFR and Co-Sale Agreement: Managing Share Transfers While Preserving Cap Table Control
In venture-backed startups, control of the cap table is critical. The Right of First Refusal and Co-Sale Agreement (ROFR/Co-Sale) helps founders and investors maintain that control by regulating how shares are transferred - particularly when founders, early employees, or other major holders want to sell.
Voting Agreement: Aligning Shareholder Power in Key Company Decisions
While founders often assume they’ll control their company post-funding, the Voting Agreement tells a more nuanced story. This document outlines how shareholders agree to vote their shares on critical company matters, including board elections and future financing approvals.
FAQs
Open allWhy is employee classification so important?
Misclassifying employees as contractors or exempt workers can lead to back pay claims, penalties, and lawsuits.
What happens if my startup doesn’t have a Privacy Policy?
You risk fines under laws like GDPR and CCPA, removal from app stores, and loss of user trust.
How often should a Privacy Policy be updated?
At least once a year, or whenever you change your data practices, adopt new tools, or when laws change.
What’s the difference between a Privacy Policy and Terms of Service?
A Privacy Policy explains how you handle user data. Terms of Service govern how users interact with your platform. Both are essential.
Do all startups need a Privacy Policy?
Yes. If you collect any personal data - emails, IP addresses, or cookies - you need one. Most app stores and ad networks also require it.
Can I use a template for my Terms of Service?
Templates are a starting point, but your TOS should be customized to your business model, user base, and compliance obligations.
What’s the difference between Terms of Service and a Privacy Policy?
TOS govern how users interact with your platform, while a Privacy Policy explains how you collect, use, and store their personal data.
Do all startups need Terms of Service?
Yes. Any business with a website, app, or platform should have TOS to set user expectations and limit liability.
Are Terms of Service legally binding?
Yes - if properly drafted and accepted (usually through clickwrap), TOS create an enforceable contract between you and your users.
Can a Partnership Agreement be changed later?
Yes. Agreements should be reviewed and updated as the business grows or circumstances change.
Is a Partnership Agreement legally binding?
Yes. As long as it’s properly drafted and executed, it sets enforceable rules for ownership, profit-sharing, and decision-making.
Do I need a Partnership Agreement if I trust my co-founder?
Yes. Even the strongest relationships benefit from clear rules. A written agreement prevents misunderstandings and protects both parties if circumstances change.
When should a startup replace an MOU with a contract?
When the relationship involves money, intellectual property, or liability risk, you should transition from an MOU to a formal agreement.
Can MOUs be enforced in court?
Courts may enforce MOUs if they look like contracts—for example, if they include payment terms or obligations. To avoid confusion, clearly state whether the MOU is binding.
How is an MOU different from a contract?
Contracts create enforceable obligations. MOUs generally outline intentions and expectations but stop short of legal enforceability.