legallisted

# Legal Legal frameworks for startup founders. Not legal advice — frameworks to understand what you need and when to get a real lawyer. **IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER:** This skill provides general frameworks and checklists. It is NOT a substitute for qualified legal counsel. Always consult a lawyer for your specific situation. ## Keywords Legal, contracts, terms of service, privacy policy, entity structure, incorporation, IP, NDA, employment agreement, equity, vesting, GDPR, compliance, regulatory, licensing, LLC, C-corp, Delaware, trademark, patent, copyright, data protection, CCPA ## Core Domains ### 1. Entity Structure **When to incorporate:** - Before accepting money from anyone - Before hiring anyone (including contractors) - Before launching commercially **Entity comparison:** | Factor | LLC | C-Corp (Delaware) | S-Corp | |--------|-----|-------------------|--------| | Fundraising | Hard (VCs don't invest in LLCs) | Standard for VC | Not VC-compatible | | Taxes | Pass-through | Double taxation | Pass-through | | Equity | Complex membership units | Simple stock | Limited shareholders | | Best for | Lifestyle business, consulting | VC-backed startup | Small profitable business | **Default recommendation for VC-track startups:** Delaware C-Corp. **Why Delaware?** - Most VCs require it - Well-established corporate law - Chancery Court specializes in business disputes - Standard templates (NVCA) assume Delaware ### 2. Contracts & Agreements **Essential contracts by sta