CLIENT STORIES
Learn how we help innovative founders navigate complex legal challenges and scale with confidence.
A Genetics Technology Company Finds a Perfect Fit
The Challenge
A promising genetics-based life science company had been working with Fenwick, a prestigious law firm renowned for its expertise in the tech and life sciences sectors. While Fenwick delivered on basic transactional needs, the company felt lost in the shuffle of a large and impersonal firm. After acquiring one of our clients, the company observed firsthand the depth of engagement and tailored advice Valle Legal provided—without the excessive fees and bureaucracy that often accompany firms of that size.
Our Solution
Upon transitioning to Valle Legal, the company experienced a noticeable shift in the quality of legal support. We took the time to deeply understand their operations, scientific priorities, and strategic goals. By maintaining consistent and proactive communication, our team became an integral part of their leadership discussions. For example, when the company prepared for negotiations to a complex milestone-based investing term sheet, Valle Legal provided nuanced, forward-thinking solutions that aligned with their long-term vision.
The Outcome
The company gained a legal partner that offered the same high-caliber expertise they expected from Fenwick, but with the added benefit of highly personalized and accessible service. Freed from excessive invoices and impersonal interactions, the leadership team expressed renewed confidence in their legal strategy. Today, they consult Valle Legal on matters ranging from fundraising to governance, trusting us to provide high-value insight at every stage of their growth.
A Supply Chain Software Company’s Journey to Proactive Counsel
The Challenge
After completing their Series Seed with Cooley, the founders of a supply chain software company were eager to focus on scaling. However, they felt that Cooley had failed to adequately explain the implications of key deal terms, leaving them uncertain about their cap table structure and how those terms could impact future fundraising efforts. The lack of proactive communication led the team to seek out counsel that could not only address their immediate legal needs but also serve as a strategic partner as they scaled.
Our Solution
Valle Legal stepped in to provide clarity and confidence. We began by conducting a detailed review of their Series Seed documents, breaking down complex terms and highlighting potential challenges. Our proactive approach didn’t stop there. When the company began preparing for its Series A financing, we worked closely with the founders and officers to renegotiate unfavorable terms from the Series Seed round, ensuring their long-term interests were protected. Throughout the Series A process, we remained engaged and diligent, advocating fiercely for the founders to secure the best possible terms from their new investors.
The Outcome
The Series A financing closed on terms far more favorable to the founders, preserving their equity and ensuring better protections for the company’s growth. The founders expressed relief at having a legal team that took the time to explain, advocate, and act in their best interests. By avoiding the communication gaps of a larger firm like Cooley, Valle Legal empowered the leadership team to focus on scaling their business with full confidence in their legal strategy.
Laying the Foundation for AI Success
The Challenge
A SaaS startup developing a novel AI technology approached us during their first preferred stock financing. The founders were feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the deal and were uncertain whether the terms offered by a prominent VC firm truly aligned with their long-term goals.
Our Solution
We didn’t stop at analyzing what’s “market” or “standard.” After carefully reviewing the term sheet, we identified significant risks, including excessive control rights for the VC and potential dilution scenarios. We explained these issues in plain language, ensuring the founders fully understood the trade-offs.
When the VC resisted changes during negotiations, we stood firm, advocating for the founders to retain more control over their board and operational decisions. Recognizing a misalignment with one of the proposed investors, we also advised the founders to exclude them from the deal, avoiding potential friction down the road.
The Outcome
The revised term sheet gave the founders better control over their company while minimizing dilution. They closed the round successfully and have since doubled in size, operating with the confidence that they secured terms aligned with their vision for growth.