Sean Butler - 2014 Lean Startup Conference - Turning Lawyers into Allies

Lean Startup Conference 2014

Turning Lawyers into AlliesSean Patrick Butler

@spbutler

Agenda Problem Solution: reframe the issue How to win them over (3 tips) What it looks like when you do (2 ideas) Q&A

The problem…. Taking risks is essential for startups

For lawyers…not so much

The solution….

Reframe the lawyer’s role:business enablement

NOT risk management

Convincing your lawyers…

① Tell them it’s OK to fail…which really means: it’s ok to get sued

Convincing your lawyers…② Remind them that legal risk pales in

comparison to other startup risks…and lawyers should prioritize accordingly

Convincing your lawyers…③ Give them the conditions they need

to succeed• scarce but secure resources• independent authority• personal stake in the outcome

What it looks like when you do…

① They should be part of your team, not just someone you call

What it looks like when you do…

② They should release their own MVP’s

Lean Startup Conference 2014

Turning Lawyers into AlliesSean Patrick Butler

@spbutler

Appendix

Example: Calculating value of litigation