Entrepreneurs

Our attorneys are determined to provide answers. Gunster’s team aspires to help clients to overcome obstacles so that they can continue to grow. The firm’s collective experience is extensive when it comes to representing entrepreneurs throughout Florida and beyond. Gunster attorneys have likely been there before, whether called upon to document the initial relationship between founders and stakeholders; protect confidential information and trade secrets; address contractual risk; overcome Internet, mobile and social media issues; and/ or execute an initial or follow-on public offering.

Gunster attorneys seek to carefully evaluate and understand each client’s business before providing legal advice. Rather than merely drafting documents, our attorneys endeavor to work closely with clients to ensure that our counsel provides value. Every client’s situation is different, and our attorneys strive to ensure that each client’s particular situation and goals are clear at the commencement of the relationship.

Our team’s goal is to look beyond present circumstances so that our clients can better plan for their future. Gunster lawyers strive to carefully consider the long-term strategic consequences of each matter. Today’s economic conditions and business regulations present unsurpassed challenges to the business community, making a long-term strategic outlook necessary in order to succeed.

Gunster attorneys work with clients involved in a wide variety of corporate financing transactions. Our aim is to help clients to realize their financing goals, from early stage “friends and family” and angel financing, to venture capital and private equity financing, as well as other complex and sophisticated financing transactions. Our attorneys assist with private placement and public offerings, from the initial public offering through subsequent public financing rounds. Gunster’s team is committed to helping clients identify and understand the strategic implications of their financing activities and the need to maintain financing flexibility for future transactions and situations.

Our Emerging Companies team is dedicated to working with clients to manage their growth. While rapid growth is often a positive accomplishment, it can lead to dire consequences if not managed correctly. Our attorneys strive to work closely with clients to help them recognize the challenges of rapid growth and to develop the plans and structures needed to maximize their chances for success. The firm is regularly involved in the various methods used to grow businesses, including the acquisition of additional business entities, franchising, technology and product licensing, distribution arrangements, joint ventures and other strategic partnerships and alliances.

A targeted merger or acquisition is often a key component of a successful growth strategy. The acquisition of other business entities can be a critical endeavor to realizing overall growth and value-building strategies. Gunster’s team advises clients in connection with these transactions, as well as on the sale of their businesses, whether for a final liquidity event or as a strategic disposition of part of the business. Our team is focused on advising clients regarding all aspects of these transactions, including transaction structuring, negotiation, tax considerations, documentation and due diligence.