Attorney - Corporate & Startup Law
About Us
Shepherd Legal PLLC is an AI-native law firm built specifically for startups. By combining experienced attorneys with cutting edge AI, Shepherd delivers core legal work 5-10× faster and cheaper than traditional firms.
The firm's contextual AI learns each client's business, risk appetite, and deal preferences, enabling personalized legal solutions at fixed costs- eliminating the unpredictability of traditional billable hours. Unlike pure technology platforms, Shepherd clients work directly with dedicated attorneys who provide strategic guidance and relationship-driven counsel throughout their journey.
The Opportunity
- We're seeking our second attorney to join our founding team. This isn't just a job- it's a chance to help build and shape the future of legal services from the ground up. You'll work directly with our founding attorney, collaborate on strategic decisions, and play a critical role in defining how we serve our clients and grow our practice.What You'll Do
- Advise startups and growth companies on corporate law matters, including entity formation, governance, and compliance
- Structure and negotiate venture capital financings, SAFEs, convertible notes, and other funding instruments
- Develop and implement IP strategies to protect client innovations
- Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements, employment contracts, and vendor agreements
- Ensure corporate compliance across multiple jurisdictions
- Collaborate on building efficient, AI-enhanced legal workflows
- Help shape firm culture, processes, and client service standards
- Contribute to thought leadership and business development efforts
What We're Looking For
- Required:
- Active Arizona Bar membership in good standing
- 8+ years of corporate law experience
- Proven track record in startup advisory and venture capital financing
- Strong understanding of corporate governance and compliance
- Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills
- Tech-savvy and comfortable working with AI-powered tools
- Preferred:
- Experience with IP strategy and protection
- Prior startup or growth company in-house experience
- Familiarity with AI and legal technology platforms
- Essential Qualities:
- Entrepreneurial mindset - You thrive in ambiguity and love building something new
- Collaborative spirit - You believe the best work happens when people work together
- Client-focused - You genuinely care about helping founders succeed
- Change-maker - You're excited to challenge the status quo and improve how legal services are delivered
- Adaptable - You're comfortable with rapid iteration and evolving processes
- What We Offer
- Competitive compensation: $145,000-160,000 base salary
- Meaningful equity: Early-stage equity stake with significant upside potential
- Full autonomy: Remote work with flexible scheduling
- Direct impact: Shape the firm's direction, culture, and service offerings
- Cutting-edge tools: Work with AI-powered legal technology from day one
- Professional growth: Opportunity to build expertise while building a firm
- Mission-driven work: Help democratize access to high-quality legal services for the startup ecosystem
We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Apply Now
Apply Now