Overview

The attorneys at Lathrop GPM work with our clients from idea inception to succession, understanding your industry and emerging growth business needs at every step. Our attorneys are known as valued partners to clients. Company founders have said that hiring a Lathrop GPM attorney was “one of the best decisions they made.” One technology company founder said, “My attorney and their team knew my business and me, not just my industry. That proved beneficial in so many areas concluding in the sale of our business.” Another client said, “There is no way that our organization could have survived as a start-up without our attorneys ’ expertise.”

We understand what it takes to launch and grow a business because many of our attorneys have walked that path themselves. Our emerging growth companies team is recognized across the investment and entrepreneurial communities for our deep business acumen paired with unparalleled legal experience. We know that success isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about knowing your business, understanding your competitors, navigating your markets, and aligning your objectives with industry trends and emerging technologies. We offer creative legal solutions delivered with the speed and agility that entrepreneurs demand.

Why Choose Us?

Entrepreneurial Experience: We don’t just advise entrepreneurs; we are entrepreneurs. Many of our lawyers have started and run their own businesses, giving us unique insights into the challenges and opportunities you face. We bring this experience to the table in every interaction, helping you make informed decisions that propel your business forward.

Comprehensive Lifecycle Support: From inception to IPO or acquisition—and beyond—our team is with you every step of the way. We provide strategic legal counsel at every stage of your company’s growth, ensuring that your business is positioned for long-term success. Whether you need help forming your entity, securing financing, or navigating a complex merger, we have the expertise to guide you through it all.

Personalized and Strategic Guidance: We know that every business is unique. That’s why we take the time to understand your specific goals and tailor our advice to your needs. Whether you come to us frequently for advice on many topics or we are assisting with a specific transaction, our advice is always aligned with your vision and growth strategy.

Substantive Areas

We assist emerging and growth-stage companies in a wide range of substantive areas, ensuring that all legal bases are covered as you scale.

Entity Formation & Governance: We help you choose the right entity structure, establish governance frameworks, and draft shareholder agreements that set the foundation for future growth.

Financing Transactions: Our lawyers assist with all aspects of securing capital, whether through private, public or venture sources, ensuring compliance with state and federal securities laws. This includes debt and equity financing transactions from angel, venture and strategic investors to commercial lenders.

Employment & Compensation: We draft employment agreements, create stock options, and develop executive compensation plans that attract and retain top talent. We also assist with employment law counseling and dispute resolution.

Intellectual Property Protection: We secure and manage your IP assets, from patents and trademarks to copyrights and trade secrets, ensuring the protection of your innovations. This includes providing legal counsel on creating, protecting and enforcing your brand identity, technology transfers, and all aspects of protecting your company’s IP.

Mergers & Acquisitions: We guide you through the complexities of mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures, helping you structure deals that align with your long-term objectives.

Privacy & Data Security: Guidance on compliance and risk management in today’s digital landscape.

Our Services Also Include

  • Day-to-day strategic counsel throughout your company’s lifecycle
  • Assistance with property acquisition, leasing and related transactions
  • International expansion
  • Advice on structuring transactions to optimize tax outcomes
  • Strategies for preserving and transferring wealth within your business and personal life

At Lathrop GPM, we’re not just your lawyers—we’re your partners in success, helping you navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and achieve your vision.

Experience

Our track record speaks for itself:

  • Drone Security Company: Served as counsel from formation to securing over $24M in funding.
  • International Growth: Advised international companies on entering the U.S. market.
  • Minnesota Aurora FC: Supported the women’s soccer team in their crowdfunding offering, which garnered local and national attention for its community-owned, women-led organizational structure. The crowdfunding program brought in more than 3,000 investors to launch the team.

  • Personal Mobility Startup: Assisted in raising over $40M in equity across three financing rounds.
  • Social Platform: Led a $15M secured debt restructuring.
  • Technology Startups: Guided numerous startups from formation through seed funding and beyond.
  • Venture Funds: Represented various funds investing in technology startups.
  • Web Security Company: Managed the sale to a public company for $80M.