Legal Services for Bootstrapped Founders

Legal services built by a bootstrapped founder who became a startup attorney. Get the essential legal protection your startup needs without breaking the bank.

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Founder Economics

Essential Legal for Every Stage

Reimagining legal services for bootstrapped founders. We use technology and founder insight to deliver 60-85% savings without sacrificing quality.

Founded by Experience

I've Been in Your Shoes

"11 years ago as a bootstrapped founder, I received a $10,000 legal quote when my entire funding was only $10,000. As both a lawyer and entrepreneur, I knew there had to be a better way." — HQ, Founder & Attorney

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Each service includes attorney consultation • No surprises, just straightforward pricing

The Democratizer Model

We use technology and efficiency to make high-quality legal services accessible to bootstrapped founders at dramatically reduced costs.

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Straight Talk

Frequently Asked Questions

Real questions from business owners about our legal services

Do you only form Delaware corporations like other services?

Unlike many legal services that only handle Delaware corporations, we help you form your business in the state that makes the most sense for YOUR situation. For many bootstrapped companies, forming in your home state can save on filing fees and simplify compliance. We'll guide you through the pros and cons of different states based on your specific business goals. Learn more about our Delaware alternative approach.

Why are your prices lower than traditional law firms?

We've streamlined our processes specifically for startups, allowing us to work more efficiently. By focusing exclusively on early-stage businesses, we can use standardized frameworks and technology to deliver high-quality legal services at more accessible price points. See our detailed price comparison to understand how we save you 60-85% on legal costs.

How can you offer quality legal services at such affordable prices?

Forthlaw uses the "Democratizer" business model pattern, which focuses on making high-quality legal services accessible to market segments that traditionally couldn't afford them. We combine technology innovation with efficient delivery methods to dramatically reduce costs while maintaining quality. Learn more about our business model and how it benefits bootstrapped founders.

What if my business needs change during the process?

We understand that startups evolve quickly. If your needs change during the process, we'll work with you to adjust our services accordingly. Our goal is to be flexible and responsive to your business reality.

Are there any hidden fees I should know about?

No. We're transparent about our pricing and will always make it clear when government filing fees or other third-party costs are not included in our packages. We provide a clear quote before starting any work.

How quickly will I receive my legal documents?

Most standard documents are delivered within 5-7 business days. For rush orders, we offer expedited services at an additional fee. The specific timeline will be discussed during our initial consultation.

How do I handle team equity and vesting?

Our Team Equity Package guides you through allocating equity to team members, implementing vesting schedules (typically 4-year with a 1-year cliff), and filing 83(b) elections with the IRS. We help you understand the differences between restricted stock and options, set up milestone-based vesting for advisors, and create legally sound equity plans that protect your company as it grows. This tends to be an educational journey for many founders, and we make the process simple to understand.

What's an 83(b) election and why is it important?

An 83(b) election is a tax filing that founders and employees must make within 30 days of receiving equity subject to vesting. It allows you to pay taxes on the total value of your equity grant at the time of grant (usually when the value is very low) rather than paying taxes as shares vest (when they might be worth much more). Missing this 30-day window can result in a significantly higher tax burden. Our Team Equity Package includes guidance on properly filing this critical document with the IRS, potentially saving you thousands in future taxes.

What if I'm not sure which package is right for me?

All our services have consultations baked in, and we can always talk about what you need to help determine which services best fit your current stage and needs. We'll never upsell you on services you don't need at your current stage.

What if I don't see a service I need?

Email [email protected] to inquire about additional options. What might feel like a unique legal situation is often a common challenge we've solved before.

Founder-Friendly Legal

The Forthlaw Difference

We understand the bootstrap journey. Our services are designed specifically for entrepreneurs who need essential legal protection without the excessive fees of traditional law firms.

Real Attorney Consultation

Not just software—actual legal guidance included with every package

Fixed-Fee Transparency

No billable hour surprises—just clear, flat-rate packages that save you 58-87% vs traditional firms

Tech-Powered Speed

Automated document generation and streamlined processes deliver most services faster than traditional firms

Founder + Lawyer Perspective

Built by someone who's been both a bootstrapped founder and a practicing attorney. We understand your constraints and opportunities.

State-Smart Formation

We help you choose the right state for your business. Save money and complexity when it makes sense.

Business-Focused Legal

We understand the nuances of modern business models and can speak your language, whether you're building software, services, or physical products.

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Real attorney consultation included
Transparent pricing • No surprises