Attorney - Corporate & Startup Law

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.

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.

• 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

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

• 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.