The partner network in the Canopy Community helps our members to solve problems quicker and better. Each partner is well known before we recommend them. You can be sure of a trusted partner who is startup friendly and who is a proactive contributor to the community as a whole.
These partners are “citizen organisations”. The founders of these partner companies are also often members of #tribe.
Problem
How do I find a law firm I can trust?
This is particularly important when you are first time founder, or starting out in a new country.
Solution
The best way is always to get a recommendation from a friend who has had to do similar things before.
Each of the law firms we recommend below have been involved with deals for Canopy or for Canopy members and have proved time and time again just how reliable and startup friendly they are.
Partner options
USA - https://www.gesmer.com/ - Speak with Steve
UK - https://www.championlaw.co.uk/ - speak with Fergus
Portugal - http://xvmc.pt/ - speak with Gustavo
In the UK and USA there are also a couple of platforms that you might like to consider:
Canopy reflections
Platforms can really help you to keep the costs down and to keep well organised, but remember they are not going to do the same kind of thinking for you that the law partners can. Nuance, context and understanding are key to good legal work.
At Canopy, we recommend a hybrid approach - building the commodity stuff out with a platform but having a long standing and well nurtured relationship with your favourite law firm partner. Speak openly and often to keep them up to date with all you are doing.