Jack C. Merrick, Esq.
JACK C. MERRICK, ESQ.
The

Startup Sherpa

Legal counsel for founders.
30 years around startups. Now I guide the next generation up.
Schedule a Free Call Send a Message

About

I've spent more than 30 years building companies — several of my own, and counseling businesses across entertainment, technology, and hospitality, from early-stage startups to established companies. Some have called me an "Executive Swiss Army Knife." Others, The Startup Sherpa.

How can I help you build something extraordinary?

30+ years
of experience
Countless
contracts drafted & reviewed

Legal Services for Founders

Founder. Attorney. Advisor. Here's where I help startups get the legal fundamentals right, from formation through fundraising.

Entity Formation

LLC / C-Corp formation, done right the first time.

Operating & Partnership Agreements

Clear terms. Strong foundations between co-founders.

SAFEs & Convertible Notes

Structure your early funding the smart way.

Trademarks & IP Protection

Protect your brand and your ideas from day one.

Insurance & Risk Assessment

Smart referrals to safeguard what you're building.

Strategic Marketing & Networking

Powerful connections. Real opportunities.

Common Questions

Do I need a lawyer to start a company?
Not to file the paperwork itself — but a short consultation before signing anything with a co-founder, investor, or contractor is cheap insurance against the mistakes that show up later.
LLC or corporation?
If there's a real chance of raising venture capital, default to a Delaware C-Corp. Otherwise, an LLC is often simpler and cheaper to maintain.
What's a SAFE, in one sentence?
A simple contract giving an investor the right to equity later, at your next priced round, without being a loan.
How do we split equity with my co-founder?
There's no universal formula — but it should be a deliberate conversation, and it should always come with vesting.
Which states do you handle entity formation in?
California — where I'm licensed — plus Delaware, Nevada, and Wyoming, the three states most startups incorporate in regardless of where they're based. For entity formation in any other state, I'm happy to help you find the right local counsel.

First Consultation Is Free — Let's Talk

Big-picture business experience. Startup-friendly legal rates. If you're building something, I want to hear about it.

Prefer to just grab a time?
Pick a slot on my calendar — no back-and-forth required.

Schedule a Free Call →
OR SEND A MESSAGE

This opens your email client with your message pre-filled to jack@sherpalawyer.com.

📞 323-839-9161 ✉️ jack@sherpalawyer.com