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Founder Agreement Lawyer in Delhi
Essential legal protection for co-founders - vesting, IP, roles, and exit
Co-Founder Agreement Services
Protecting founder relationships and startup interests
A Founder Agreement (Co-Founder Agreement) is a critical document that defines the relationship between co-founders. It covers equity split, vesting schedules, roles, IP ownership, decision-making, and exit provisions - preventing disputes that could kill your startup.
Key Clauses in Founder Agreement
Equity Split
Fair distribution based on contribution, role, and commitment
Vesting Schedule
Standard 4-year vesting with 1-year cliff
Roles & Responsibilities
Clear definition of each founder's duties
IP Assignment
All IP created belongs to the company
Founder Exit
Buyback, ROFR, and exit mechanisms
Dispute Resolution
Arbitration and deadlock resolution
Standard Vesting Schedule Explained
🎯 4-Year Vesting Period
Founders earn their equity over 4 years of continued service
⏰ 1-Year Cliff
No equity vests in first year. If founder leaves before 1 year, they get nothing
📈 Monthly Vesting
After cliff, equity vests monthly over remaining 3 years
🏃 Accelerated Vesting
Full vesting upon acquisition or termination without cause
Why Your Startup Needs a Founder Agreement
Our Founder Agreement Services
Agreement Drafting
Custom founder agreement as per your needs
Learn More →Equity Split Advisory
Fair equity distribution among co-founders
Learn More →Vesting Schedule Design
Custom vesting as per your requirements
Learn More →IP Assignment
Protecting company intellectual property
Learn More →Buyback Agreement
Equity buyback on founder exit
Learn More →Dispute Resolution
Resolving co-founder conflicts
Learn More →Frequently Asked Questions
Is a founder agreement legally binding?
Yes, a properly drafted founder agreement is legally binding and enforceable in court.
What happens if a founder leaves early?
Unvested equity is forfeited. Company has ROFR on vested equity at fair value.
What is a cliff period?
Minimum period (usually 1 year) before any equity vests, preventing short-term founders.
Do I need a founder agreement for 2 co-founders?
Yes, especially important for 2 founders to avoid deadlock and define decision-making.
Can we change the agreement later?
Yes, with unanimous consent of all co-founders through an amendment.
What is the cost of founder agreement?
Starts from ₹15,000. Free consultation available.
Starting Up with Co-Founders?
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