sean butler - 2014 lean startup conference - turning lawyers into allies
TRANSCRIPT
Lean Startup Conference 2014
Turning Lawyers into AlliesSean Patrick Butler
@spbutler
Agenda Problem Solution: reframe the issue How to win them over (3 tips) What it looks like when you do (2 ideas) Q&A
The problem…. Taking risks is essential for startups
For lawyers…not so much
The solution….
Reframe the lawyer’s role:business enablement
NOT risk management
Convincing your lawyers…
① Tell them it’s OK to fail…which really means: it’s ok to get sued
Convincing your lawyers…② Remind them that legal risk pales in
comparison to other startup risks…and lawyers should prioritize accordingly
Convincing your lawyers…③ Give them the conditions they need
to succeed• scarce but secure resources• independent authority• personal stake in the outcome
What it looks like when you do…
① They should be part of your team, not just someone you call
What it looks like when you do…
② They should release their own MVP’s
Lean Startup Conference 2014
Turning Lawyers into AlliesSean Patrick Butler
@spbutler
Appendix
Example: Calculating value of litigation