Lawyer
DLA Piper
More than just a lawyer, very commercially savvy, plugged into tech and corporate
What Founders Think of DLA Piper (3)
I remember seeing a preso from Founders Institute that said this is what you want in a lawyer and showed a huge angry bear on its hind legs. Pretty much all lawyers and firms can handle the procedural stuff.. but its when you need to go into battle that you really discover who you have
Joel is that bear. Highly knowledgeable and efficient etc but really a machine when you really need to 'lawyer up'. Understands the startup space hugely and superb network as well
Always there as a sounding board, fair on fees, legitimately helpful.
More than just a lawyer, very commercially savvy, plugged into tech and corporate
About DLA Piper
DLA Piper is a prominent global law firm, headquartered in London, United Kingdom, known for its extensive international reach and innovative approach to legal services. Formed in 2005 through a significant transatlantic merger of UK-based DLA, US-based Piper Rudnick, and San Diego-based Gray Cary Ware & Freidenrich, the firm's origins trace back to legal practices established as early as 1798. Today, it stands as one of the largest law firms in the world, boasting approximately 4,300 lawyers across more than 40 countries and 90 offices worldwide, enabling it to deliver seamlessly executed legal solutions across diverse jurisdictions.
The firm provides a comprehensive portfolio of legal services that cover every stage of the business lifecycle. DLA Piper serves a wide array of clients, including multinational corporations, Global 1000 and Fortune 500 enterprises, emerging companies, financial institutions, and government bodies, with over half of the Fortune 250 and nearly half of the FTSE 350 or their subsidiaries counted among its clientele. Their practice areas span corporate, litigation, intellectual property, employment, regulatory, finance, real estate, and tax, among others, with a particular emphasis on handling complex cross-border transactions and disputes. This integrated global platform allows for tailored legal solutions and robust cross-border coordination.
What sets DLA Piper apart is its forward-thinking mindset and commitment to innovation. The firm actively embraces technology, evidenced by initiatives such as the launch of TOKO, a blockchain-based tokenisation platform, and the integration of data scientists to provide advanced commercial insights beyond traditional legal advice. They are consistently recognised for their innovation, earning accolades like being named one of the Most Innovative Law Firms in North America by the Financial Times. Leadership is provided by Global Co-CEOs Frank Ryan and Charles Severs, who guide the firm in its strategic growth and client-centric approach.
Beyond commercial success, DLA Piper is deeply committed to responsible business practices and social impact. Through its non-profit affiliate, New Perimeter, the firm provides long-term pro bono legal assistance in underserved regions globally, focusing on areas such as children's rights, access to justice, and aiding asylum seekers and refugees. This dedication to pro bono work and sustainability is integral to the firm's values, reinforcing its role as a responsible global leader. Their consistent ranking as a top global law firm and their number one position in Mergermarket's M&A league tables since 2010 underscore their exceptional market standing and client trust.
DLA Piper at a glance
What founders think of DLA Piper
๐ฌ Overall sentiment
Among founders featured on Founder Signal, DLA Piper garners consistent praise for its strategic legal partnership and profound understanding of the startup landscape. Reviewers frequently note that the firm offers more than just procedural legal advice, acting as a crucial strategic ally. One verified reviewer highlighted their team as "more than just a lawyer, very commercially savvy, plugged into tech and corporate," emphasising their deep industry connections and business acumen.
โญ What stands out
Another founder valued the firm's responsiveness, stating they were "always there as a sounding board, fair on fees, legitimately helpful," indicating a supportive and accessible approach to client relations. The firm's strength is particularly evident when founders encounter high-stakes situations. A verified reviewer vividly described the experience of needing to "lawyer up," noting the team becomes a "machine when you really need to 'lawyer up'," capable of formidable representation in legal battles.
๐ Room to grow
This reviewer also commended their deep understanding of "the startup space hugely and superb network as well," making them invaluable for navigating complex challenges. While specific concerns were not raised in these reviews, the overwhelming sentiment suggests founders most benefit from DLA Piper's proactive strategic counsel, powerful advocacy in critical junctures, and extensive network within the tech and corporate sectors. The consensus points to a firm that offers robust support and formidable legal expertise, positioning them as a highly effective partner for dynamic and growing businesses.
AI-generated summary based on verified founder reviews
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