Re:Ask YC: Startup crisis. Out of money and tech co-founder ...
by bigtoga on Wednesday May 07, 2008 @02:24PM
(#183643)
Then write up a legal agreement that says she must be with the company for "x" years to earn the equity. Add in a little extra incentives for signing it ("Dual monitors!"). Once she signs it, fire her.
Regarding legal costs, I've used Pre-Paid Legal's Small Business Plan for a year. It costs $69/month and they do all sorts of stuff (and things like contract review are free). It isn't perfect but it has saved me the hassle of, "Should I sign this? Should I do it like this?" since I no longer have to worry about money when it comes to important legal decisions. URL: http://wserver0.prepaidlegal.com/legalzoom/SBpage2b.html
Re:Ask YC: Startup crisis. Out of money and tech co-founder ...
by rksprst on Wednesday May 07, 2008 @02:40PM
(#183688)
It doesn't matter if a legal contract was signed. As long as you undertook this venture with the agreement (verbal) that each person owns a part of the business, than it's the same as forming a legal partnership. Though, it wouldn't be useful to sue her unless you guys specifically agreed that she would finish the work, etc...
There is a contract for the company set and equity structure.