About Us
Shepherd Legal PLLC is an AI-native law firm built specifically for startups. By combining experienced attorneys with cutting edge AI, Shepherd delivers core legal work 5-10× faster and cheaper than traditional firms.
The firm's contextual AI learns each client's business, risk appetite, and deal preferences, enabling personalized legal solutions at fixed costs- eliminating the unpredictability of traditional billable hours. Unlike pure technology platforms, Shepherd clients work directly with dedicated attorneys who provide strategic guidance and relationship-driven counsel throughout their journey.
The Opportunity
We're seeking our second attorney to join our founding team. This isn't just a job- it's a chance to help build and shape the future of legal services from the ground up. You'll work directly with our founding attorney, collaborate on strategic decisions, and play a critical role in defining how we serve our clients and grow our practice.
What You'll Do
• Advise startups and growth companies on corporate law matters, including entity formation, governance, and compliance
• Structure and negotiate venture capital financings, SAFEs, convertible notes, and other funding instruments
• Develop and implement IP strategies to protect client innovations
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements, employment contracts, and vendor agreements
• Ensure corporate compliance across multiple jurisdictions
• Collaborate on building efficient, AI-enhanced legal workflows
• Help shape firm culture, processes, and client service standards
• Contribute to thought leadership and business development efforts
What We're Looking For
Required:
• Active Arizona Bar membership in good standing
• 8+ years of corporate law experience
• Proven track record in startup advisory and venture capital financing
• Strong understanding of corporate governance and compliance
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills
• Tech-savvy and comfortable working with AI-powered tools
Preferred:
• Experience with IP strategy and protection
• Prior startup or growth company in-house experience
• Familiarity with AI and legal technology platforms
Essential Qualities:
• Entrepreneurial mindset - You thrive in ambiguity and love building something new
• Collaborative spirit - You believe the best work happens when people work together
• Client-focused - You genuinely care about helping founders succeed
• Change-maker - You're excited to challenge the status quo and improve how legal services are delivered
• Adaptable - You're comfortable with rapid iteration and evolving processes
What We Offer
• Competitive compensation: $145,000-160,000 base salary
• Meaningful equity: Early-stage equity stake with significant upside potential
• Full autonomy: Remote work with flexible scheduling
• Direct impact: Shape the firm's direction, culture, and service offerings
• Cutting-edge tools: Work with AI-powered legal technology from day one
• Professional growth: Opportunity to build expertise while building a firm
• Mission-driven work: Help democratize access to high-quality legal services for the startup ecosystem
We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.