Litigation & Employment Law for Startups

Meet John

Startups face unique and often intense challenges. John Yow is a legal strategist who has navigated these high-stakes environments from every angle. His career—from a litigator at Skadden and Arnold & Porter to VP of Legal for the Las Vegas Raiders and General Counsel for a high-growth startup—is built on solving complex problems where the risks are high and the path forward isn't clear. This experience, combined with the discipline and focus he developed as a nuclear officer in the U.S. Navy, allows him to provide decisive, practical counsel to founders and executives.

A Practice Built for Decisive Moments

John's practice is focused on the critical legal issues that determine a startup's success. Whether it's a founder dispute, a potential lawsuit, or a sensitive employment matter, he provides the strategic guidance to navigate the challenge and protect your company's future. His goal is to act as an extension of your team, providing experienced counsel precisely when you need it most.

Founder & Executive Advocacy

John represents founders, executives, and companies in their most critical moments. This work is often sensitive and requires a blend of legal acumen and business judgment.

• Founder disputes and separations

• Executive transitions and severance agreements

• Non-compete and equity issues

• Representation for individual founders and the company

Strategic Dispute Resolution

Litigation can be a fatal distraction for a startup. John specializes in resolving commercial disputes efficiently and aggressively, with a focus on pre-litigation strategies that achieve your business goals without the cost and risk of a protracted court battle. When a fight is necessary, he brings the experience of top-tier litigation firms to bear on your behalf.

• Commercial and contract disputes

• Pre-litigation counseling and strategy

• Arbitration and mediation

Proactive General Counsel

John acts as outside general counsel to help you anticipate and manage legal risks. This includes advising on difficult employment decisions, creating essential company policies, and providing day-to-day counsel on the legal issues that arise during high-growth phases.

• Advice and counsel on sensitive employment matters

• Terminations and internal investigations

• Contract drafting and review

• Policy creation