Co-founder Agreement

A Co-founder Agreement is a legally binding document, enforceable under the Indian Contract Act, 1872, that outlines the roles, responsibilities, equity ownership, and expectations among co-founders of a startup. It details critical terms like equity splits, vesting schedules, intellectual property (IP) assignment, decision-making protocols, and dispute resolution mechanisms, ensuring alignment with the Companies Act, 2013 (e.g., Form PAS-3 for equity allotments) and Stamp Act, 1899, for legal validity. By clarifying ownership of securities like equity shares and protecting IP, the agreement mitigates conflicts, enhances investor confidence, and supports fundraising or exits. 

Novam Legal crafts tailored Co-founder Agreements, managing drafting, execution, and compliance to provide a robust legal foundation for your startup’s growth, from incorporation to scaling. Here’s how a Co-founder Agreement delivers value for your business:

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    Process Steps for a Co-founder Agreement with Novam Legal

    Startup Assessment

    We review your business model, cap table, and cofounder dynamics to align the agreement.

    Terms Structuring

    We design roles, equity splits, vesting, IP assignment, and dispute resolution terms.

    Drafting a Tailored Co-founder Agreement

    We draft a customized agreement covering all essential terms like vesting schedules, founder exits, decision-making protocols, and dispute resolution — no generic templates, only precise legal drafting.

    Agreement Drafting

    We craft a tailored, Stamp Act-compliant agreement with precise legal clauses.

    Founder Review

    We refine the draft based on feedback, ensuring all co-founders are aligned.

    Execution and Support

    We manage signing, stamp duty, and provide amendment guidance for future needs.

    Benefits of a Co-founder Agreement

    Operational Clarity

    Defined roles and voting thresholds streamline decisions and accountability.

    Equity Protection

    Vesting and clawback clauses ensure fair ownership, per Companies Act, 2013.

    IP Security

    Assignment clauses protect trademarks, patents, and trade secrets for startup value.

    Dispute Resolution

    Arbitration under Arbitration Act, 1996, minimizes conflicts and legal risks.

    Investor Appeal

    Compliant agreements signal governance, attracting investors and funding.

    Prerequisites for Cofounder Agreement

    Deliverables for a Co-founder Agreement with Novam Legal

    Frequently asked Questions

    A Co-founder Agreement is a legal document outlining roles, equity ownership, IP protection, and dispute resolution for startup cofounders, per Indian Contract Act, 1872.

    It clarifies roles, secures equity, protects IP, and ensures Companies Act compliance, reducing conflicts and boosting investor confidence.

    Roles, equity splits, vesting schedules, IP assignment, decision-making protocols, and arbitration clauses for dispute resolution.

    Yes, when stamped per Stamp Act, 1899, and executed, it’s enforceable under the Indian Contract Act, 1872.

    Yes, stamp duty under Stamp Act, 1899, varies by state to ensure legal enforceability of the agreement.

    IP assignment clauses transfer trademarks, patents, and trade secrets to the company, safeguarding startup assets.

    Equity splits are based on contributions, roles, and vesting terms, ensuring fairness and Companies Act compliance.

    Yes, via mutual consent and a supplementary agreement, stamped per Stamp Act, 1899, to reflect changes.

    Vesting and exit clauses outline equity clawbacks or transfers, ensuring fair handling per agreed terms.

    Novam Legal crafts customized agreements with Companies Act-compliant equity and IP clauses, tailored to your startup’s needs.

    Customized agreements address unique startup dynamics, reducing legal risks compared to generic templates.

    It signals strong governance with clear equity and IP terms, attracting investors for funding rounds.

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    Personalized guidance from startup legal experts for a smooth process.

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    What Our Clients Say

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    We’re proud to support both businesses and individuals in achieving their legal goals. Hear from a few of our satisfied clients who have benefited from Novam Legal's innovative solutions.
    Vivek P.

    Seamless, Efficient, and Professional—That's NOVAM Legal!

    When I decided to incorporate my business, I was overwhelmed by the complexities of the process. NOVAM Legal made it incredibly easy. Their team guided me through every step, handled all the paperwork, and ensured everything was compliant. The entire process was smooth and efficient, saving me both time and stress. I couldn’t be happier with the level of professionalism and attention to detail they provided. I highly recommend NOVAM Legal to anyone looking to incorporate their business!

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    Founder & CEO, TechWave Solutions
    Rupam O.

    NOVAM Legal was instrumental in our successful fundraising!

    We were in the midst of preparing for a critical fundraising round, and NOVAM Legal’s business valuation service gave us the confidence and clarity we needed. Their team provided an accurate and detailed valuation that resonated with potential investors, helping us position our company effectively. The process was smooth, transparent, and tailored to our specific needs. Thanks to NOVAM Legal, we were able to secure the investment we needed to take our business to the next level. I highly recommend their services to any startup looking for professional support during fundraising.

    Rupam O.

    Founder & CEO, Luxe Interiors
    Samar P. S.

    A stress-free, professional experience with NOVAM Legal!

    When I needed a critical business agreement drafted, NOVAM Legal delivered beyond my expectations. Their team was incredibly thorough, ensuring every clause was tailored to protect my interests while maintaining clarity and fairness. The level of detail and legal expertise they brought to the table was impressive, and they made sure to explain the complex legal terms in a way that was easy to understand. The entire process was seamless, and I felt confident knowing I had a well-crafted agreement in place. I would highly recommend NOVAM Legal to anyone in need of professional legal drafting services.

    Samar P. S.

    Freelancer
    Raj G.

    A stress-free, professional experience with NOVAM Legal!

    When I needed a critical business agreement drafted, NOVAM Legal delivered beyond my expectations. Their team was incredibly thorough, ensuring every clause was tailored to protect my interests while maintaining clarity and fairness. The level of detail and legal expertise they brought to the table was impressive, and they made sure to explain the complex legal terms in a way that was easy to understand. The entire process was seamless, and I felt confident knowing I had a well-crafted agreement in place. I would highly recommend NOVAM Legal to anyone in need of professional legal drafting services.

    Raj G.

    Founder & CEO, Xentrix Corp.

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