Mark Underwood
Business / Contracts, Business Formation, Entertainment, Intellectual Property, Mergers & Acquisitions, Startups (Transactional)
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Personal Introduction
I am a Fractional Chief Legal Officer (CLO) with extensive experience advising technology and product startups on all aspects of their legal needs, from formation and fundraising to compliance and intellectual property. As a trusted partner to founders, I manage the full spectrum of legal issues, ensuring startups are structured for growth and regulatory success—let’s discuss how I can help your clients thrive.
Practice Composition
Transactional
Education
Practice Summary
I provide comprehensive legal support to technology and product startups, particularly those focused on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and intellectual property (IP). My practice includes advising founders on company formation, fundraising, IP protection, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth, ensuring businesses are legally equipped to innovate and scale. By navigating complex legal landscapes, I help startups safeguard their technology, manage risk, and maintain compliance while positioning themselves for long-term success.
Response Time
20 hours
Personal Interests & Charitable Work
1. Pro Bono Legal Services: Provide free or reduced rate counsel to early-stage startups in the Greater Grand Rapids area, focusing on formation and compliance. 2. Mentorship Programs: Mentor founders through startups.com and local business groups offering legal guidance on startup growth and risk management. 3. Speaker/Panelist: Make myself available to speak at local startup events like Start Garden and GR SmartZone, discussing legal strategies for tech startups. 4. Michigan Bar Committees: Serve on the Michigan Bar’s IP Section, contributing to legal resources for startups and tech innovation.
What is Overture?
Overture is an attorney-to-attorney referral network. Vetted attorneys refer matters they can’t take on to trusted colleagues and earn fee splits when they do, expanding what every attorney can offer their clients.