Department profile
Gunderson Dettmer Stough Villeneuve Franklin & Hachigian

Venture Capital: Fund Formation

USA Guide 2026 : California


Gunderson Dettmer Stough Villeneuve Franklin & Hachigian

Rankings

About

Provided by Gunderson Dettmer Stough Villeneuve Franklin & Hachigian

Venture Fund Practice. We were one of the first law firms to dedicate itself exclusively to venture capital investors and startup companies. We’ve maintained that focus for more than 20 years and today represent VCs of all sizes – from industry leaders with tens of billions under management to emerging managers raising their first funds – in the U.S., Europe, China and other technology markets throughout the world.

We advise virtually all of the world’s leading venture capital brands. Our lawyers provide practical guidance on a full range of operational, formation, investment and liquidity issues for more than 450 venture capital managers.

Entrepreneurs & Emerging Companies. We are singularly focused on the startup and emerging company market. We launch hundreds of startups every year and are consistently recognized as the most active law firm in the venture capital market. We are uniquely experienced to help guide entrepreneurs through early stage issues and to help position them to achieve their goals. We provide clients advice and counsel on all of the most critical issues on a startup's road map. 







Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Venture Capital: Fund Formation - California


What the Team is Known For

Gunderson Dettmer Stough is a formidable corporate boutique that maintains a strong position in the market, representing startups and emerging growth companies as well as providing fund formation advice. The firm is particularly adept at venture capital financing and also frequently advises on private and public offerings, M&A and corporate governance. It offers particular expertise counseling companies in the life sciences, technology and telecommunications sectors.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Gunderson is a top firm.

    Venture Capital: Fund Formation respondentUSA
  • They are a powerhouse in fund formation.

    Venture Capital: Fund Formation respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Sean Caplice
    Band 1Sean Caplice

    Sean Caplice

    Sean Caplice benefits from a remarkable reputation in the venture capital space. His extensive market experience makes him highly sought after by sponsors to advise on the formation of funds to be invested in the US and internationally.

    • Sean is a rockstar, he's a really good lawyer.

      Venture Capital: Fund Formation respondentUSA
  • Band 1Steven R Franklin
    Band 1Steven R Franklin

    Steven R Franklin

    Steven Franklin receives high praise for his knowledge of all aspects of the raising and management of venture funds.

    • He is the king of fund formation.

      Venture Capital: Fund Formation respondentUSA
    • He is one of the godfathers of the industry.

      Venture Capital: Fund Formation respondentUSA
  • Band 2Ivan A. Gaviria
    Band 2Ivan A. Gaviria

    Ivan A. Gaviria

    Ivan Gaviria centers his practice on providing counsel to tech companies. He represents clients throughout their life cycle, offering significant experience in handling financing.

    • Ivan is an awesome lawyer with a very good practice.

      Venture Capital: Fund Formation respondentUSA
  • Band 4Trevor Knapp
    Band 4Trevor Knapp

    Trevor Knapp

    Trevor Knapp assists venture-backed companies with corporate matters and funding rounds throughout their lifecycle. He is active in the technology, energy, and healthcare sectors.

    • Trevor is an excellent lawyer.

      Venture Capital: Fund Formation respondentUSA

Ranked Individuals at Gunderson Dettmer Stough Villeneuve Franklin & Hachigian (4)

California

Members

Provided by Gunderson Dettmer Stough Villeneuve Franklin & Hachigian

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