About

Provided by Fenwick

Fenwick provides a broad range of services to emerging companies in technology and life sciences and the investors who partner with them. Our clients include 1,500+ VC-backed companies, including 80+ VC-backed unicorn companies with valuations over $1B.


Our practice is distinguished for its:

  • Deep understanding of how technology companies are formed, financed, grown and taken public or merged
  • Guidance at all stages, from initial funding through IPOs and mergers
  • Guidance on business model issues, fundraising strategy and development of quality investor materials suitable for meaningful evaluation
  • Role as trusted advisor during meetings with management and the board
  • Practical legal advice, delivered with sound business judgment
  • Resources for entrepreneurs through all stages


Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers
Venture Capital - California
1
Band 1
What the team is known for

Fenwick has an esteemed venture capital practice that houses an impressive bench of experienced practitioners. Acts for emerging companies in corporate and financing transactions, and also offers significant expertise in late-stage funding. Particularly noted for its activity in the technology sector, with specific knowledge of gaming, cryptocurrency, digital health and fintech.

Work Highlights

Provided by Fenwick
  • Fenwick represented Whatnot in its $260 million Series D financing at a valuation of $3.7 billion.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers
S
Gordon K Davidson
S
Senior Statespeople

Gordon Davidson is renowned for his ability to handle venture finance matters. He participates in market-leading transactions, advising companies in the technology and health sectors.

"Gordon is a superb lawyer."

"He is a legend in the market."

2
Cynthia Clarfield Hess
2
Band 2

Cynthia Clarfield Hess cochairs the firm's startups and venture capital group, regularly representing emerging technology companies in funding rounds. She possesses additional experience in IPOs and other matters.

"Cindy is a great lawyer."

2
Mark C Stevens
2
Band 2

Mark Stevens services an impressive roster of company-side clients in the technology, gaming and other digital media industries. He has notable experience of advising companies on their fundraisings.

"Mark always provides a mix of great legal advice and practical knowledge."

2
Michael T Esquivel
2
Band 2

Michael Esquivel has notable experience of advising technology startups throughout their life cycle, from formation to sale. A particular area of strength is advising clients on financing.

"Mike is a very strong lawyer."

4
Dawn Belt
4
Band 4

Dawn Belt supports organizations throughout their lifecycle, including during financings and formations.

"Dawn is a fine lawyer."

4
Samuel B Angus
4
Band 4

Samuel Angus's venture practice involves handling financings for both investor-side and company-side clients. His recent work has included handling significant fundraisings.

4
Steven Levine
4
Band 4

Steven Levine regularly advises companies and investors across the retail and technology sectors on early-stage financing matters. He is adept at providing counsel on fundraisings.

Ranked Lawyers at
Fenwick

Provided by Chambers
Filter by
Band

California

Venture Capital

S
Gordon K Davidson
S
Senior Statespeople
2
Cynthia Clarfield Hess
2
Band 2
2
Mark C Stevens
2
Band 2
2
Michael T Esquivel
2
Band 2
4
Dawn Belt
4
Band 4
4
Samuel B Angus
4
Band 4
4
Steven Levine
4
Band 4