My primary practice areas are business counseling and corporate law. I initially began my career working at a class action law firm that focused on consumer rights. My practice gradually evolved into one that is based on transactional work due to my love for entrepreneurship and technology.
How has your practice evolved in the last few year?
My practice is increasingly focused on innovative equity allocation mechanisms for startup company teams. I anticipate that this area of my practice will continue to grow and that the businesses I represent will continue to grow as well.
If you could offer one piece of advice for young lawyers, what would it be?
Follow your dreams and just do it. It is great to gain experience under the supervision of a senior attorney, but make sure that you are not holding yourself back.
What’s one technological device, application or tool you could not function without?
My smartphone. I like to think that what separates working with me from other attorneys and firms is the personal relationship that I have with my clients. I strive to return all calls, emails, and text messages within 24-hours.
How has civility made a difference in your practice of law?
To put it simply, you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. I strive to enter every negotiation with the mindset that all parties involved can win.
One instance of civility that sticks out in my head occurred last year. After a grueling and lengthy negotiation process, opposing counsel and I could not achieve our goals. Some attorneys would have been very upset with the situation and might have taken their frustration out on me. Fortunately opposing counsel recognized the position that I was in and acted with the utmost professionalism.
What do you do for fun?
I enjoy working out, martial arts, and being outdoors. I am also a fan of endurance motor racing and pretty much anything that pushes engineering and technological envelopes.
Matthew Rossetti is the founder of Sentient Law, Ltd. His mission is to provide affordable, intelligent, and responsive legal services to business ventures.