SSM Law PC - San Francisco, CA
SSM Law PC is a premier WBENC-certified women-owned corporate and tech law firm founded in 2016 by partner Teela Crosthwaite Smith. Headquartered in San Francisco, the firm delivers BigLaw-caliber counsel in business formation, venture capital financing, commercial contracts, intellectual property, and outside general counsel for high-growth tech startups and VC funds nationwide.
Innovative Corporate and Tech Law Counsel for Startups and Investors
Building and scaling a modern technology company demands sophisticated legal strategy tailored to fast-moving market dynamics. Operating from Spear Street in downtown San Francisco, SSM Law PC delivers forward-thinking corporate counsel to emerging companies, micro-venture capital funds, and tech founders across the country. When founders choose to hire a business lawyer from this agile boutique firm, they benefit from high-level transactional prowess delivered through a flexible, collaborative, and transparent legal model.
Founded in 2016 by managing attorney Teela Crosthwaite Smith-a graduate of UC Law San Francisco and UC Berkeley-SSM Law PC was created to offer an innovative alternative to traditional corporate law firms. Bringing extensive experience from top national practices, Teela Smith and her partners combine technical acumen with practical commercial insight. The firm proudly stands as a WBENC-certified women-owned practice, championing diversity while helping clients navigate every phase of the corporate growth cycle.
Comprehensive Business Formation and Transactional Practice Areas
From initial incorporation through venture financing rounds and strategic exits, SSM Law PC provides end-to-end transactional counsel across critical areas:
- Business Formation: Structuring Delaware C-corporations, LLCs, California professional corporations, and founder equity vesting agreements.
- Venture Capital Financing: Negotiating SAFEs, convertible notes, priced equity rounds, and crowdfunding terms for startups and VC funds.
- Commercial Contracts: Drafting master services agreements, SaaS terms, vendor contracts, and licensing agreements.
- Outside General Counsel: Providing ongoing corporate governance, employee option plans, and regulatory compliance advisory.
- Intellectual Property: Protecting brand identity and innovations through trademark filings, copyright protection, and privacy policies.
- Commercial Real Estate: Reviewing letters of intent and negotiating commercial leases to safeguard emerging business tenants.
- Business Dispute Resolution: Resolving founder conflicts, investor disagreements, and commercial contract claims.
Strategic Growth and Corporate Protection for Founders
In California's competitive corporate landscape, sound legal foundations protect companies from costly disputes and compliance traps. Entrepreneurs looking to find a business attorney benefit from SSM Law PC's practical perspective, fixed-fee arrangements for corporate packages, and direct partner access. Whether coordinating cross-border entity expansions or preparing for major venture rounds, the firm delivers trusted guidance.
Recognized Excellence in Tech and Startup Advisory
Lead partner Teela Crosthwaite Smith has been repeatedly selected to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars list for her top-rated transactional practice. The firm combines deep industry knowledge with an accessible, boutique ethos that helps businesses scale efficiently.
Schedule a Strategic Business Consultation Today
Retaining experienced legal counsel early empowers your business to scale with confidence and secure valuable investments. Contact SSM Law PC today at (415) 228-0480 to arrange a strategic consultation with an experienced San Francisco corporate lawyer.
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Location & Access
Primary Address
Located in the modern South Beach / Rincon Hill neighborhood, part of San Francisco's dynamic Financial District, just steps from the scenic Embarcadero waterfront.
Building Location
The office is located in a prominent 18-story, LEED Gold certified Class A office tower with a modern glass facade, offering panoramic views of the Bay Bridge. The building is situated near well-known establishments like Prospect restaurant and the Ferry Building.
Parking Details
A secure, public underground parking facility managed by ABM Parking is available on-site with direct elevator access to the building lobby (daily and hourly rates apply).
Public Transit
Served by San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Route 14 (Mission); nearest stop is at Mission Street & Spear Street.
Accessibility / Suite Access
Enter the main lobby from Spear Street and take a security-controlled elevator to the 11th floor to find the entrance to Suite 1100.