Merritt & Merritt – Burlington, VT

Pioneering Corporate and IP Law in Vermont

Founded in 1989 by Ken and Sharon Merritt, Merritt & Merritt has distinguished itself as a premier law firm in Burlington, Vermont, with a unique focus on corporate law, securities, and intellectual property. This is not a typical law firm; it is a certified B Corporation, demonstrating a profound commitment to responsible social and environmental practices alongside providing the highest quality legal services. With decades of experience, the firm has been instrumental in the growth of some of Vermont’s most iconic brands, including Keurig Green Mountain, Seventh Generation, and Magic Hat Brewing Company, guiding them from inception to global recognition. Their team, composed of attorneys who began their careers at large firms in New York and Boston, brings ‘big firm’ experience to a more personal, responsive, and affordable setting, making them an ideal partner for startups and growth companies. 📈

Business Formation and Corporate Law

Merritt & Merritt excels in providing strategic legal counsel for businesses at every stage. They focus on understanding each client’s unique business goals to offer innovative and tailored solutions. The firm’s objective is to serve as a long-term strategic resource, enabling businesses to grow and excel in a competitive landscape.

• Business Formation Lawyers: Assisting entrepreneurs with the critical early stages of business development, including entity selection, structuring, and governance to create a strong legal foundation.
• Contract Lawyers: Expertise in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a wide array of business contracts to protect client interests and ensure clarity and enforceability.
• Corporate and Securities Law: Deep experience in handling complex corporate transactions, mergers, acquisitions, and securities compliance for both emerging and established companies.

Leading Intellectual Property Practice

The firm hosts one of New England’s most respected intellectual property (IP) practices. Protecting a company’s most valuable assets—its ideas and brand identity—is a cornerstone of their service. They offer comprehensive support for identifying, securing, and defending intellectual property rights.

• Trademark Lawyers: Guiding clients through the process of trademark selection, registration, and enforcement to build and protect a strong brand identity.
• Copyright Lawyers: Advising creators, innovators, and businesses on securing copyright protection for their original works and navigating the complexities of copyright law.

A Commitment to Social Responsibility

As a B Corporation, Merritt & Merritt is a leader in the socially responsible business movement. This commitment is woven into every aspect of their practice. They operate from a LEED-certified building and actively promote a business ethic that values the natural, human, and economic environments. Founder Ken Merritt was instrumental in drafting Vermont’s Benefit Corporation legislation. 🌍

• B Corporation and Impact Investing: The firm possesses specialized knowledge in the legal frameworks surrounding B Corporations and provides counsel to businesses focused on impact investing and social enterprise.
• Community Leadership: Ken Merritt’s founding of the Vermont Venture Network and his C. Harry Behney Lifetime Economic Development Achievement Award highlight the firm’s deep integration and leadership within Vermont’s entrepreneurial community.