Harold J. Slawik

With over 25 years of experience working with early-stage and emerging technology companies, I bring a practical, deal-minded approach to helping clients navigate investment transactions, software and IP licensing, M&A, and day-to-day corporate matters. My career has spanned private law practice, high-growth startup leadership, and in-house roles at both public and venture-backed companies, giving me a well-rounded perspective that clients value as they scale their businesses.

Before co-founding New Counsel, PLC in 2006, I helped lead two startup companies in Silicon Valley during the dot-com era, serving as General Counsel at Diba, Inc. and later as Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at Niku Corporation. I’ve worked directly on more than 100 early-stage financings ranging from $100,000 to $15 million, and have negotiated dozens of transactions involving complex IP, joint development, and commercial licensing issues. I understand the pressure to move quickly, the need to manage legal costs wisely, and the importance of balancing risk with momentum.

My clients are typically early-stage companies with business software and healthcare technologies and products. Most of my clients seek investment capital at some point during our representation. I’ve built long-term partnerships with founders, executive teams, and investors by keeping deals moving, simplifying legal complexity, and offering clear, business-aligned guidance at every stage of the company lifecycle.

Joining Avisen Legal expands the resources I can offer my clients while staying true to the entrepreneurial spirit that’s guided my practice from the start. I’m excited to be part of a collaborative team of lawyers who understand the unique needs of growing companies and who share a commitment to practical, partnership-driven legal service.

My wife and I are the proud parents of three grown children and two young grandchildren. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, reading history and literature, traveling internationally, and spending time with those grandchildren.