Vesting, roles, IP assignment, exit and dispute resolution: settle them early, while everyone is still friends.
Vesting and cliff
Founder shares should vest over time with a cliff. This protects the company if a co-founder leaves early.
IP assignment
Every founder should assign relevant intellectual property to the company. Investors check this in due diligence.
Roles, exit and disputes
Define responsibilities, a decision-making matrix, good and bad leaver terms and a simple dispute resolution path such as mediation followed by arbitration.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and due dates change: please consult a professional before acting.