Most legal problems founders encounter later are baked in during the first few months of a company's life. The good news: most of them are cheap to prevent and expensive to fix.

Start with entity formation. Choose the right structure for your tax profile, investor plans and founder composition. A mismatched structure costs real money to unwind.

Write founder agreements before you need them. Equity splits, vesting schedules, decision rights and exit provisions should be in writing from day one. The conversation is easier when nobody is angry yet.

Separate personal and corporate finances immediately. Commingling destroys the liability shield you formed the company to get.

Protect your IP. Assign all founder and contractor work product to the company in writing. File trademarks early. Document trade secrets properly.

Establish employment foundations before your first hire: offer letters, confidentiality agreements, and a simple handbook. Compliance is cheap until it is not.

Finally, build a relationship with outside counsel before you need urgent help. The hour you spend scoping a lawyer in month two is the best investment you will make all year.