Joe Wallin helps founders structure their companies correctly from day one — so their stock is positioned to qualify for QSBS and maximize the Section 1202 exclusion at exit. With an LL.M. in Taxation from NYU and 25+ years advising startups, Joe chairs the Angel Capital Association's legal advisory council, helped draft Washington's equity crowdfunding law, and authored Angel Investing: Start to Finish (Holloway).
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Education & Credentials
- LL.M. (Taxation), New York University, 1996
- J.D., Seattle University School of Law, 1994
- B.A., University of Washington, 1990
- Admitted to the Washington State Bar
Practice Focus
Joe represents early-stage and growth companies from inception to exit and assists them with formation, equity and token compensation plans, angel and venture financings, mergers and acquisitions, and other significant business transactions. He also represents investors and executive teams in investments and acquisitions.
Public Policy & Community Work
Joe chairs the Angel Capital Association’s legal advisory council to its Public Policy Committee and is a founding member of its legislative affairs committee. He helped draft Washington’s equity crowdfunding law and works with policymakers nationwide to enact and improve state crowdfunding laws. Joe frequently testifies on behalf of small businesses and entrepreneurs and uses this blog to advocate for policies that encourage startup innovation.
Honors & Publications
Joe writes regularly on corporate and tax topics and has published articles in legal journals and industry publications. He is a frequent speaker at conferences on startup law, equity compensation, mergers and acquisitions, and securities regulation.
Representative Matters
Joe’s representative work includes leading early-stage financings, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic investments for technology and growth companies. He regularly advises venture-backed companies, founders and investors on financing rounds, stock option plans, corporate governance and cross-border transactions.
About This Blog
The Startup Law Blog distills complex legal topics—like Section 1202/QSBS, 83(b) elections and startup tax planning—into straightforward articles and resources for founders and investors. Joe shares insights from his law practice and invites guest experts to contribute. To stay up to date, subscribe via email to receive new posts.