Matt Sant and Greg Klein have been named co-chairs of the firm's Emerging Technologies practice group. The move formalizes a practice area that has long been part of Irell’s DNA — advising innovative companies developing disruptive technologies.

The group’s primary mandate is to advise emergent tech firms on a broad range of legal and business advice ― including business formation, intellectual property protection and licensing, venture capital and private equity financing, mergers and acquisitions, tax structure and public offerings.  The practice also counsels on employment issues facing young technology companies, such as executive compensation, director and officer issues, and stock option and incentive plans. 

In addition to clean tech and transportation, the Emerging Technologies practice has advised companies in the fields of electronics, entertainment, nanotechnology, information technology, biotechnology/genetics and cognitive science and artificial intelligence.  Irell's transactional Emerging Technologies practice is augmented by the firm's internationally-recognized intellectual property group.

“Matt Sant and Greg Klein are the ideal lawyers to head up our Emerging Technologies practice,” noted Irell managing partner David Siegel.  “Like many of the firm’s clients, they’re young, innovative and creative, with experience beyond their years.  Companies working to develop and commercialize new standard-setting technologies will find an ideal partner in Irell for advancing their businesses on all fronts.”