FinTech and Blockchain Counsel

A law firm situated in San Francisco, CA, is in search of an experienced FinTech and Blockchain Counsel with a minimum of 8 years of legal practice. The preferred candidate should have a comprehensive understanding of US federal securities laws and a track record of interacting with the SEC, with a strong emphasis on Blockchain and FinTech. This role involves providing legal counsel to blockchain technology companies, financial institutions, and digital asset exchanges, focusing on securities law issues, private placement agent requirements, custody rule requirements, cross-border regulatory challenges, and responding to FINRA and SEC regulatory inquiries. The candidate will also play a crucial role in structuring intricate deals related to technology companies, digital asset exchanges, and blockchain token offerings. Regular assistance will be required for financial services firms and their vendors in negotiating US and cross-border technology agreements, ensuring compliance with US securities laws, and addressing broker-dealer regulatory issues associated with such technologies.

Duties:

• Offer expert legal counsel on US federal securities laws and manage interactions with the SEC.
• Collaborate closely with blockchain technology companies, financial institutions, and digital asset exchanges to address securities law matters.
• Handle private placement agent requirements, custody rule requirements, cross-border regulatory issues, and respond to FINRA and SEC regulatory inquiries.
• Lead in structuring intricate deals related to technology companies, digital asset exchanges, and blockchain token offerings.
• Provide regular assistance to financial services firms and their vendors in negotiating US and cross-border technology agreements while ensuring compliance with US securities laws and addressing broker-dealer regulatory issues.

Requirements:

• A minimum of 8 years of legal practice experience.
• A deep understanding of US federal securities laws and a strong history of interaction with the SEC.
• Significant experience in Blockchain and FinTech.
• Admission to practice law in California or eligibility for immediate admission.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Admission to the State Bar of California or eligibility for immediate admission.

Skills:

• Comprehensive knowledge of US federal securities laws and their application to Blockchain and FinTech.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in structuring complex deals involving technology companies, digital asset exchanges, and blockchain token offerings.
• Ability to navigate cross-border regulatory issues.
• Knowledge of FINRA and SEC regulatory requirements.
• Strong negotiation and contract drafting skills for technology agreements.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on ensuring compliance with US securities laws and addressing broker-dealer regulatory requirements.

Associates at this huge international firm are generally given immediate client contact and often run their own conference calls, but not without supervision. With a new merger bringing in lawyers firmwide, this firm should be well-positioned to keep associates at the top of the pay scale while attracting new work for their well regarded financial institutions and regulated industries practice areas. Pro bono work is encouraged and is credited as billable hours. The firm's culture is open and supportive, and attorneys are willing to assist each other. Billable hours requirements are reasonable, and attorneys are encouraged to achieve a balance between their work and personal lives.