General Counsel for exciting blockchain project, part time, equity based

Launch Legends•Minneapolis, MN

About The Position

As a part-time General Counsel in an equity-based cofounder role, you will serve as the chief legal strategist and compliance architect, navigating the complex global regulatory landscape to safeguard our innovative technologies while enabling scalable business integration. You will provide expert counsel on securities law, digital asset classifications, data privacy, intellectual property protection for post-quantum cryptography and AI systems, corporate governance for our growing equity cofounder network, and strategic partnerships. This role is critical to ensuring Autheo operates at the forefront of legal innovation in blockchain while mitigating risks in an evolving regulatory environment.

Requirements

JD from a top-tier law school with active bar membership in at least one US jurisdiction (additional international qualifications a plus).
8+ years of progressive legal experience, with at least 4 years focused on cryptocurrency, blockchain, DeFi, or Web3 technologies.
Proven track record advising on token launches, securities law compliance (Howey test, Reg D, Reg A+ etc.), and regulatory strategy for blockchain projects.
Deep understanding of digital asset taxation, data privacy (GDPR/CCPA), and IP law in tech.

Nice To Haves

Prior in-house General Counsel or senior legal role at a blockchain/crypto company or fintech.
Experience with DePIN, Layer-1 protocols, or enterprise blockchain adoption.
Strong network with regulators, policymakers, or crypto legal specialists.
Publications or speaking engagements in blockchain law.

Responsibilities

Regulatory Strategy & Compliance
Lead development of global compliance frameworks for Layer-1 blockchain operations, DePIN infrastructure, tokenomics, and decentralized identity (AutheoID).
Advise on US and international regulations including SEC, CFTC, FinCEN (AML/KYC/OFAC), GDPR, and emerging crypto legislation.
Design licensing strategies (VASP, MSB, MTL) and regulatory engagement plans across key jurisdictions.
Corporate Governance & Contracts
Draft, review, and negotiate complex agreements for strategic partnerships, vendor contracts, equity/token allocations, and developer ecosystem programs.
Establish and maintain robust corporate governance structures supporting nearly 100+ equity cofounders and future growth.
Protect intellectual property for proprietary blockchain execution, FHE, zk-proofs, and AI integration technologies.
Risk Management & Legal Operations
Identify, assess, and mitigate legal and regulatory risks across product development, token launches, and enterprise integrations.
Oversee dispute resolution, litigation strategy (proactive and defensive), and insurance programs.
Collaborate with engineering, product, and business teams to embed legal-by-design principles into the platform.
Thought Leadership & Ecosystem Building
Represent Autheo in regulatory forums, industry associations, and policy discussions.
Contribute to whitepapers and publications on blockchain governance and legal frameworks.
Mentor the team on legal best practices and foster a culture of compliance excellence.