Whit Bissell

Whit Bissell is a seasoned corporate lawyer focused on emerging companies and venture capital (ECVC). He advises high-growth technology and life sciences businesses—as well as the investors who back them—on both critical and routine transactions. Known for practical, business-minded counsel, Whit helps executives make high-stakes decisions and works closely with founders to think strategically about building and scaling the companies their passion inspired.

On the company side, Whit represents clients throughout the business life cycle, from formation through exit. He structures and negotiates entity formation and capital raises—including SAFEs, convertible notes, and preferred equity—and guides founders through strategic and M&A transactions involving complex structuring and bet-the-company stakes. He also supports day-to-day corporate needs, including governance and securities law compliance, commercial agreements, employment and consulting arrangements, intellectual property assignments, equity compensation, and fiduciary duties.

On the investor side, Whit represents venture capital funds and high-net-worth individuals in investments across innovation-driven industries.

Before joining VLP in 2011, Whit practiced for many years at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, where he represented startups and venture funds in equity and debt financings and advised on corporate governance.

Whit is a graduate of Middlebury College and UCLA Law School. A former alpine ski racer and (probably retired) avid skydiver, he still chases the flow state of speed on the slopes. He is a connoisseur of peak experiences and subcultures and finds energy in music and dance. His interests also extend to photography, aesthetics, and the evolution of cultural norms. He finds recharge in nature whenever he can.

Whit lives in San Francisco with his wife, Sara, and their two photogenic cats.