Ryan David Shaening Pokrasso

I am the CEO of an early-stage startup that went through the process of establishing a corporation and raising venture capital money over the past several months. Ryan was strategic, responsive, and diligent throughout the process. I do not think there is a better option for new startups navigating t...he legal imperatives of launching a company. I have worked with some of the large law firms, and Ryan is better for startups - he has a great understanding of what companies need to do in the formation process and the intricacies of VC funding strategies. He gives great legal counsel, as well as strategic advice from his experience working with many startups. I cannot recommend him highly enough!

I came to Ryan and Hash with a slew of legal advice needed, such as: forming a partnership, legal protection against a 3rd party, intellectual property, etc. They found the most appropriate way to render services needed in the most effective, cost-efficient manner. They are very honest and fourth-com...ing....legal partners you can truly trust! I give my highest recommendation.

Ryan Pokrasso and his law firm, Elevate, is helping my partner form a non-profit to bring mental health to trauma victims worldwide. He spoke highly of Ryan Pokrasso so I accompanied him on one of his lawyer visits. I was immediately impressed with Team Elevate's generosity, knowledge of the non-p...rofit sector, and immediate grasp of complex issues. Directly thereafter I retained Elevate for myself in constructing / negotiating a favorable retirement package from a global non-profit for which I had been a long-time executive. My matter was fairly complex and Ryan Pokrasso advised that although I worked for a European non-profit, California law would provide the best separation package for me. Ryan guided me in both the tone and the content of my correspondence and conversations and provided wise counsel regarding memorializing the separation process, which turned out to be key to our ultimate success. His strategy was fair and thoughtful. Ultimately both my company and I arrived at an equitable solution, for which I credit Ryan's good lawyering, specifically his knowledge of California law, understanding of the inner workings of non-profits, and his non-adversarial approach. Ryan continues to help my partner on formation of his company, and he did a fine job in helping me separate from my company.

I recently came to Ryan for help when a client breeched a contract. I really appreciate his ability to communicate in a way that is both straight forward and legally sound. I also noticed early on the respectful and tactful way that he communicated with my client's attorney. This resulted in an favor...able and quick settlement. The opposing attorney was surprisingly helpful, largely due to Ryan staying on top of the case with follow ups and settlement executions, etc. I really appreciate their help, and our business has come back to Elevate for help writing and responding to contracts as well as various legal advice. We are a small startup that is growing quickly and I feel good knowing that they are on our team. I recommend Elevate to anyone needing legal and strategic services for their business.