Benjamin Straughan

Ben Straughan is a partner in the firm's Emerging Companies practice. He assists high-growth technology, venture-backed, and emerging and early-stage companies in industries that include health care, software, alternative energy, consulting companies, media outlets and wine. Ben advises companies in mergers and acquisitions, venture capital and other finance transactions, contracts, and corporate and limited liability company formation and structuring.

Ben is a regular speaker on mergers and acquisitions, emerging companies and early-stage financings. He also currently serves as Chair of the board of directors of the Northwest Entrepreneur Network (NWEN), as a member of the Executive Committee and the Partnership/LLC Committee of the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) Business Law Section, and chair of the WSBA Business Law Section 2009 Mid-year meeting.

Prior to joining the firm, Ben was an associate at the law firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom in Washington, D.C. Prior to law school, he obtained his CPA license while working as a staff accountant at Martin/Grambush in Kirkland. Ben graduated from Georgetown University Law Center magna cum laude and Order of the Coif, and obtained his undergraduate degree in accounting at the University of Washington.

Professional Recognition

• Peer Review Rated AV in Martindale-Hubbell

Professional Leadership

• Washington State Bar Association (WSBA), Executive Committee of the Business Law Section, Chair, 2009 Mid-Year Meeting; Secretary, 2007 - 2008
• WSBA, Partnership/LLC Law Committee of the Business Law Section, Member

Community Involvement

• Northwest Entrepreneur Network (NWEN), Chair of the Board, 2008 - present; Vice-Chair of the Board, 2007 - 2008; Co-Chair, Entrepreneur University Steering Committee, 2006
• The IndUS Entrepreneurs (TiE) Seattle, Board of Advisors, 2006 - 2007

Related Employment

• Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, Washington D.C., Associate, 1990 - 1992
• Martin/Grambush, Kirkland, WA, Staff Accountant, 1985 - 1986