Andrew Toebben, VLP Law Group partner
Image: courtesy photo
Andrew Toebben, partner
VLP Law Group
Blending legal acumen with activism, Toebben impacts how businesses are run, and incidentally, who gets to run the country. His practice focuses on counseling high-tech startups, venture capitalists and other private companies. He has more than 100 company and investor-side financing transactions to his credit and has structured more than 40 emerging technology businesses. Additionally, he holds leadership positions within his firm and provides pro bono service for clients in the microfinance industry, among others. His influence, however, extends beyond the many businesses that he helps to launch and grow. In 2008, he served as the deputy director of voter protection in Virginia for then-Senator Barack Obama's Campaign for Change. That year Virginia turned blue — favoring Obama for president — for the first time since 1964.
What word best describes you?
Excited.
Toughest moment in law school or as a lawyer?
The few years I worked nearly 3,000 hours as a junior associate.
Favorite quote?
"I don't want to achieve immortality through my work. I want to achieve it through not dying." — Woody Allen.
Guilty pleasure?
College basketball.
Most unusual hobby you've ever had?
Collect funky pants.
What do you do for stress relief?
Dance.
A lawyer you admire and why.
Barack Obama. Humble origins. Never lost sight of his goals. Tries to find consensus in a nonpolarizing manner.
How many hours a week do you work?
40.
Trial or deal you wish you could have worked on.
The Google IPO. It's what I hope for with all my clients.
