Karli Sager| Senior Attorney

Karli is a practical and business-minded attorney, which fits well with goodcounsel’s approach to client service. She has a breadth of experience, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, in the technology, financial, and food industries. Her strengths include intellectual property, complex contract negotiations, data protection, and cybersecurity compliance. After graduating from Stanford Law School, she worked at Latham & Watkins before transitioning to boutique firms and an in-house legal role at HP.

Big Picture

• Latham & Watkins, BraunHagey & Borden, HP

• Stanford Law School, University of Wisconsin, Pennsylvania State University

• Skiing and cooking

Key Metrics

• Legal superpower:  Understanding the business purpose

• Secret talent: Playing in the cup in ultimate frisbee

• Favorite TV show of all time: The Wire

A conversation with Karli

What do you like to do when you aren’t practicing law?

I grew up loving the mountains, and skiing remains one of my favorite ways to spend time outside. I’ve also developed a passion for fermentation and seasonal cooking, like roasting Early Girl Tomatoes and preserving Meyer lemons. I also love playing board games with my family. Catan and Wingspan are house favorites.

What brought you to goodcounsel?

I wanted to join a team that values solving problems and serving entrepreneurs. My own journey as both a lawyer and a business owner has shown me how much clients benefit from counsel who understand strategy, growth, and risk from multiple angles. goodcounsel’s collaborative approach was a perfect fit for me.

What’s your professional background?

I started my career at Latham & Watkins, then practiced at boutique firms and in-house legal departments, including HP. My work spans startups to Fortune 500 companies in industries from technology to finance to food.  My focus areas include intellectual property and complex commercial contracts.

What else should we know about you?

Alongside my legal practice, I own and operate a specialty snack company, which gives me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities entrepreneurs face. It is not easy! I am always innovating and asking myself how to move things forward.  I approach my legal work with the same curiosity and practical mindset that I use as an entrepreneur.

Interview by Patty Chang Anker.