As a member of Gould & Ratner’s corporate practice, Sevan Avakian counsels privately held and family-run entrepreneurial businesses in a variety of complex transactional and corporate governance matters, including mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, private equity and venture capital financings, corporate formations and reorganizations, and debt financing transactions. Sevan has proven to be an indispensable resource for many notable companies, guiding his clients in a full range of legal matters throughout their life cycle.
Additionally, Sevan represents venture capital firms, angel investors, and investment syndicates with legal matters ranging from fund formation to investment review and negotiation. Sevan brings unique invaluable experience stemming from his tenure as General Counsel of Protagonist, a venture capital firm focused on emerging technologies, where he oversaw legal and operations. Moreover, Sevan is a co-founder of his own venture capital firm, Jordan Avakian Group.
Sevan’s experience and clients span a variety of industries, including: blockchain technologies; high-tech manufacturing; transportation; automotive sales and distribution; emerging technologies; consulting and professional services; software design and development; digital marketing and strategy; consumer packaged goods; banking and financial services; and sports and entertainment. Entrenched in the business community, Sevan makes it a priority to introduce his clients to centers of influence within their respective industry.
Sevan has been included in U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Ones to Watch” list in the category of corporate law from 2021 - 2023, and has also been recognized as a Rising Star in corporate law by Super Lawyers. During his time at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, Sevan served as president of Loyola’s Business Law Society. He was also the regional champion and national quarterfinalist in the 2014 Thomas Tang National Moot Court Competition.
Sevan is involved in a variety of community, charity and professional organizations, including the Assyrian American Bar Association, the Assyrian American Chamber of Commerce, and Assyrian Advisors, which he serves as the legal director. Sevan also coached Loyola University Chicago School of Law’s Thomas Tang National Moot Court Team, which won national championships in 2017 and 2018 during Sevan’s tenure.
