Sean Patrick Steinman
Principal Attorney
Education​
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Newcomb-Tulane College, B.A., 2011
Tulane Law School, J.D., 2015​​​
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Bar Admission
Louisiana, Admitted 2015
E.D. Louisiana, Admitted 2019
I’m a commercial attorney with over a decade of experience advising clients across the globe on high-stakes business transactions, complex contracts, and select civil litigation matters. I’ve negotiated deals in more than 30 countries across five continents—ranging from small acquisitions and divestitures to deals with over $1 billion in value.
My practice is primarily focused on corporate and commercial transactions, from business formation and governance, to a wide variety of domestic and international contracts, and mergers, acquisitions, and dissolutions. I regularly draft and negotiate agreements involving sales or purchases of goods and services in U.S. and international markets.
My clients span a broad range of industries—including technology and software, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, logistics, professional services, healthcare, consumer products, aerospace and defense, and non-profits. Whether I’m representing a venture-backed startup, a multinational logistics firm, or a solo creator licensing their content, I tailor my approach to each client’s goals, risk tolerance, and business model.
In addition to my transactional work, I represent individual and business plaintiffs in select civil litigation matters involving fraud and misrepresentation, unfair trade practices, contract disputes, and anti-competitive business practices, among other causes of action, in state and federal courts. I am a meticulous problem solver, adept business partner, and passionate advocate, bringing a commercial mindset and strategic focus to every client relationship.
I earned my undergraduate degree from Newcomb-Tulane College and my J.D. from Tulane Law School. I’m based in New Orleans and licensed to practice in Louisiana.
Services
Business Transactions & Commercial Contracts
I advise startups, growth-stage companies, and global enterprises on structuring, drafting, and negotiating commercial contracts. Whether you’re securing mission-critical software licenses, structuring service agreements, or navigating vendor and distribution deals, I focus on protecting your interests while driving business value.
International & Cross-Border Legal Issues
Cross-border transactions come with unique legal challenges. I help clients manage risk and ensure compliance with international, U.S., and foreign laws—including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), export controls, and data privacy regulations. I assist with structuring international distribution agreements, resolving payment and shipping issues, and managing global commercial relationships.
Entertainment, Copyright, & Trademarks
I work with creators, producers, and companies in the entertainment and media industries to protect their intellectual property and negotiate talent, licensing, and content agreements. From copyright registration and enforcement to negotiating option and production agreements, I help clients safeguard their creative work and brand identity.
Plaintiff-Side Litigation
I represent individuals and businesses in civil litigation involving fraud, unfair trade practices, personal injury, contractor disputes, and business torts. I focus on high-stakes, complex cases that require deep factual investigation, articulate advocacy, and precise legal analysis. I bring a commercial litigator’s lens to every case, ensuring that damages, risk, and leverage are front and center.
Contract Review & Risk Assessment
Signing a contract without a full understanding of its implications can be costly. I review agreements with a focus on identifying financial, legal, and operational risks. I explain key terms in plain language and suggest revisions that align with your goals and protect your downside.
Negotiation Strategy & Support
Effective negotiation is more than just pushing back on terms—it’s about understanding leverage, trade-offs, and what truly matters to both sides. I help clients define their priorities, prepare fallback positions, and negotiate confidently, whether the counterparty is a Fortune 100 corporation or a small business.
Industries Supported
Technology & Software
SaaS, enterprise IT, cloud services, and infrastructure providers
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
early-stage and growth-stage companies building AI-native tools and platforms
Distribution & Logistics
global freight forwarders, warehouse operators, and supply chain managers
Professional &
Consulting Services
advisory firms, marketing agencies, and design studios
Aerospace & Defense
contractors, manufacturers, and service providers in highly regulated markets
Educational Services
edtech platforms, training vendors, and continuing education organizations
Cybersecurity &
Data Privacy
service providers, consultants, and enterprise clients facing evolving compliance demands
Entertainment & Media
artists, producers, creators, and platforms managing IP, content, and production deals
Industrial & Consumer Manufacturers
makers of specialized components, consumer goods, and B2B products
Testimonials
"Sean is detail oriented and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend him for your legal needs."
— Vanessa F.
"Through about half a decade and different types of work including contracts, legal and USPTO matters, Sean completed excellent work. He has a skill that is difficult to attain: being both detail oriented and also comprehending the big picture simultaneously. Throughout this time I have, and will continue, to trust Sean with the most delicate and meaningful projects I need completing."
"Sean excels at getting to the heart of a problem and offering quick solutions. He's strategic and meticulous, so he can explain how the details in a contract can affect the bottom line of the business."
— Kimberly M.
— Andreas P.
