J. Dormer Stephen

Dormer provides sophisticated advice, delivered in a practical, business-oriented manner at every step in the corporate lifecycle. On behalf of Fortune 500 companies, private equity funds, emerging companies and investment banks, he regularly handles venture capital, private equity and debt transactions, including structuring, negotiating and documenting seed through later-stage investments, mezzanine financings and syndicated credit facilities. Dormer understands the value of collaboration in the life sciences, biotechnology and other information-intensive sectors and helps companies negotiate joint ventures, partnerships and major corporate matters such as buyouts, rollups, and intellectual property and licensing transactions. He also advises on workouts, financial restructurings and business-succession planning.

Dormer’s focus on high-quality, efficient service has fostered the development of long-term relationships with the companies he represents. He serves as formal and informal outside general counsel for many of his public and private clients, helping them identify resources and develop legal strategies on a range of business and legal issues long after a specific deal or transaction has closed. In this capacity, he has advised on strategic initiatives (such as joint development projects), commercial contracts (such as distribution, supply and employment agreements) and other general corporate matters (such as equity incentive plans, corporate governance, and employment, severance, real estate and insurance matters).

Dormer is actively involved in the Connecticut biotechnology community and serves as a member of the board of directors of BioCT, an organization dedicated to growing a vibrant bioscience ecosystem in the state. He is a venture advisor for ABCT, the Accelerator for Biosciences in CT, a program that helps research students, faculty, MBAs and MDs form new ventures in biosciences. Drawing on his work in the fintech and other sectors, he also advises insurance, media, software and telecommunications companies.

Prior to joining Shipman, Dormer was a partner in the Corporate Department of Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP.