Matthew Golden
Intellectual Property and Commercial Agreements Lawyer
New York
NY
About
My work combines the precision of an IP lawyer, the deal instincts of a business partner, and the adaptability of an in-house counsel who can step in and deliver results quickly.
I’m particularly effective in roles where legal complexity meets business urgency — high-value… read more licensing deals, time-sensitive SaaS/vendor contracts, cross-border collaborations, or M&A transactions where IP is the critical asset.
experience
Practice Areas
Client Reviews
"Working with Matthew is always a pleasure. He is not only an expert in IP, licensing and commercial contracts, but also responsive, approachable, and highly skilled at breaking down complex legal issues into clear, practical terms for me and my small business clients. When needs extend his expertise, he provides guidance where he can and seamlessly brings in trusted experts to ensure comprehensive support. Mari Lazar, owner A to Z Consulting LLC"
"I highly recommend Matthew Golden for legal services. I consulted with Matthew regarding a licensing opportunity between my small business and a large youth sports organization. He provided clear guidance, identified key issues quickly, and delivered a well-drafted services agreement with impressive speed. He was responsive and professional throughout."
Work History
M. J. Golden Law
Founder, Principal
Jan 2025 - Present
Outside general counsel to technology, life sciences, and growth-stage companies. Draft and negotiate SaaS, software, data rights, research and development, and IP licensing agreements. Manage IP portfolios, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.
Nelson Mullins
Of Counsel
Sep 2022 - Dec 2024
Advised on technology and life sciences commercial contracts, IP strategy in M&A and venture financing, and cross-border licensing.
Other
External Legal Advisor
Nov 2021 - Aug 2022
Interim legal counsel to technology companies including Apple (technology transactions for Apple Maps), Regeneron (preclinical R&D contracts), Upside Foods (biotech IP and transactions), and Cana Technologies (general counsel for manufacturing and research partnerships).
Mars, Inc.
Assistant General Counsel – IP
May 2018 - Oct 2021
Built IP strategy for R&D platforms in health, nutrition, sustainability, and food safety. Led commercial agreements for AI-driven discovery, biotechnology, and joint ventures.
Mondelez International
Chief Counsel, Global Patents
Sep 2012 - Nov 2017
Directed patent, trade secret, and technology transaction functions. Managed a large global team and implemented portfolio valuation tools to optimize IP spend.
Merck
Legal Director, Patents
Feb 2005 - Aug 2012
Guided IP lifecycle management for consumer healthcare brands, focusing on licensing, portfolio growth, and risk management.