Leandro Vivarelli Molina has been practicing law for more than 20 years. He is a partner in the firm’s highly regarded Emerging Companies practice and represents start-ups, emerging companies and investors in financing rounds, M&As and corporate matters in the U.S. in all tech sectors, with special focus on fintech. In addition to specializing in startups and emerging companies work, he is the co-head of the Latin America practice group. He is originally from Brazil, the only Portuguese country in Latin America. Leandro is dual-qualified in the USA and Brazil (New York and São Paulo) and licensed as a Foreign Legal Consultant in Florida.

Where I am from:

I am originally from Brazil and first came to the U.S. to visit for two weeks with my father and my brother when I was 14 years old. Since then, I came back to the U.S. for part of high school and later to attend some programs in law schools here after initially graduating from law school in Brazil. I have also completed LL.M. and JD degrees in the U.S.

I am thankful to my family, my team, staff and other people I have worked with along this journey to get where I am today.

What unique perspectives or insights do you bring to your practice area of venture capital?

I am grateful for having had the opportunity to practice law abroad and in the U.S. which helped me to look at businesses and clients from different perspectives. My background allows me to understand and appreciate the diverse cultural nuances that may influence entrepreneurial ventures. This awareness helps me to communicate more effectively with clients and stakeholders from many different backgrounds, fostering trust and stronger relationships.

As a Latino lawyer practicing in the venture capital space, I bring a unique blend of perspectives rooted in both cultural diversity and varied legal expertise. My heritage has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of community and collaboration, traits that are invaluable in an industry where relationships are key. Moreover, my experience studying and working in a common law jurisdiction like the U.S. and a civil law jurisdiction such as Brazil has enriched my understanding of different legal frameworks and business environments. My background and this dual exposure allow me to navigate cross-border transactions with ease and offer innovative solutions that cater to diverse market needs. By combining these multicultural and multidisciplinary insights, I am also able to identify opportunities that others might overlook, as well as to approach negotiations and deal-making with an understanding of diverse market needs and behaviors. This multicultural lens enriches my practice and benefits our clients.

How do you approach the differences in business culture between the U.S. and Latin America when advising your clients, and what advice do you give to bridge these cultural gaps?

Clients always require special attention and I believe client service is key for a successful practice.

With years of practice bridging U.S. and Latin American business cultures, I’ve learned to embrace and celebrate these differences. With certain variations, the U.S. typically values directness and efficiency, while Latin American business culture often emphasizes personal relationships and trust. When advising our clients, I focus on recognizing these cultural nuances and finding harmony between them.

My main advice is to blend the best of both worlds: cultivate genuine relationships where trust and mutual understanding are foundational, but also maintain clarity and precision in communication and agreements.

How do you believe your cultural background has shaped your approach to practicing law?

My cultural background has deeply influenced my approach to practicing law by embedding a strong sense of community and adaptability. Growing up in a Latino family, I learned the importance of building meaningful relationships and understanding diverse perspectives, which are crucial in legal practice. This background encourages me to approach each case or project with empathy and open-mindedness, aiming to connect with clients on a personal level. Additionally, my experiences have taught me to be resourceful and resilient, qualities that help me navigate complex legal landscapes and advocate effectively for my clients. At 42, these cultural lessons continue to guide my dedication to the legal practice and commitment to providing insightful and compassionate legal counsel to our clients.

What message would you like to share with fellow Hispanic lawyers, Latino lawyers, and aspiring legal professionals during Hispanic Heritage Month, especially those who may be inspired by your accomplishments and contributions to the legal field?

My parents were a great source of inspiration throughout my academic and professional journey, teaching me discipline, dedication, and resilience—values that have been instrumental in my career.

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I encourage fellow Hispanic and Latino lawyers, as well as aspiring legal professionals, to embrace the strength and richness of our diverse backgrounds. Your heritage is not only a source of pride but also a unique asset that brings valuable perspectives to our profession. Never underestimate the impact you can make by remaining true to your roots while navigating the legal landscape. I have learned that our cultural backgrounds offer unique perspectives that enrich the legal field. Build supportive networks, support one another, seek out mentors, and persist in the face of challenges. Remember that each of us carries the potential to create meaningful change, not only within the legal field but also in our communities. Celebrate your journey, contribute boldly, stay committed and continue to pave the way for future generations.