Joe Cerne takes a pragmatic approach to advising clients on corporate and transactional matters, including mergers and acquisitions, entity formation, corporate governance, and contract negotiations.
As an active member of the vibrant Portland startup community, Joe advises founders in Oregon and beyond, guiding them through every stage of the business lifecycle. Joe's engagement in the startup ecosystem ensures that founders receive strategic and pragmatic counsel on legal frameworks, governance, and compliance to achieve their business objectives.
Representative Experience
Representative Matters
- ZoomInfo $575M Acquisition of Chorus.ai
- KinderCare Education Acquisitions of Early Education Centers Across the U.S.
- Clario Medical Imaging Inc. Sale by Merger to Intelerad Medical Systems
Professional Highlights
Pro Bono Experience
Lewis & Clark Law School, Small Business Legal Clinic, Pro Bono Attorney, 2019-present
Professional Activities
Oregon State Bar, Business Law Section, Chair, 2025; Chair Elect, 2024; Treasurer, 2023; Executive Committee, 2022-Present; New Business Lawyers Subcommittee, Chair, 2021-2024
American Bar Association, Business Law Section
Lane County Legal Aid and Advocacy Center, Intake Coordinator, 2015-2018
Recognition & Accomplishments
Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, Corporate, 2022, 2025
Thomson Reuters, “Oregon Rising Star,” Business/Corporate, 2022-2024
Lewis & Clark Law School Small Business Legal Clinic, “Attorney of the Year,” 2021
Speaking Engagements
“Scaling Up? Important Lessons and Legal Insights for Your Startup's Growth,” Lane Powell, July 18 & August 1, 2024
“Navigating Entrepreneurship: Tales & Takeaways from Startup Attorneys,” Vancouver IRL, February 24, 2024
“Early Stage Planning for U.S.d-Based Businesses,” Hive Founders, September 6, 2023
“Startups & Emerging Companies Summer Series – Growing Your Business the Right Way,” Lane Powell, June 22, 2023
Board Memberships & Community Service
Enumclaw High School, football and track Coach, 2014-2015
Credentials
Education
University of Oregon School of Law (J.D. 2018)
Order of the Coif
Civil Procedure Tutor
University of Puget Sound (B.A. 2014)
Academic All-American
Phi Delta Theta
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, President
Admissions
Oregon
Washington