Practice Areas

Corporate and Commercial Law, Corporate Governance, M&A, Commercial Litigation, Dispute Resolution, Labour and Employment, Corporate Compliance, Traffic Accident Dispute, Administrative Law

　

Introduction and Practice Profile

Yohei Ishihara is a partner at Yodoyabashi & Yamagami LPC in Tokyo. He advises clients on a wide range of business law matters, including corporate governance, M&A, disputes, labor and employment, compliance, commercial contracts, regulatory issues, sports and entertainment law, and, in particular, startup and emerging business matters. He is especially well known for his work in startup law, capital policy, fundraising, IPO readiness, stock options, platform business regulation and sharing economy-related issues.

Yohei has been one of the early lawyers in Japan to focus on legal issues surrounding startups and new business models. During his secondment to Spacemarket, Inc. he served not only as an in-house lawyer but also as a manager on the company's IPO preparation team, gaining first-hand experience of the challenges faced by fast-growing ventures. He was also closely involved in the launch of the Sharing Economy Association and in building dialogue with the Japanese government and relevant ministries from the ground up. That combination of practical business experience and policy engagement continues to shape his advice to founders, growth companies and innovative businesses.

In addition to his startup practice, Yohei has substantial experience in sports law and dispute resolution. He has served in various roles with the Japan Sports Arbitration Agency and has participated in multiple government and industry committees relating to platform regulation, data utilization, ODR, sports governance and compliance. He also teaches sports law as a part-time lecturer at Keio University Law School.

Yohei is also an active writer and speaker. His publications cover areas such as sports law, sharing economy regulation, ODR, subscription business models and legal practice management. Known for his openness, energy and practical approach, he works closely with clients to help them navigate legal uncertainty, support innovation and turn ambitious ideas into sustainable businesses.

Education

• Keio University (J.D., 2009)

Professional Admissions

• Japan (2011)

Languages

• Japanese
• English

Professional and Academic Associations

• Dai-ichi Tokyo Bar Association
• Arbitrator and Mediator, the Japan Sports Arbitration Agency