Welcome to CRADA Law
Legal Expertise for Innovation & Collaboration

Sarah Hestad is an independent contract attorney specializing in crafting Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs) that bridge the gap between federal laboratories, universities, and private innovators.

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What is a CRADA?

Understanding the framework for federal-private collaboration.

A Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) is a formal agreement that allows U.S. government laboratories to collaborate with non-federal entities—including private companies, universities, and nonprofits. CRADAs are used to speed up innovation, share resources, and protect intellectual property while preserving public benefit.

Unlike standard procurement contracts, CRADAs are not about buying services—they’re about building partnerships. They offer a flexible and efficient way to integrate cutting-edge research with real-world applications.

Whether you're a startup seeking lab resources, a university commercializing a discovery, or a government lab needing industry expertise, Sarah Hestad can help craft a CRADA that protects your interests while facilitating progress.

Why Work With Sarah?

Practical. Personable. Precise.

Independent & Focused

Sarah Hestad isn’t part of a big firm—she’s your direct point of contact. That means responsive service, tailored contracts, and no runaround.

Experienced in CRADAs

With a deep understanding of Cooperative Research and Development Agreements, Sarah helps clients avoid pitfalls and protect their long-term interests.

Clear, Efficient Communication

Legal work doesn’t need to be intimidating. Sarah explains complex contract language in plain English, so you always know where things stand.

Mission-Aligned Legal Support

Whether you’re part of a research lab, a university, or a startup, Sarah adapts to your organization’s goals while ensuring legal compliance and risk mitigation.

Legal Services

Practical legal support for public-private innovation.

CRADA Drafting & Review

Custom Cooperative Research and Development Agreements tailored to your collaboration goals, IP concerns, and legal requirements.

Intellectual Property Agreements

NDAs, licensing terms, and IP ownership clauses that protect your innovations and set the foundation for commercialization.

Contract Consulting

Legal insight for partnerships, subawards, MOUs, or research agreements involving federal or academic institutions.

Federal Contract Guidance

Support for navigating FAR compliance and other government-specific legal frameworks in research and development agreements.

General Contract Law

Drafting and review of services contracts, consulting agreements, and terms of engagement for professionals and businesses.

Contact

Ready to discuss your project or get legal advice? Reach out below.