Name
Coeptus is derived from “annuit coeptis” on the dollar bill, which translates to “[providence] favors our new undertakings.” It represents our clients’ entrepreneurial spirit. That success is earned by those who take the first step to start something.
Motto
Pursue Better recognizes that long term success means loving the process. Appreciating that our work is never done. Opportunities to improve – to pursue better – surround us always.
Our Team
Brian Dirkmaat
Attorney | Founding Shareholder
Brian is an attorney and founding shareholder at Coeptus. He provides general counsel and transactional representation, with a particular focus on startup financing, mergers & acquisitions, and corporate transactions.
Brian’s commitment to providing useful legal guidance is grounded in his desire to establish long-term relationships with clients. His empathy for clients when they face business opportunities or problems forges those relationships and empowers them to make educated decisions. He understands that his work requires striking a balance between legal realities and business practicalities, while communicating complex concepts in simple terms.
Education
- Brigham Young University
- University of San Diego School of Law
Curiosities
- Often embarks on adventures with his wife, four children, and six grandchildren
- Enjoys surfing, skating bowls, backpacking, and trying to perfect his squat
- Tries to play the guitar; others prefer he do so privately
- Has studied eight languages (most of them dead) and speaks French fluently after having lived in France and Belgium for two years
- Loves single-origin dark chocolate
Contact
7750 El Camino Real, Suite 2C
Carlsbad, CA 92009
+1 760 283 0011
brian@coeptuslaw.com
Tara Pelan
Attorney | Founding Shareholder
Tara is an attorney and founding shareholder at Coeptus. She provides general counsel and transactional representation, with a particular focus on corporate transactions, brand protection, and commercial agreements.
Tara’s interest in what drives people has shaped her resolve to support entrepreneurs and investors in building high performing organizations. She believes attorneys can improve their effectiveness by looking outside traditional law firm models for inspiration. She favors an interdisciplinary and holistic approach to law and values creative and thoughtful design for problem solving.
Education
- University of California at Santa Barbara
- California Western School of Law
Curiosities
- Is a native San Diegan
- Holds three passports
- Has travelled to 25 countries and counting
- Stays fit by hitting the trails, often with her husband and Australian shepherd
- Thinks perfect moments are those with good food, drink, company, and scenery
Contact
7750 El Camino Real, Suite 2C
Carlsbad, CA 92009
+1 760 283 0012
tara@coeptuslaw.com