[rpwilcox]

Unless you were underage when you took the contract (or someone pointed a literal gun to your head) you were fully capable, should have known the the risks of the position when you started.

You took a gamble on a startup and you lost. You're not a unique or special snowflake in this regard. Brush yourself off, maybe take a paying position to build back your reserves, and maybe attack the next gamble with some more wisdom.

[rayiner]

At least under California law, his legal rights may extend beyond just "brush yourself off." It is incredibly shmucky for him to not find out what he is entitled to.