I think this situation would work out fine if it weren't for the unknown group members -- it seems likely that the OP and his friend with the lawyer dad are on

I think this situation would work out fine if it weren't for the unknown group members -- it seems likely that the OP and his friend with the lawyer dad are on good enough terms to make it work. I get the impression that the other group members don't really care about the project, because they aren't putting up the money to hire the OP. But if the project becomes successful, they could truthfully claim that they were involved with the project from the start. It doesn't sound like anyone wants to be overly legalistic; it sounds like someone's father is an aggressive lawyer type that saw an opportunity to negotiate the best possible terms. The OP and his partners need to draft some type of agreement. I don't think there is any need to involve lawyers immediately, wait until you incorporate. For now, just get something on paper you all agree with. Send it to friend's lawyer dad to legalize if you so desire. Get a free corporate registration and registered agent from him if you can. Only a Delaware C corp.