Startup Grind - Built to Last: What Founders Should Expect from Lawyers and Accountants
Behind every thriving startup is a team of trusted advisors. But how do you know if your legal and financial professionals are truly supporting your growth — or just billing hours?
Join us for a candid panel discussion moderated by Tarek Kandalaft, COO of Dockware, who knows firsthand what it’s like to evaluate advisors while scaling a company.
Our panel features seasoned professionals who specialize in working with startups and small businesses:
Steve Brooks — Founding Partner, Eldridge Brooks Partners
Corporate attorney with deep experience in capital raises, M&A, and guiding entrepreneurs at every stage.Jake Butts — Partner, Kingsley Hird
Startup-focused attorney who helps founders navigate formation, contracts, and scaling with clarity and confidence.Aaron Ackerman — Partner, HoganTaylor
CPA, CGMA, and leader of HoganTaylor’s Client Accounting & Advisory Services, advising businesses with financial strategy, KPIs, and growth planning.
Together, they’ll unpack what great professional support actually looks like, how to set clear expectations from day one, and what red flags to watch for in your service relationships.
Whether you’re launching your first venture or scaling to your next round, this session will help you understand how to build long-term, productive partnerships with the experts who protect and guide your business.
Key Takeaways:
What questions to ask before hiring a lawyer or accountant
How to align services with business stage and budget
What transparency and responsiveness should look like
How to manage scope, fees, and ongoing communication
When it’s time to reevaluate your advisory team
Come ready to learn, ask questions, and leave with actionable insight to strengthen your startup’s foundation.