Why You Need a Business Manager, Accountant, and Attorney Before You Start Your Business

Build a solid foundation for your business by assembling the legal, financial, and strategic experts you need before you launch.

Starting a business is exciting—but jumping in without the right team can cost you big. Before your logo is finalized or your website goes live, three key professionals should be on your side: a business attorney, an accountant, and a business manager (or virtual CFO). Here's why they matter, who to hire first, and how to find them.

The Power Trio: What They Do

(Business Attorney)

Your attorney is your legal shield. They help you:

*Choose the right structure (LLC, S-Corp, etc.)

*Draft contracts for co-founders, employees, and clients

*Protect intellectual property (trademarks, copyrights)

*Avoid costly legal mistakes

Why it matters: The wrong legal setup or missing contract can lead to disputes, lawsuits, or lost rights down the road.

(Accountant or CPA)

Your accountant keeps your financial house in order. They:

*Set up your bookkeeping and tax systems

*Help you choose between cash or accrual accounting

*Prepare and file taxes properly

*Advise on deductions, payroll, and compliance

Why it matters: One mistake on a tax return or missed filing deadline can lead to audits or penalties.

(Business Manager or Virtual CFO)

As your business grows, a business manager or vCFO offers:

*Strategic financial planning and forecasting

*Budgeting and cash flow analysis

*Help with fundraising or scaling operations

Why it matters: Numbers don’t lie—but interpreting them wrong can stall your growth or sink your budget.

Who to Hire First?

If you’re just starting out, here’s the ideal order:

*Business Attorney – They’ll ensure you set up your company legally and avoid major risks from day one.

*Accountant – As soon as you're handling money, you need accurate records and tax planning.

*Business Manager – Bring one on when you're ready to grow, raise capital, or streamline operations.

How to Find the Right Professionals

Tips for Finding a Business Attorney:

*Ask fellow entrepreneurs or mentors for referrals.

*Use trusted platforms like UpCounsel or LegalMatch.

*Look for lawyers experienced with startups, not just general business law.

Tips for Finding an Accountant:

*Search your local chamber of commerce or state CPA society.

*Interview candidates about their experience with small businesses or your specific industry.

*Make sure they understand business tax strategy, not just bookkeeping.

Tips for Finding a Business Manager/vCFO:

*Ask your accountant or lawyer for referrals.

*Look for fractional CFOs who specialize in early-stage businesses.

*Prioritize someone who can grow with you—not just crunch numbers.

Entrepreneurship isn't a solo sport. The smartest founders build their support team before they make their first sale. A trusted attorney, accountant, and business manager don’t just protect your business—they help you make smarter decisions, grow faster, and sleep better at night.

Ready to start? Build your team first. Your future self (and your bank account) will thank you.