---
title: True West | Frequently Asked Questions
description: Discover how our personalized compliance consulting services can help your firm stay compliant, avoid legal penalties, and maintain trust with clients.
image: https://www.truewest-consulting.com/hubfs/TW-FAQ.jpg
---
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- Compliance
- [RIA Compliance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/ria-compliance)
- [Private Fund Compliance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/private-fund-compliance)
- [IT Operations & Governance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/it-operations-and-governance)
- [Finance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/finance)
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- [About](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/about)
- [Technology](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/technology)
- [Services](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services)
- Compliance
- [RIA Compliance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/ria-compliance)
- [Private Fund Compliance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/private-fund-compliance)
- [IT Operations & Governance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/it-operations-and-governance)
- [Finance](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/services/finance)
- [News & Insights](https://blog.truewest-consulting.com/news-insights)
- [Contact](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/contact)
[Tech Portal Login](https://truewest.greenboard.com/)[Schedule a Call](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/schedule-a-call?hsLang=en)
# Frequently Asked Questions
### How long does it take to set up a RIA?
The process of setting up a RIA can take approximately 8 weeks, though this timeline can vary depending on state-specific requirements. Here is a sample timeline outlining the steps involved:
1. **Week 1**: Discuss firm details, conflicts, services, fees, and other components of ADV Part 2A.
2. **Week 2**: Initial review call with the RIA, obtain IARD entitlements, and draft ADV documents. The firm should fund registration fees (state and IARs).
3. **Week 3**: Address questions and clarify ADV Part 2A language and Part 1 information with the RIA after the initial review.
4. **Weeks 3-8**: Finalize documents with the firm, host weekly calls on compliance manual tailoring, risk analysis, calendar tasks, and resource library.
5. **Week 4**: File SEC/States application on IARD. SEC registration approval typically takes about 30 days, while state approvals can vary from 4 to 8 weeks.
6. **Week 8 and beyond**: Approval of the RIA and onboarding of clients.
This timeline provides a general framework for the RIA registration process, but actual durations may vary.
### What services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive compliance consulting services including regulatory filings, policy development, compliance audits, and training programs.
### Who can benefit from your services?
Our services are ideal for Independent Registered Investment Advisors or those looking for assistance in going independent and are seeking to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and outsource operational services.
### What is your approach to compliance consulting?
We take a personalized approach, working closely with your team to develop tailored compliance solutions that fit your specific needs and regulatory environment.
### How do you handle regulatory updates?
We stay current with all regulatory changes and provide regular updates and guidance to ensure your firm remains compliant with new regulations.
### Why don't you offer OCCO (Outsourced Chief Compliance Officer) services?
We believe that having an in-house compliance officer who knows the ins and outs of your company is crucial. The SEC believes that active engagement in your compliance program is essential in any firm. True West does offer outsourced operational compliance support for completing compliance tasks such as email and trade blotter review.
### How can I get started with your services?
You can contact us via our website, email, or phone to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll discuss your needs and how we can help.
### What makes your consulting firm different from others?
Our personalized approach, industry expertise, and commitment to client success set us apart. We work as an extension of your team, ensuring seamless compliance management.
### Do you provide training for our staff?
Yes, we offer comprehensive compliance training programs tailored to your firm’s specific needs and regulatory requirements.
### How often should my company review its compliance policies?
It’s recommended to review and update your compliance policies annually, or whenever there are significant regulatory changes or updates in your business operations.
### What is the cost of your compliance consulting services?
Our pricing is tailored to the scope and scale of your needs. Contact us for a detailed quote based on your specific requirements.
### Why is compliance important?
Compliance is crucial to avoid legal penalties, safeguard your company’s reputation, and ensure operational efficiency. It helps maintain trust with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.
### How do companies ensure compliance?
Companies ensure compliance by developing and implementing policies and procedures, conducting regular audits, training employees, and staying updated with regulatory changes.
### What are the key components of a compliance program?
Key components include a written code of conduct, policies and procedures, training and education, monitoring and auditing, enforcement and discipline, and response and prevention.
#### True West
True West is your partner in all operational activities, allowing you to focus on your relationships and manage your clients' portfolios.
- [About](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/about?hsLang=en)
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- [Contact](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/contact?hsLang=en)
- [Schedule a Call](https://www.truewest-consulting.com/schedule-a-call?hsLang=en)
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## Nancy Harry
Founder
Nancy is a founding Member at True West. She brings over 20 years of experience in the financial industry with a concentrated focus in regulatory compliance consulting for registered investment advisory firms. She has a passion for working with clients in developing their compliance programs and assists firms with building a true culture of compliance. Nancy strives to keep a simple and straightforward approach to running an efficient compliance program.
[mailto:nancy.harry@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:nancy.harry@truewest-consulting.com)
## Kari Thiessen
Founder
Kari is a founding Member at True West. She brings nearly 30 years of experience in the financial services industry with a history in regulatory tax compliance, tax planning, economics and supply chain consulting. Kari takes pride in developing practical and innovative solutions for clients. Kari brings a broad and deep set of skills for any business, corporate or single person shop.
[mailto:kari.thiessen@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:kari.thiessen@truewest-consulting.com)
## Sigrid Alegria
Associate
Sigrid is an Associate at True West Consulting, bringing with her nearly a decade of experience in the legal and compliance sectors. Her background includes roles as an in-house compliance associate, as well as experience with prominent firms such as Goldman Sachs & Co. Sigrid has developed a strong expertise in regulatory compliance, with a particular focus on evolving Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) regulations. At True West, she leverages her comprehensive knowledge to provide operational support to a diverse range of clients, helping them navigate complex compliance challenges and stay ahead of regulatory changes."
[mailto:Trish.Gallagher@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:Trish.Gallagher@truewest-consulting.com)
## Caroline Iannucci
Associate
Caroline is a Compliance Associate at True West. Caroline brings with her 10 years of Wall Street experience and broad based knowledge of the financial markets. As an institutional equity salesperson, she covered both hedge funds and mutual funds, specializing in public equities and private stock offerings.
[mailto:caroline.iannucci@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:caroline.iannucci@truewest-consulting.com)
## Carliss Marshall
Associate
Carliss is a Compliance Associate at True West Consulting with six plus years of compliance experience. She has worked both as a member of an in-house compliance team and as a compliance consultant responsible for multiple clients. Carliss has experience in a variety of compliance focus areas, with extensive experience in regulatory filings. She has worked with both registered and unregistered investment advisory firms, ensuring all aspects of their compliance programs run smoothly and all regulatory requirements are met.
[mailto:carliss.marshall@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:carliss.marshall@truewest-consulting.com)
## Sara Sparks
Consultant
Sara is a seasoned Compliance Consultant at True West specializing in registered investment advisory firms. She offers guidance and best practices on constantly changing securities division regulations and ensures firms are prepared for regulatory examinations. Sara has experience with newly registered firms and well-established firms. She assists firms with developing and maintaining a robust compliance program through guidance of policies and procedures, risk assessments, and performing day-to-day compliance duties.
[mailto:sara.sparks@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:sara.sparks@truewest-consulting.com)
## Tammy Steffen
Associate
As a Compliance Consultant/Associate with True West Consulting, Tammy brings 39 years of experience throughout the financial services industry. With extensive experience in compliance procedures and policies, operations, and supervision, Tammy has worked with Broker-Dealer, and Registered Advisory firms to bolster and enhance their operations and compliance programs.
[mailto:tammy.steffen@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:tammy.steffen@truewest-consulting.com)
## Hugh Simpson
Consultant
Hugh Simpson is a skilled professional in the financial services industry, with a deep background in the areas of legal, compliance, internal audit, enterprise risk management, corporate governance and government relations. He recently completed a 33-year stint as Executive Vice President – General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of two significant Fort Worth-based financial services companies. Prior to that he was a partner in the Corporate and Securities Section of one of the oldest and largest law firms in Fort Worth. Hugh now consults on a variety of issues in the financial services space. He takes a sensible, solutions-oriented approach to risk management, promotes effective corporate governance, and upholds high ethical standards.
[mailto:contact@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:contact@truewest-consulting.com)
## Aaron Payne
Consultant
**Aaron Payne** is an IT Infrastructure and Cybersecurity specialist with deep experience leading technology transformation efforts within the financial services sector. In recent years, he has helped RIAs and FMOs modernize disjointed and outdated IT environments - bringing them into alignment with regulatory expectations and operational best practices. His work focuses on building secure, well-governed systems that support business growth, reduce risk, and hold up under regulatory and audit scrutiny.
[mailto:deshaunne.kurulak@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:deshaunne.kurulak@truewest-consulting.com)
## David Lewien
CEO - Go West IT
David Lewien is the founder and CEO of Go West IT in Greenwood Village, Colorado. Founded in 2010, Go West IT is the security obsessed Managed Service Provider that expertly guides businesses to opportunity and protects them from harm in the digital frontier.
[mailto:david.lewein@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:david.lewein@truewest-consulting.com)
## Mark Brown
Founder - Advisor Armor
Mark Brown is the founder of Advisor Armor
[mailto:deshaunne.kurulak@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:deshaunne.kurulak@truewest-consulting.com)
## Bridget Katz
Project Manager and Onboarding Associate
As a Project Manager and Onboarding Associate with True West, Bridget brings over 20 years of extensive experience in the financial industry, specializing in serving large RIAs and their high-net-worth clients. In addition to serving RIAs, she led the onboarding advisor experience for a TAMP, demonstrating her expertise in streamlining client and advisor onboarding processes. Passionate about delivering end-to-end onboarding solutions, Bridget has successfully managed onboarding for multiple RIAs, supporting hundreds of users by ensuring seamless system access, compliance, and comprehensive training. Additionally, she has overseen client service operations, optimized systems, and aligned departmental efforts to ensure every client interaction reflects the highest standards of service.
[mailto:bridget.katz@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:bridget.katz@truewest-consulting.com)
## Anna Burdine
Associate
Anna is a Compliance Associate at True West Consulting with five years of compliance experience. She is an accomplished financial services professional with a strong background in compliance, supervision, and advisor support on the broker dealer side of business. Prior to her current role, she worked at LPL Financial as a supervisory principal on the advisor review team where she held her Series 7 and 24 licenses. Now with True West, she is excited to draw on her broad industry expertise as she transitions to supporting RIAs.
[mailto:anna.burdine@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:anna.burdine@truewest-consulting.com)
## Erika Landavazo
Compliance Associate
Erika Landavazo is a Compliance Associate at True West Consulting, bringing nearly 10 years of experience in the financial services industry. Her background includes working with both Broker-Dealers and Registered Investment Advisory firms, with experience in regulatory compliance, branch office examinations, supervisory processes, and communications review. She has supported compliance initiatives, strengthened internal workflows, and collaborated with cross-functional teams to improve compliance practices and operational efficiency.
[mailto:erika.landavazo@truewest-consulting.com](mailto:erika.landavazo@truewest-consulting.com)