Picture this: You’re an attorney with a background in Wall Street, sitting at the crossroads of tradition and the cutting edge. That’s exactly where Dilveer Vahali found himself—navigating legal uncertainty in the high-stakes world of Web3.

On this episode of Letters of Intent, Pankaj Raval and Sahil Chaudry sat down with Dilveer, who’s now leading venture legal at a major crypto fund, to talk about what it really means to practice law in a space where the rules are still being written. From his journey as a Sikh American lawyer to his passion for flying planes and sailing, Dilveer’s story is packed with wisdom for entrepreneurs, attorneys, and anyone building something new.

Let’s unpack the key lessons from this fascinating conversation, plus a few legal takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Embracing Your Differences: The Unexpected Professional Advantage

Dilveer starts by sharing something personal: how being a visible minority in the legal field became a strength instead of a barrier.

It wasn’t always easy. But over time, he learned to embrace his differences, using them to stand out in a crowded field. For entrepreneurs and business owners, this is gold. Whether it’s your culture, background, or unique perspective, lean into it. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a strategic advantage in business.

The Power of Combining Business and Legal Expertise

Let’s be real: Legal knowledge alone doesn’t cut it in today’s fast-moving markets. Dilveer is a prime example of why blending business savvy with legal acumen is such a game-changer.

He’s worked at Citigroup during the 2008 financial crisis, made partner at Kirkland & Ellis, and now applies M&A principles to blockchain deals. What’s the common thread? Understanding not just the law, but the business dynamics at play.

For founders, this is your reminder: Having a lawyer who gets both sides—business and legal—isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.

Applying M&A Principles to Web3: Yes, It’s Possible

Here’s a question that stumps a lot of people: How do you apply traditional deal-making concepts like M&A to something as fast-evolving and unpredictable as blockchain?

Dilveer’s answer is refreshingly simple: Start with the fundamentals.

Risk management, contract clarity, understanding value propositions—these principles still apply, even when the underlying technology is cutting-edge. It’s about expanding possibilities, not treating every deal like a zero-sum game.

That mindset shift is critical. Whether you’re negotiating a merger, an equity deal, or a smart contract, thinking collaboratively can unlock more value than sticking to old-school, win-at-all-costs strategies.

The Importance of Saying “I Don’t Know”

In a world obsessed with certainty, Dilveer offers a counterpoint: It’s okay to admit when you don’t have all the answers. In fact, it’s smart.

This is especially true in emerging fields like Web3, where the legal frameworks are still catching up. Admitting uncertainty creates space for learning, collaboration, and better solutions.

For business owners, it’s a great reminder: Surround yourself with advisors—legal and otherwise—who aren’t afraid to say, “I don’t know, but I’ll find out.”

Building a Multifaceted Life: The Secret to Staying Grounded

Beyond the law and deal-making, Dilveer’s story is also about living fully. He’s a pilot. A sailor. A professor. A real estate developer.

It’s easy to get tunnel vision as an entrepreneur, but Dilveer shows us the power of a multidimensional life. Exploring different passions can actually make you sharper and more adaptable in your career.

Think about it: The resilience you build from learning to sail through rough waters? That mindset applies when you’re navigating a challenging negotiation or launching a new product. It’s all connected.

The Big Legal Takeaway: Risk-Taking Is Essential—But So Is Legal Foresight

If there’s one thing Dilveer’s journey teaches us, it’s that innovation doesn’t happen without risk. But—and this is a big but—you need a legal strategy that matches your ambition.

Whether you’re raising capital for a Web3 startup, drafting a partnership agreement, or negotiating equity splits, having legal counsel that understands both the big picture and the nitty-gritty is key.

Dilveer’s advice for founders? Don’t just focus on getting the deal done. Think about the long-term implications—like equity allocation, IP protection, and regulatory compliance. That’s how you build something that lasts.

Final Thoughts: Finding Joy in the Process

At the end of the day, what drives Dilveer isn’t just the deals—it’s the joy of learning, building, and growing. That’s a lesson every entrepreneur, lawyer, and professional can take to heart.

So whether you’re launching a startup, scaling a business, or pivoting to something new, remember: Find the joy in the process. Take calculated risks. And make sure your legal strategy supports your vision, not just today, but for the long haul.

Ready to Build Your Next Big Thing?

If you’re navigating the legal challenges of a new venture—whether in Web3, tech, or any other industry—don’t go it alone. Our team at Carbon Law Group specializes in helping entrepreneurs and businesses turn big ideas into thriving realities.

Let’s connect and make sure your legal foundation is as strong as your vision.

🔗 Learn More at Carbon Law Group

🔗 Connect with Dilveer: LinkedIn

🔗 Connect with Pankaj: LinkedIn

🔗 Connect with Sahil: LinkedIn