What risk management practices should a tax practitioner/adviser or accountant adopt to minimise the likelihood of negligence occurring?

Steven and Lamont have recently set up an accounting practice in partnership. They have prepared a written partnership agreement in which it states that any purchase over $1,000 shall only be made after both partners agree. Steven and Lamont purchased all their office furniture and equipment from Mack at OfficeStuff. Mack contacted Steven and offered the partnership a great deal on a computer package for $2,000. Lamont is out seeing clients and cannot be contacted. Steven goes ahead and purchases the computer package. When Lamont is informed he says the purchase is not valid and wants Mack to take the computer package back and refund their money. Mack refuses. Discuss the issues raised and the likely outcome of these circumstances.

Under what circumstances may company directors be held responsible for the debts incurred by the company?