Trustworthy? Ethics for Prepaid Fees and Settlement Proceeds

Delve into the realm of lawyer trust accounts through this comprehensive course, which not only imparts practical insights into the management and accounting of prepaid fees and settlement proceeds but also underscores the ethical considerations inherent in these financial dealings. Designed for legal professionals who encounter prepaid fees, costs, settlement proceeds, or multi-claimant payments, this course holds relevance irrespective of whether another colleague oversees your firm's financial administration.

By participating in this course, attendees will not only grasp the intricacies of when and why a trust account becomes imperative for these transactions but will also gain a deep understanding of the ethical dimensions intertwined with such financial responsibilities. Elevating the discourse beyond the mechanical aspects, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the nuances of bookkeeping, recordkeeping, and accountability on a client-specific basis.

In a rapidly evolving legal landscape, ethical considerations serve as the cornerstone of professional conduct. Therefore, this course goes beyond mere technicalities, emphasizing the importance of upholding integrity, transparency, and fiduciary responsibility while managing client funds. As legal practitioners, your role extends beyond legal expertise; it encompasses safeguarding the trust and confidence bestowed upon you by clients. This course equips you with the tools to fulfill these responsibilities adeptly, ensuring the harmonious convergence of legal practice and ethical obligations.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze ABA Model Rule 1.15 on lawyer trust accounts and major state variances
• Identify deposit and disbursement requirements under Rule 1.15 for prepaid fees and deposits in which anyone other than you have an interest (such as settlement proceeds)
• Explore bookkeeping and record keeping: best practices versus minimum ethical requirements associated with your trust account

Course Time Schedule:

Eastern Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Central Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Mountain Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Pacific Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Alaska Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Hawaii-Aleutian Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

This course is also being presented on the following dates:

Thursday, November 21, 2024
Thursday, December 19, 2024