1. The Ethics of
Practice Management
Beverly Michaelis  Sheila Blackford  Dee Crocker

2. Trust Accounting
Beverly Michaelis, J.D.
Practice Management Advisor

3. What is at Stake?

4. Our Topics
 6 Key Concepts
 Protecting Client Money
 Resources

5. 6 Key Concepts

6. Concept #1
Unearned Money Belongs in Trust
1. Retainers
2. Settlement Proceeds
3. Overpayments

7. Concept #2
Deposit Funds Promptly
 Deposit Daily
 Protect After Hours
 Issue Receipts for Cash

8. Concept #3
Don’t Spend What You Don’t Have
1. Funds Must Clear
2. Follow the 3-5-10 Rule
3. Be Wary of Check Scams

9. Concept #4
Account to the Client

10. Concept #5
Beware of Nonrefundable Fees
 Put it in Writing
 “Earned Upon Receipt”
 Refund if Work not Done
 Dishonest?

11. Concept #6
Strict Liability Applies
Every lawyer shall certify annually
that the lawyer is in compliance with
Rule 1.15-1.
ORPC 1.15-2(m)

12. Protecting Client Money

13. To Catch a Thief
1. Endorse and Lockup
2. Protect Credit Card Numbers
3. Cancel Invoices
4. Supervise Staff
5. Learn More

14. Resources

15. Oregon State Bar
• Ethics Opinions
• Bar Counsel Article Archive
• Ethics Advice
(503) 620-0222 or (800) 452-8260
www.osbar.org

16. Beverly Michaelis
Dee Crocker
Sheila Blackford
 Practice Aids
 Books
 CLEs
 Practice Management Help
503-639-6911 or 800-452-1639
www.osbplf.org

17. Trust Accounting
for Solos

18. Conclusion
1. Remember What is at Stake
2. Follow Proper Procedures
3. Call if you Need Help

20. How Will You Benefit?
1. Ethical Obligations Met
2. Finances in Order
3. Fewer Fee Disputes
4. No More Sleepless Nights