5 Ways to Run a Compliant Law Firm
Maintaining compliance is a must for any firm that wants to keep their clients happy, avoid issues with their bar association, and run an ethical, efficient practice. The stakes are high in the legal industry, where violations can result in disciplinary actions, including sanctions and even disbarment. To avoid this, law firms must be dedicated to setting up processes and … Read More
What is the statement of cash flows for law firms?
The statement of cash flows, sometimes alternatively referred to as the cash flow statement, shows law firms where the cash is coming in and where it’s going. On the report, the cash flow statement will list inflows and outflows into helpful line items. It includes cash from investing returns, operating activities and financing/borrowing. This statement provides firms with a short-term … Read More
What is my law firm's tax liability?
Tax liability occurs because of a taxable event, which is frequently is fiscal year-end financial taxes. However, there are other scenarios in which law firms can incur tax liability, including royalty income, stock or asset sales or business mergers that cause profits. In legal terms, tax liability means the government has a client on assets, which are typically those in … Read More
Are settlement funds taxed?
Many plaintiffs are surprised to find their settlement funds are taxable. The amount and whether or not the funds are entirely taxable is dependent on several key items. Lawyers who are responsible for providing clients with a settlement sheet, so it’s important to keep this in mind throughout the process. Key items to note include the following[1]: Punitive damages and … Read More
What year-end financial reports should my law firm have?
At the end of each year there are various financial reports law firms should have to be in compliance and have the data they need to make strategic decisions for the following year. Accounts Receivable and Collections Reports Make sure all time and billing is up to date. For invoices that are past due, create a full list of any … Read More
How to Avoid Client Ledger Overdrafts
Keeping track of individual client ledger balances and making sure there are sufficient funds to cover any disbursements is a requirement of trust accounting compliance[1]. To prevent a situation where there is an overdraft on a client trust account, you must keep careful track of the balances of each individual trust account. These funds are typically pooled into one larger … Read More