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CLE: Trust me, I'm a lawyer: Trust accounts, finances, fee-splitting, and freelancing

On Demand

Managing client funds is one of the fastest ways lawyers get into trouble. This CLE cuts through the confusion and gives you practical guidance on trust accounting, third-party disputes, fee arrangements, and freelancing, straight from one of the most trusted ethics educators in the legal profession.

This course is eligible for 1.0 CLE credit. Registrants can access the credit tab in the CE21 registration link to check to see if their state is listed.

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  • CED
    By Claude Ducloux
CED

What you’ll learn at this webinar

  • How to use trust accounts correctly and avoid common IOLTA mistakes

  • Best practices for handling flat fees, retainers, and earned versus unearned funds

  • How to navigate third-party claims, liens, and disputed funds

  • Ways to structure freelance and fee-splitting arrangements without crossing ethical lines

  • How to set up billing, recordkeeping, and office practices that hold up under audit

What’s at stake if you get it wrong?

When it comes to client funds, good intentions do not protect you. Even small missteps can trigger serious consequences, especially when trust accounts, flat fees, or third-party claims are involved.

Attorneys who mishandle funds risk audits, disciplinary action, fee disputes, and damage to their professional reputation. In some jurisdictions, trust account errors can lead to mandatory reporting, random audits, or immediate bar scrutiny. The time, stress, and cost of responding can quickly outweigh whatever shortcut caused the issue in the first place.

Financial mistakes also erode client trust. Delayed refunds, unclear invoices, or disputed distributions can turn a satisfied client into a complaint, even when the underlying legal work was solid. Once trust is shaken, referrals slow down, and reputations suffer.

Why this matters now

Trust accounting mistakes remain one of the leading reasons attorneys face disciplinary action. As freelance models and rapid payment methods become the standard, the margin for error continues to narrow against a backdrop of rising client expectations.

This CLE helps you stay ahead of changing expectations and enforcement trends. You’ll walk away with practical guidance you can apply immediately, so your firm stays compliant, audit-ready, and focused on serving clients, not fixing preventable problems.

Frequently asked questions

Is this CLE webinar available on demand?

Yes. This webinar is available on demand, so you can watch it at a time that works best for your schedule.

Is this program eligible for CLE credit?

Yes. This on-demand program qualifies for CLE credit. Credit eligibility and requirements may vary by jurisdiction, so be sure to review your state’s specific rules for on-demand CLEs.

Can I start and stop the webinar, or watch it in multiple sittings?

Yes. On-demand access allows you to pause, rewind, and return to the program as needed.

Who should watch this webinar?

This session is for attorneys who handle client funds and want to reduce risk around trust accounting, billing, and fee arrangements. If you touch client money, this webinar is for you.

Does this course cover IOLTA compliance?

Yes. Trust accounts, IOLTA handling, and common compliance pitfalls are a core focus of the program.

Do I need to complete anything to receive CLE credit?

Yes. You must watch the entire program to receive CLE credit. The webinar includes attendance prompts throughout to verify participation.

Trust accounting mistakes are avoidable. This CLE helps you spot issues early, handle money correctly, and run your practice with confidence.

Register now and reserve your spot.

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Presenter
CED

Claude Ducloux