This webinar presents basic practice pointers to avoid malpractice and disciplinary actions, and how to respond to claims of malpractice or unethical behavior if they arise. The panel also discusses the role that malpractice insurance plays in these situations and the ramifications of a malpractice judgment or disciplinary action. Model Rules addressed may include: those that govern the client-lawyer relationship (Rules 1.1 through 1.10; 1.13; and 1.16); those that that speak to transactions with persons other than clients (Rules 4.1 through 4.4); those that govern the responsibilities of managing and supervisory lawyers, subordinate lawyers, non-lawyer assistance, independence, unauthorized practice of law, and multijurisdictional practice (Rules 5.1 through 5.5); and those that govern communication, including advertising and solicitation of clients (Rules 7.1 through 7.5).
Part of the webinar series: LEGAL ETHICS – BEST PRACTICES 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
How to Avoid Malpractice & Disciplinary Actions - General Do's and Don'ts (Se...Financial Poise
This webinar presents basic practice pointers to avoid malpractice and disciplinary actions, and how to respond to claims of malpractice or unethical behavior if they arise. The panel also discusses the role that malpractice insurance plays in these situations and the ramifications of a malpractice judgment or disciplinary action. Model Rules addressed may include: those that govern the client-lawyer relationship (Rules 1.1 through 1.10; 1.13; and 1.16); those that that speak to transactions with persons other than clients (Rules 4.1 through 4.4); those that govern the responsibilities of managing and supervisory lawyers, subordinate lawyers, non-lawyer assistance, independence, unauthorized practice of law, and multijurisdictional practice (Rules 5.1 through 5.5); and those that govern communication, including advertising and solicitation of clients (Rules 7.1 through 7.5).
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/how-to-avoid-malpractice-disciplinary-actions-general-dos-and-donts-2021/
Paying for Litigation- Hourly, Contingency, Third Party Financing & More (Ser...Financial Poise
As the cost and duration of litigation continue to increase, clients have begun demanding fee arrangements that deliver maximum value and best mitigate risk. This webinar explores the mechanics and pros and cons of various fee arrangements, from hourly to contingent to mixtures of the two. We also discuss the increasingly popular option of third-party litigation finance.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/paying-for-litigation-hourly-contingency-third-party-financing-more-2021/
When business owners come to the point where they simply can’t see eye to eye, success can become unfeasible. Disputes between business owners can arise from any number of issues and have varying impacts on the actual business, ranging from simple distraction to total dissolution. Depending on the business and circumstance, the means for resolution may or may not be provided for in the relevant by-laws or shareholder agreement. In this webinar, the expert panel discusses different types of shareholder disputes and corresponding remedies, including alternative dispute resolution, buy-sell agreement provisions, and share valuation considerations.
Part of the webinar series: Complex Financial Litigation 2021
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
When business owners come to the point where they simply can’t see eye to eye, success can become unfeasible. Disputes between business owners can arise from any number of issues and have varying impacts on the actual business, ranging from simple distraction to total dissolution. Depending on the business and circumstance, the means for resolution may or may not be provided for in the relevant by-laws or shareholder agreement. In this webinar, the expert panel discusses different types of shareholder disputes and corresponding remedies, including alternative dispute resolution, buy-sell agreement provisions, and share valuation considerations.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/resolving-shareholder-disputes-2020/
Shutting The Door on Legal Malpractice nelysonboyd
"Understanding and avoiding potential conflicts of interest, organizing your practice, and fostering healthy client relationships will help you prevent ethics complaints and malpractice lawsuits." Deborah M. Nelson
How to Avoid Malpractice & Disciplinary Actions - General Do's and Don'ts (Se...Financial Poise
This webinar presents basic practice pointers to avoid malpractice and disciplinary actions, and how to respond to claims of malpractice or unethical behavior if they arise. The panel also discusses the role that malpractice insurance plays in these situations and the ramifications of a malpractice judgment or disciplinary action. Model Rules addressed may include: those that govern the client-lawyer relationship (Rules 1.1 through 1.10; 1.13; and 1.16); those that that speak to transactions with persons other than clients (Rules 4.1 through 4.4); those that govern the responsibilities of managing and supervisory lawyers, subordinate lawyers, non-lawyer assistance, independence, unauthorized practice of law, and multijurisdictional practice (Rules 5.1 through 5.5); and those that govern communication, including advertising and solicitation of clients (Rules 7.1 through 7.5).
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/how-to-avoid-malpractice-disciplinary-actions-general-dos-and-donts-2021/
Paying for Litigation- Hourly, Contingency, Third Party Financing & More (Ser...Financial Poise
As the cost and duration of litigation continue to increase, clients have begun demanding fee arrangements that deliver maximum value and best mitigate risk. This webinar explores the mechanics and pros and cons of various fee arrangements, from hourly to contingent to mixtures of the two. We also discuss the increasingly popular option of third-party litigation finance.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/paying-for-litigation-hourly-contingency-third-party-financing-more-2021/
When business owners come to the point where they simply can’t see eye to eye, success can become unfeasible. Disputes between business owners can arise from any number of issues and have varying impacts on the actual business, ranging from simple distraction to total dissolution. Depending on the business and circumstance, the means for resolution may or may not be provided for in the relevant by-laws or shareholder agreement. In this webinar, the expert panel discusses different types of shareholder disputes and corresponding remedies, including alternative dispute resolution, buy-sell agreement provisions, and share valuation considerations.
Part of the webinar series: Complex Financial Litigation 2021
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
When business owners come to the point where they simply can’t see eye to eye, success can become unfeasible. Disputes between business owners can arise from any number of issues and have varying impacts on the actual business, ranging from simple distraction to total dissolution. Depending on the business and circumstance, the means for resolution may or may not be provided for in the relevant by-laws or shareholder agreement. In this webinar, the expert panel discusses different types of shareholder disputes and corresponding remedies, including alternative dispute resolution, buy-sell agreement provisions, and share valuation considerations.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/resolving-shareholder-disputes-2020/
Shutting The Door on Legal Malpractice nelysonboyd
"Understanding and avoiding potential conflicts of interest, organizing your practice, and fostering healthy client relationships will help you prevent ethics complaints and malpractice lawsuits." Deborah M. Nelson
Collateral value is the foundation of all lending transactions, but even the most traditional valuation techniques require a blend of art science and require debtors and practitioners to incorporate their judgment. Where is the line between reasonable judgment and gaming the system to arrive at a valuation that skews the fact pattern to one party’s favor? This webinar presents practice pointers on how to use the ABA Model Rules as a guide to navigating ethical issues in real estate valuation. Model Rules addressed may include those that govern the client-lawyer relationship (Rule 1.1 through 1.3); those that speak to the need for candor toward the tribunal and fairness to an opposing party and counsel (Rule 3.3 through 3.4); and the necessity for truthfulness in statements to others and issues surrounding unrepresented persons (i.e. Rule 4.1 through 4.3).
Part of the webinar series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankruptcies 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
BUSINESS LAW REVIEW- 2022: Defending White Collar Crime-101Financial Poise
While white collar crimes don’t usually carry the same stigma or penalties as violent crime, the consequences of a conviction, or even an allegation can be devastating. Leaving prison time aside, the business may also face investigation, prosecution and possibly, the risk of reputational damage, financial loss and unwanted exposure.
As governmental enforcement of laws against those accused of white collar crime increases, companies need to understand how to avoid unknowingly acting in ways that may be unlawful, how to prevent and detect potential employee misconduct, and how to react if misconduct does occur.
Part of the webinar series: Business Law Review 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
The three-steps guide for successful litigation procedures. Information about third-party litigation funding included. Worthwhile literature provided by Redress Solutions, London, UK.
Insider Lease Agreements (Series: Fairness Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankru...Financial Poise
It is a common play in real estate to create a separate operating entity to serve as a tenant and execute a lease between the owner of the property and himself. Typically, this happens in assets which serve as a real estate-based business, such as a retail property. The structured enables the operator to reduce the taxable income of the business and also provide a liability shield for the property owner.
This arrangement can lead to some ethical issues, should the property owner become distressed. For example, is the lease amount above market and therefore being used to inflate the property valuation? Is rent actually being paid? Is there a proper lease in place or just an internal handshake? Attorneys need to understand the set-up in order to know what is in bounds and what is outside the lines.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to:https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/insider-lease-agreements-2021/
Insider Lease Agreements (Series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankrup...Financial Poise
It is a common play in real estate to create a separate operating entity to serve as a tenant and execute a lease between the owner of the property and himself. Typically, this happens in assets which serve as a real estate-based business, such as a retail property. The structure enables the operator to reduce the taxable income of the business and also provide a liability shield for the property owner. This arrangement can lead to some ethical issues should the property owner become distressed. For example, is the lease amount above market and therefore being used to inflate the property valuation? Is rent actually being paid? Is there a proper lease in place or just an internal handshake? Attorneys need to understand the set-up in order to know what is in bounds and what is outside the lines. This webinar looks at this leasing structure and examines the issues that may arise.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/insider-lease-agreements-2020/
Current Issues in Securities RegulationNow Dentons
Mark Evans, a partner in the FMC Toronto office, was invited to speak at the Second Annual Securities Symposium this month about current issues in the area of Securities Regulation.
Home Inspector's Insurance & Risk Management - July 19, 2013Gerald Brunker
Home Inspector professional liability, general liability and other applicable insurances for home inspectors. Risk management tips and hints and home inspector claim information.
Single Asset Real Estate Cases (Series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based B...Financial Poise
Anyone involved in the field of creditors rights on a matter involving an LLC that exists solely to hold the principal asset has surely seen the play where, the night before property is scheduled to be sold at a foreclosure auction, the debtor files bankruptcy. For those not familiar with the process, doing so invokes the “Automatic Stay”, which prohibits the secured lender from foreclosing on the property. The debtor then attempts to make their case to the court for reorganization. But is failing to pay your mortgage really something bankruptcy was meant to solve? If the bank was going to agree to a loan modification, wouldn’t the parities have worked something out by the time the sheriff sale was set? The bankruptcy code recognizes this and therefore has a section devoted to dealing with this specific kind of bankruptcy—the Single Asset Real Estate (“SARE”) case. The goal of this episode is to look into ethical issues surrounding these matters.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/single-asset-real-estate-cases-2020/
This white paper examines the two primary sources of compliance obligations related to contracts: performance obligations and government regulations. For each source of compliance challenge, this paper identifies methods to improve compliance and contract management. Finally, this paper examines the kind of reporting that makes
Contracts create the network of relationships that allow organizations to thrive. Contracts generate revenue and control expenses. They allocate risks and responsibilities. Contracts create assets and liabilities. Contracts are the foundation of enterprise.
Compliance requirements touch every organization across industries. Regulations can lay down the rules of the road or impose barriers to business. Compliance is essential for success, like good brakes on a car.
Defending Against Bankruptcy Avoidance Actions (Series: Complex Financial Lit...Financial Poise
In the event of a bankruptcy, the debtor or trustee may opt to take legal action in order to recover money or property that was transferred by the debtor prior to going bankrupt. These actions, whereby such transfers are effectively reversed, are referred to as “avoidance actions.” In this webinar, the expert panel discusses the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code, common avoidance actions, and key considerations when planning for and defending against these actions.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/defending-against-bankruptcy-avoidance-actions-2021/
Valuing Real Estate Assets (Series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankr...Financial Poise
As the expression goes, the value of real estate is in the eye of the beholder. Ultimately, the value is whatever the market is willing to pay. While income producing properties, particularly with credit worthy tenants, may be fairly routine to value based on current rate of return demands in the market, non-income producing properties may be more speculative. For example, even the most seasoned appraiser may struggle with finding comparative sales for a property. A landowner might see their property value go up exponentially “if only” the city council will allow for a zoning variance. Many an owner believes their property is in the “path of progress”, but when? Is it reasonable to value a property “as stabilized” if it is only forty percent leased? These are the types of questions we will consider.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/valuing-real-estate-assets-2020/
The REALTOR Code of EthicsNew Member Orientation ProgramEvangeline Yia
All REALTORS® regardless of their specialty in the real estate business (appraisal, property management, etc.) are bound by the duties in the REALTORS®’ Code of Ethics.
Here is our ppt deck from the June 6th TMA presentation in Chicago. Thanks to my fellow panelists: Dave Gozdecki, Reid Schar and Jeff Vogelsang. Attendees received 1.5 hrs CE
Valuing Real Estate Assets (Series: Fairness Issues in Real Estate-Based Bank...Financial Poise
As the expression goes, the value of real estate is in the eye of the beholder. Ultimately, the value is whatever the market is willing to pay. While income producing properties, particularly with creditworthy tenants, may be fairly routine to value based on the current rate of return demands in the market, non-income producing properties may be more speculative.
For example, even the most seasoned appraiser may struggle with finding comparative sales for a property. A landowner might see their property value go up exponentially “if only” the city council will allow for a zoning variance. Many an owner believes that their property is in the “path of progress,” but when? Is it reasonable to value a property “as stabilized” if it is only forty percent leased? These are the types of questions we will consider.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/valuing-real-estate-assets-2021/
Employee RightsWhat Every Fraud Examiner Needs to KnowJanuaryTanaMaeskm
Employee Rights
What Every Fraud Examiner Needs to Know
January/February 2001
By Kevin P. Prendergast, J.D.
The phrase "getting off on a technicality" is well-known in the criminal law arena. If a law enforcement officer is found to have violated the rights of a suspect during a search or arrest, the suspect could walk free, regardless of his guilt or culpability. That same concept applies in the employment law setting as well.
For example, I was recently involved in a case involving an employee in a highly safety-sensitive position who was terminated for failing an alcohol screening. At the arbitration, the employee freely admitted to having consumed a 12-pack of beer prior to reporting to work. The employee was involved in an altercation on the job and was ordered to immediately go for the screening, which he couldn’t pass.
However, the employee, as a union member and a public employee, was protected by union contract, civil service rules, statutes, and the U.S. Constitution. His supervisors, when ordering the alcohol screen, had failed to follow the technical rules governing screening. This employee prevailed on the technicality, triumphantly returning to work with a year’s worth of back pay. Both supervisors were later disciplined by the employer who was quite irritated at having to sign a check for the back pay.
If you’re asked to investigate employee misconduct, you’ll need to know the laws that limit or even prohibit certain types of investigations. If you don’t, you could become embroiled in some nasty courtroom battles.
Ten years ago, the debate was whether an employee’s locker or desk could be searched. Today, the arguments are over the sanctity of hard drives, e-mail messages, and voice mail.
Employment litigation can have a tremendous effect on a company’s bottom line. Even when a firm prevails in court, the cost of managers tied up in depositions and trial preparation can be substantial. Avoid landing in court by knowing the laws and the latest interpretations.
As an initial matter – prior to commencing an investigation – you need to know what type of employment relationship exists between the employer and employee. This step will often set the ground rules to which you will need to adhere. Once you begin the investigation, you need to be aware of the applicable laws so that you can at least spot potential issues and avoid problems. You don’t need to be an expert but you do need to know all written procedures to avoid the "technicality trap."
Define Employment Relationship
All employment relationships aren’t created equal. The nature of the relationship will set limitations on the type of investigation to be performed. Investigations may be limited by written agreements, union contracts, civil service rules, or constitutional limitations applicable to public employees.
Define Term Employment
Employees may be hired for a definite period of time. During that time, they may only be terminated for "just c ...
Introduction to Commercial Litigation FinanceFinancial Poise
Litigation funding is an increasingly popular tool for attorneys and parties with legal claims to share the risk and reward of litigation or arbitration with third-party investors, and for investors to capitalize on the uncorrelated returns generated by legal-driven revenue. This webinar is intended to provide an overview of the topic generally, touching on the “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how’s” behind litigation funding.
Part of the webinar series: Commercial Litigation Funding 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Claims Trading in bankruptcy cases has advanced and grown in sophistication swiftly in recent history. Companies and their advisors should be prepared before wading into these waters. How will a claim be treated once transferred? What steps should a company acquiring a claim take to ensure the claim is paid? How should a claim be valued? What kind of documentation will be needed to properly transfer the claim? If a dispute arises regarding the claim, how should the acquiring company defend itself? For 2021, do the financial programs initiated under the CARES Act impact claims trading, and if so, how? This webinar focuses on understanding these issues and addressing best practices for advanced reorganization practitioners and advisors working on the cutting edge of bankruptcy transactions.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/bankruptcy-claims-trading-2021/
IP-301 POST-GRANT REVIEW TRIALS 2022 - Things to Consider Before You FileFinancial Poise
This segment will delve into considerations that come into play when filing or responding to post-grant review proceedings. These considerations include issues of real party in interest, timing, and substantive arguments.
Part of the webinar series: IP-301 POST-GRANT REVIEW TRIALS 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
This segment will discuss the statutory and procedural background of post-grant review proceedings. It will discuss the types of proceedings available and provide a high-level discussion of how the proceedings are conducted.
Part of the webinar series:
IP-301 POST-GRANT REVIEW TRIALS 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
More Related Content
Similar to LEGAL ETHICS – BEST PRACTICES 2022 - How to Avoid Malpractice & Disciplinary Actions - General Do's and Don'ts
Collateral value is the foundation of all lending transactions, but even the most traditional valuation techniques require a blend of art science and require debtors and practitioners to incorporate their judgment. Where is the line between reasonable judgment and gaming the system to arrive at a valuation that skews the fact pattern to one party’s favor? This webinar presents practice pointers on how to use the ABA Model Rules as a guide to navigating ethical issues in real estate valuation. Model Rules addressed may include those that govern the client-lawyer relationship (Rule 1.1 through 1.3); those that speak to the need for candor toward the tribunal and fairness to an opposing party and counsel (Rule 3.3 through 3.4); and the necessity for truthfulness in statements to others and issues surrounding unrepresented persons (i.e. Rule 4.1 through 4.3).
Part of the webinar series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankruptcies 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
BUSINESS LAW REVIEW- 2022: Defending White Collar Crime-101Financial Poise
While white collar crimes don’t usually carry the same stigma or penalties as violent crime, the consequences of a conviction, or even an allegation can be devastating. Leaving prison time aside, the business may also face investigation, prosecution and possibly, the risk of reputational damage, financial loss and unwanted exposure.
As governmental enforcement of laws against those accused of white collar crime increases, companies need to understand how to avoid unknowingly acting in ways that may be unlawful, how to prevent and detect potential employee misconduct, and how to react if misconduct does occur.
Part of the webinar series: Business Law Review 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
The three-steps guide for successful litigation procedures. Information about third-party litigation funding included. Worthwhile literature provided by Redress Solutions, London, UK.
Insider Lease Agreements (Series: Fairness Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankru...Financial Poise
It is a common play in real estate to create a separate operating entity to serve as a tenant and execute a lease between the owner of the property and himself. Typically, this happens in assets which serve as a real estate-based business, such as a retail property. The structured enables the operator to reduce the taxable income of the business and also provide a liability shield for the property owner.
This arrangement can lead to some ethical issues, should the property owner become distressed. For example, is the lease amount above market and therefore being used to inflate the property valuation? Is rent actually being paid? Is there a proper lease in place or just an internal handshake? Attorneys need to understand the set-up in order to know what is in bounds and what is outside the lines.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to:https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/insider-lease-agreements-2021/
Insider Lease Agreements (Series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankrup...Financial Poise
It is a common play in real estate to create a separate operating entity to serve as a tenant and execute a lease between the owner of the property and himself. Typically, this happens in assets which serve as a real estate-based business, such as a retail property. The structure enables the operator to reduce the taxable income of the business and also provide a liability shield for the property owner. This arrangement can lead to some ethical issues should the property owner become distressed. For example, is the lease amount above market and therefore being used to inflate the property valuation? Is rent actually being paid? Is there a proper lease in place or just an internal handshake? Attorneys need to understand the set-up in order to know what is in bounds and what is outside the lines. This webinar looks at this leasing structure and examines the issues that may arise.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/insider-lease-agreements-2020/
Current Issues in Securities RegulationNow Dentons
Mark Evans, a partner in the FMC Toronto office, was invited to speak at the Second Annual Securities Symposium this month about current issues in the area of Securities Regulation.
Home Inspector's Insurance & Risk Management - July 19, 2013Gerald Brunker
Home Inspector professional liability, general liability and other applicable insurances for home inspectors. Risk management tips and hints and home inspector claim information.
Single Asset Real Estate Cases (Series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based B...Financial Poise
Anyone involved in the field of creditors rights on a matter involving an LLC that exists solely to hold the principal asset has surely seen the play where, the night before property is scheduled to be sold at a foreclosure auction, the debtor files bankruptcy. For those not familiar with the process, doing so invokes the “Automatic Stay”, which prohibits the secured lender from foreclosing on the property. The debtor then attempts to make their case to the court for reorganization. But is failing to pay your mortgage really something bankruptcy was meant to solve? If the bank was going to agree to a loan modification, wouldn’t the parities have worked something out by the time the sheriff sale was set? The bankruptcy code recognizes this and therefore has a section devoted to dealing with this specific kind of bankruptcy—the Single Asset Real Estate (“SARE”) case. The goal of this episode is to look into ethical issues surrounding these matters.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/single-asset-real-estate-cases-2020/
This white paper examines the two primary sources of compliance obligations related to contracts: performance obligations and government regulations. For each source of compliance challenge, this paper identifies methods to improve compliance and contract management. Finally, this paper examines the kind of reporting that makes
Contracts create the network of relationships that allow organizations to thrive. Contracts generate revenue and control expenses. They allocate risks and responsibilities. Contracts create assets and liabilities. Contracts are the foundation of enterprise.
Compliance requirements touch every organization across industries. Regulations can lay down the rules of the road or impose barriers to business. Compliance is essential for success, like good brakes on a car.
Defending Against Bankruptcy Avoidance Actions (Series: Complex Financial Lit...Financial Poise
In the event of a bankruptcy, the debtor or trustee may opt to take legal action in order to recover money or property that was transferred by the debtor prior to going bankrupt. These actions, whereby such transfers are effectively reversed, are referred to as “avoidance actions.” In this webinar, the expert panel discusses the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code, common avoidance actions, and key considerations when planning for and defending against these actions.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/defending-against-bankruptcy-avoidance-actions-2021/
Valuing Real Estate Assets (Series: Ethical Issues in Real Estate-Based Bankr...Financial Poise
As the expression goes, the value of real estate is in the eye of the beholder. Ultimately, the value is whatever the market is willing to pay. While income producing properties, particularly with credit worthy tenants, may be fairly routine to value based on current rate of return demands in the market, non-income producing properties may be more speculative. For example, even the most seasoned appraiser may struggle with finding comparative sales for a property. A landowner might see their property value go up exponentially “if only” the city council will allow for a zoning variance. Many an owner believes their property is in the “path of progress”, but when? Is it reasonable to value a property “as stabilized” if it is only forty percent leased? These are the types of questions we will consider.
To listen to this webinar on-demand, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/valuing-real-estate-assets-2020/
The REALTOR Code of EthicsNew Member Orientation ProgramEvangeline Yia
All REALTORS® regardless of their specialty in the real estate business (appraisal, property management, etc.) are bound by the duties in the REALTORS®’ Code of Ethics.
Here is our ppt deck from the June 6th TMA presentation in Chicago. Thanks to my fellow panelists: Dave Gozdecki, Reid Schar and Jeff Vogelsang. Attendees received 1.5 hrs CE
Valuing Real Estate Assets (Series: Fairness Issues in Real Estate-Based Bank...Financial Poise
As the expression goes, the value of real estate is in the eye of the beholder. Ultimately, the value is whatever the market is willing to pay. While income producing properties, particularly with creditworthy tenants, may be fairly routine to value based on the current rate of return demands in the market, non-income producing properties may be more speculative.
For example, even the most seasoned appraiser may struggle with finding comparative sales for a property. A landowner might see their property value go up exponentially “if only” the city council will allow for a zoning variance. Many an owner believes that their property is in the “path of progress,” but when? Is it reasonable to value a property “as stabilized” if it is only forty percent leased? These are the types of questions we will consider.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/valuing-real-estate-assets-2021/
Employee RightsWhat Every Fraud Examiner Needs to KnowJanuaryTanaMaeskm
Employee Rights
What Every Fraud Examiner Needs to Know
January/February 2001
By Kevin P. Prendergast, J.D.
The phrase "getting off on a technicality" is well-known in the criminal law arena. If a law enforcement officer is found to have violated the rights of a suspect during a search or arrest, the suspect could walk free, regardless of his guilt or culpability. That same concept applies in the employment law setting as well.
For example, I was recently involved in a case involving an employee in a highly safety-sensitive position who was terminated for failing an alcohol screening. At the arbitration, the employee freely admitted to having consumed a 12-pack of beer prior to reporting to work. The employee was involved in an altercation on the job and was ordered to immediately go for the screening, which he couldn’t pass.
However, the employee, as a union member and a public employee, was protected by union contract, civil service rules, statutes, and the U.S. Constitution. His supervisors, when ordering the alcohol screen, had failed to follow the technical rules governing screening. This employee prevailed on the technicality, triumphantly returning to work with a year’s worth of back pay. Both supervisors were later disciplined by the employer who was quite irritated at having to sign a check for the back pay.
If you’re asked to investigate employee misconduct, you’ll need to know the laws that limit or even prohibit certain types of investigations. If you don’t, you could become embroiled in some nasty courtroom battles.
Ten years ago, the debate was whether an employee’s locker or desk could be searched. Today, the arguments are over the sanctity of hard drives, e-mail messages, and voice mail.
Employment litigation can have a tremendous effect on a company’s bottom line. Even when a firm prevails in court, the cost of managers tied up in depositions and trial preparation can be substantial. Avoid landing in court by knowing the laws and the latest interpretations.
As an initial matter – prior to commencing an investigation – you need to know what type of employment relationship exists between the employer and employee. This step will often set the ground rules to which you will need to adhere. Once you begin the investigation, you need to be aware of the applicable laws so that you can at least spot potential issues and avoid problems. You don’t need to be an expert but you do need to know all written procedures to avoid the "technicality trap."
Define Employment Relationship
All employment relationships aren’t created equal. The nature of the relationship will set limitations on the type of investigation to be performed. Investigations may be limited by written agreements, union contracts, civil service rules, or constitutional limitations applicable to public employees.
Define Term Employment
Employees may be hired for a definite period of time. During that time, they may only be terminated for "just c ...
Introduction to Commercial Litigation FinanceFinancial Poise
Litigation funding is an increasingly popular tool for attorneys and parties with legal claims to share the risk and reward of litigation or arbitration with third-party investors, and for investors to capitalize on the uncorrelated returns generated by legal-driven revenue. This webinar is intended to provide an overview of the topic generally, touching on the “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how’s” behind litigation funding.
Part of the webinar series: Commercial Litigation Funding 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Claims Trading in bankruptcy cases has advanced and grown in sophistication swiftly in recent history. Companies and their advisors should be prepared before wading into these waters. How will a claim be treated once transferred? What steps should a company acquiring a claim take to ensure the claim is paid? How should a claim be valued? What kind of documentation will be needed to properly transfer the claim? If a dispute arises regarding the claim, how should the acquiring company defend itself? For 2021, do the financial programs initiated under the CARES Act impact claims trading, and if so, how? This webinar focuses on understanding these issues and addressing best practices for advanced reorganization practitioners and advisors working on the cutting edge of bankruptcy transactions.
To view the accompanying webinar, go to: https://www.financialpoise.com/financial-poise-webinars/bankruptcy-claims-trading-2021/
IP-301 POST-GRANT REVIEW TRIALS 2022 - Things to Consider Before You FileFinancial Poise
This segment will delve into considerations that come into play when filing or responding to post-grant review proceedings. These considerations include issues of real party in interest, timing, and substantive arguments.
Part of the webinar series: IP-301 POST-GRANT REVIEW TRIALS 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
This segment will discuss the statutory and procedural background of post-grant review proceedings. It will discuss the types of proceedings available and provide a high-level discussion of how the proceedings are conducted.
Part of the webinar series:
IP-301 POST-GRANT REVIEW TRIALS 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
THE NUTS & BOLTS OF BANKRUPTCY LAW 2022: The Nuts & Bolts of a First Day HearingFinancial Poise
Even when a bankruptcy petition is the result of a soft-landing rather than a freefall, filing a chapter 11 petition is a disruptive event. To facilitate the debtor’s entry into chapter 11 with as little disruption as possible, first day motions are filed to ensure that a debtor-in-possession can minimize interruptions and continue operating its business in order to achieve its goals in chapter 11. This webinar provides an overview of the administrative and operational first day motions typically filed by chapter 11 debtors and the process for requesting a first day hearing, providing notice of the hearing, and ensuring that the hearing runs smoothly.
Part of the webinar series: THE NUTS & BOLTS OF BANKRUPTCY LAW 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2022: Bad Debtor Owes Me Money!Financial Poise
Sometimes it begins when a client, tenant, or customer starts to slow-pay, with the result that your accounts receivable start to accrue gradually. Other times the issue presents itself more suddenly. Either way, you find your company owed a great deal of money that looks like it may not be collected because your client/tenant/customer has filed bankruptcy, has commenced an assignment for the benefit of creditors, has been put into receivership, or is otherwise just plain insolvent. What do you do? What should you not do? The topics discussed in this webinar include the pros and cons of putting a counterparty into involuntary bankruptcy; when and how you may be able to pursue third parties (like guarantors, directors, or officers) for the amount owed; risks related to preference attack; pros and cons of sitting on a “creditors’ committee” in a Chapter 11; how to negotiate for “critical vendor” protection in Chapter 11; and practical guidance for continuing to provide goods or services to an insolvent counterparty.
Part of the webinar series: RESTRUCTURING, INSOLVENCY & TROUBLED COMPANIES 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
We’ve all long heard about writing practices to avoid, including run-on sentences, excessive passive voice, and nominalization. This webinar not only discusses how those habits can damage briefs, but also explores a key habit brief-writers should embrace: using strong, precise verbs, which are the engine of a persuasive sentence. Panelists also exchange views about finding the most persuasive voice and tone, as well as the right temperature for rhetoric.
Part of the webinar series: PERSUASIVE BRIEF WRITING 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
CYBER SECURITY and DATA PRIVACY 2022: Data Breach Response - Before and After...Financial Poise
You’ve received the dreaded call that your company has just suffered a data breach – what do you do next? Who do you call for help? What notification obligations do you have?
With proper preparation, you can mitigate the damage caused by this unfortunate event and put your business in a position to recover. Your company may have already implemented its information security program and identified the responsible parties, including applicable outside experts, to be contacted in the event of a breach. However, now you must call up your incident response team to investigate the extent of the breach, evaluate the possible damage to your company, and determine whether you must notify your clients, customers, or the public of the breach. This webinar will help prepare you to take action when the worst happens.
Part of the webinar series:
CYBER SECURITY and DATA PRIVACY 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
CYBER SECURITY and DATA PRIVACY 2022_How to Build and Implement your Company'...Financial Poise
Data is one of your business’s most valuable assets and requires protection like any other asset. How can you protect your data from unauthorized access or inadvertent disclosure?
An information security program is designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your company’s data and information technology assets. Federal, state, or international law may also require your business to have an information security program in place.
This webinar will provide the basics of how to create and implement an information security program, beginning with identifying your incident response team, putting applicable insurance policies into place, and closing any gaps in the security of your data.
Part of the webinar series:
CYBERSECURITY & DATA PRIVACY 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
NEWBIE LITIGATOR SCHOOL - 101 Part 3 2022 - Enforcement: Post-Judgment Procee...Financial Poise
Obtaining a final and enforceable judgment is often just the first phase of the civil litigation process; without effective enforcement and collection, a judgment is merely a piece of paper (or electronic docket entry). This webinar provides an overview of the technical, procedural and strategic considerations necessary to monetize judgments and make litigation worthwhile.
Part of the webinar series: NEWBIE LITIGATOR SCHOOL - 101 Part 3 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
NEWBIE LITIGATOR SCHOOL - 101 Part 3 2022 -Appellate Practice- 101 Financial Poise
When is an appeal permitted and when should you take one? What rules and procedures govern appellate practice and how can you best avoid technical and procedural mistakes. How are appellate briefs different from those filed with the trial court and what are some keys to making them successful? And how can you best prepare for appellate oral argument? This webinar explores these questions and more with a panel of experienced appellate litigators.
Part of the webinar series: NEWBIE LITIGATOR SCHOOL - 101 Part 3 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
MARKETING TIPS FOR THE NEW (OR OLD!) BUSINESS OWNER 2022: Learn How to Do Con...Financial Poise
There's creating content; then there's creating great content; and then there's creating great content that actually gets seen by the ideal audience. Each of those layers has its own unique challenges. In this webinar episode, we share insights from a variety of highly experienced content creators. Each panelist member provides their own unique spin on how to create great content that gets seen by the intended audience. By the completion of this episode, the audience member will have a clear and actionable plan on how to create outstanding content that meets their unique marketing needs.
Part of the webinar series: MARKETING TIPS FOR THE NEW (OR OLD!) BUSINESS OWNER 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
CHAPTER 11 - INDUSTRY FOCUS 2022 - Focus on Oil and Gas Financial Poise
Although issues in oil and gas chapter 11 cases vary from case to case, there are, nonetheless, certain issues that tend to arise in most oil and gas cases. Among them: treatment of oil and gas leases, the payment of royalties, hedging agreements, and valuation. This webinar addresses such issues.
Part of the webinar series: CHAPTER 11 - INDUSTRY FOCUS 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
BUSINESS LAW REVIEW- 2022: Selling a Business Financial Poise
A Startup is the Founders’ baby - they dream it, created it and worked tirelessly to make it successful. Deciding it may be time to sell all or part is the easy part - acknowledging and addressing the financial and emotional issues can be challenging.
Negotiating with potential buyers or investors is time intensive, to say the least. Positioning a business for a value maximizing transaction requires planning. What professionals need to be engaged? How do the parties come to a valuation? What is the profile of the likely investor or buyer? These are just some of the questions this webinar addresses.
Part of the webinar series: BUSINESS LAW REVIEW- 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
BUSINESS LAW REVIEW- 2022: Immigration Law for Business-101Financial Poise
A basic understanding of immigration law is critical to a vast array of businesses operating in today’s economy. Foreign employees and their sponsoring companies will navigate a complex maze in the attempt to achieve the desired goals of the employee maximizing their ability to provide services and value to the company. One of various determining factors as to which pathway to attempt is whether the goal is an immigrant visa (also known as a “green card”) which may ultimately allow lawful permanent residence in the United States or a non-immigrant visa. The need for foreign labor affects various industries and applies to large segments of skilled, unskilled and semi-skilled workers in jobs ranging from farm to seasonal to high-tech. This webinar explains what businesses need to know in the current environment as well as how political and globalization issues will affect immigration laws going forward.
Part of the webinar series:
BUSINESS LAW REVIEW- 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
NEWBIE LITIGATOR SCHOOL - Part I 2022: Working With Experts Financial Poise
Expert witnesses are an integral part of modern commercial litigation. They can be used for everything from calculating damages to explaining software workflows to establishing industry standards. This webinar begins with an exploration of the common types of cases that call for use of expert testimony. From there, we discuss the rules governing experts, including expert disclosures, discovery, and expert depositions. We also discuss the Daubert standard for excluding expert testimony, and discuss how a successful Daubert motion may be brought. This hour will help you figure out when and how to hire your own expert, and will give you some ideas on how to challenge your opponent’s expert when the time comes.
Part of the webinar series:
NEWBIE LITIGATOR SCHOOL - Part I 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Executive compensation continues its movement towards performance pay as the standard. Compensation structures and proxy disclosures are more and more complex. Investors and proxy advisors continue to increase influence on compensation issues. This webinar examines executive compensation, including equity-based compensation plans and executive employment and severance agreements. The importance of disclosure, alignment of risk, and metrics is also examined. Practical guidance on pay-for-performance and supplemental pay definitions is provided. The panelists discuss the effect of the Dodd-Frank Act on executive compensation, including SEC regulations. Exchange rules are compared to applicable federal law. Best practices regarding executive compensation committees and regulatory requirements for those committees are examined. Shareholder advisory groups promulgate executive compensation related advisory policies for their institutional shareholder clients annually and these policies are also discussed. Issues regarding board composition and leadership structure issues are discussed in relation to executive compensation.
Part of the webinar series:
CORPORATE REGULATORY COMPLIANCE BOOT CAMP 2022 - PART 2
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
CORPORATE REGULATORY COMPLIANCE BOOT CAMP 2022 - PART 2: Securities Law Comp...Financial Poise
The Securities and Exchange Commission has been entrusted with a significant corporate compliance regulatory function, which has been expanded by seminal legislation in the recent past such as the Sarbanes-Oxley (“SOX”) and Dodd-Frank Acts. This webinar discusses board fiduciary duties and the tension between state corporate law standards and federal law. Board composition, independence, structure and processes (including best practices in regard to committees) are analyzed. Specifically, director independence is discussed as is audit committees and related requirements, regulations and exemptions. NASDAQ and the NYSE also have similar requirements for director independence and those are also discussed. The webinar also covers disclosure matters related to SOX compliance, including timing and content of an issuer's periodic disclosures. Both the legal requirements and best practices related to disclosure procedures and internal controls under SOX are examined. Means of controlling the costs of SOX, especially for smaller public companies, are also discussed, including trends in the industry related to high regulatory compliance costs. Finally, the applicability and best practices for privately held companies and SOX are considered.
Part of the webinar series: CORPORATE REGULATORY COMPLIANCE BOOT CAMP 2022 - PART 2
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
The deal is complete, and the parties have finished the hard work. Or have they? Integration planning turns to execution as people, process, and technology are combined once the deal is legally closed. The buyer will need to consider the purchased business or assets from the standpoint of employees, IT, customers, suppliers, and a multitude of other areas. In addition, numerous post-closing legal issues may arise, including purchase price adjustments, breaches of representations and warranties, enforcement of key negative employment-related covenants and restrictive covenants, collection of pre-closing accounts receivable, and true-ups of final financials. This episode guides listeners through the process, timing, and issues which most commonly arise after the closing of deals.
Part of the webinar series:
M&A BOOT CAMP - 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Although every deal is different, understanding any purchase/sale agreement will help you understand other purchase sale agreements. Stated another way, most M&A documents include a similar set of sections and use a similar vocabulary. This episode explains specific, common provisions and discusses how buyers and sellers approach these provisions differently, particularly in light of situational differences (e.g. whether the assets being bought and sold are equity of a company or the assets of a company; whether the seller is going to cease to exists or not). Topics covered will include tax issues; corporate governance; closing conditions; representations and warranties; indemnification provisions; earn-outs; restrictive covenants; antitrust; intellectual property; and employment issues.
Part of the webinar series:
M&A BOOT CAMP - 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Buying, selling, or merging a company typically follows a similar set of steps from deal to deal. The amount of time each step takes varies but the order of the steps is fairly uniform because the steps follow a certain logic: before the parties share meaningful information, they should sign a confidentiality agreement (a/k/a “non-disclosure agreement,” or “NDA”); once a baseline amount of information is known by the would-be buyer, it commonly presents a letter of intent or term sheet to the target or its owner, which serves as an outline for a deal but does not necessarily bind the parties to consummate the transaction; additional due diligence and the negotiation, drafting and signing of definitive documents comes next. The parties then obtain any needed regulatory and/or contractual third party approvals; followed by closing; and finally by post-closing tasks. This webinar will discuss all these steps from a macro perspective so that you can see the forest for the trees, but does not do a deep dive into any single topic. Think of this webinar as a road map or timeline for a typical deal.
Part of the webinar series:
M&A BOOT CAMP - 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
CROWDFUNDING 2022 - Crowdfunding from the Investor's PerspectiveFinancial Poise
This webinar focuses on the opportunities that crowdfunding makes available to the investor, and how the investor should go about navigating this new world. We begin with a basic overview of the new regulatory regime, the requirements to invest, and the on-boarding process one should expect. We then dive deeper into the market opportunity, including how to access and select investments, and expectations investors should set for themselves and the projects they select. This is not intended to support any specific deal selection, but instead sheds a light upon the basic selection criteria available, the method to go about investing and what to avoid.
Part of the webinar series: Crowdfunding 2022
See more at https://www.financialpoise.com/webinars/
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Ethnobotany and Ethnopharmacology:
Ethnobotany in herbal drug evaluation,
Impact of Ethnobotany in traditional medicine,
New development in herbals,
Bio-prospecting tools for drug discovery,
Role of Ethnopharmacology in drug evaluation,
Reverse Pharmacology.
We all have good and bad thoughts from time to time and situation to situation. We are bombarded daily with spiraling thoughts(both negative and positive) creating all-consuming feel , making us difficult to manage with associated suffering. Good thoughts are like our Mob Signal (Positive thought) amidst noise(negative thought) in the atmosphere. Negative thoughts like noise outweigh positive thoughts. These thoughts often create unwanted confusion, trouble, stress and frustration in our mind as well as chaos in our physical world. Negative thoughts are also known as “distorted thinking”.
How to Make a Field invisible in Odoo 17Celine George
It is possible to hide or invisible some fields in odoo. Commonly using “invisible” attribute in the field definition to invisible the fields. This slide will show how to make a field invisible in odoo 17.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
2024.06.01 Introducing a competency framework for languag learning materials ...Sandy Millin
http://sandymillin.wordpress.com/iateflwebinar2024
Published classroom materials form the basis of syllabuses, drive teacher professional development, and have a potentially huge influence on learners, teachers and education systems. All teachers also create their own materials, whether a few sentences on a blackboard, a highly-structured fully-realised online course, or anything in between. Despite this, the knowledge and skills needed to create effective language learning materials are rarely part of teacher training, and are mostly learnt by trial and error.
Knowledge and skills frameworks, generally called competency frameworks, for ELT teachers, trainers and managers have existed for a few years now. However, until I created one for my MA dissertation, there wasn’t one drawing together what we need to know and do to be able to effectively produce language learning materials.
This webinar will introduce you to my framework, highlighting the key competencies I identified from my research. It will also show how anybody involved in language teaching (any language, not just English!), teacher training, managing schools or developing language learning materials can benefit from using the framework.
4. Disclaimer
The material in this webinar is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered
legal, financial or other professional advice. You should consult with an attorney or other
appropriate professional to determine what may be best for your individual needs. While
Financial Poise™ takes reasonable steps to ensure that information it publishes is accurate,
Financial Poise™ makes no guaranty in this regard.
4
5. Meet the Faculty
MODERATOR:
Michelle Gershfeld - Law Offices of Michelle Gershfeld
PANELISTS:
Bernard Burk – Visitor, PennState Law; Visitor, Seattle University School of Law
George Kuney - University of Tennessee College of Law
Gerald Meyer - MoloLamken LLP
Kathryn Nadro - Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger LLP
5
6. About This Webinar - How to Avoid Malpractice &
Disciplinary Actions - General DOs and DON’Ts
This webinar presents basic practice pointers to avoid malpractice and disciplinary actions,
and how to respond to claims of malpractice or unethical behavior if they arise. The panel
also discusses the role that malpractice insurance plays in these situations and the
ramifications of a malpractice judgment or disciplinary action. Model Rules addressed may
include: some of those that govern the client-lawyer relationship (including Model Rules 1.1;
1.5, 1.7-1.11, 1.15, 1.16, and 1.18); rules governing the obligations to manage and supervise
lawyers and staff in practice organizations consistent with the Rules of Professional Conduct
(including Model Rules 5.1-5.3); and rules governing communication, including advertising
and solicitation of clients (Model Rules 7.1 through 7.5).
6
7. About This Series
Legal Ethics – Best Practices
Corporate scandals make the headlines periodically, but businesses and the lawyers that
work with them face ethical challenges every day, even in situations that are legally
compliant. This webinar series examines ethical issues confronted by lawyers in a variety of
contexts. The panelists consider and recommend different approaches to ethical decision-
making and lawyers responsibilities and concerns, especially in light of the impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Each Financial Poise Webinar is delivered in Plain English, understandable to investors, business owners, and
executives without much background in these areas, yet is of primary value to attorneys, accountants, and other
seasoned professionals. Each episode brings you into engaging, sometimes humorous, conversations designed to
entertain as it teaches. Each episode in the series is designed to be viewed independently of the other episodes so that
participants will enhance their knowledge of this area whether they attend one, some, or all episodes.
7
8. Episodes in this Series
#1: Best Practices Regarding Technology
Premiere date: 2/16/22
#2: Hot Off the Presses- Recent Cases & Decisions
Premiere date: 3/30/22
#3:How to Avoid Malpractice & Disciplinary Actions - General Do's and Don'ts
Premiere date: 6/22/22
8
9. Episode #3: How to Avoid Malpractice & Disciplinary Actions -
General Do’s and Don’ts
9
10. Malpractice Claims
• A 2016 ABA study showed that four out of five practicing lawyers can expect to be sued for
their professional activities (rightly or wrongly) in the course of their careers.
• Typically, to establish a valid malpractice claim, the plaintiff needs to plead and prove (by a
preponderance of the evidence) that:
✓ The attorney owed the plaintiff a professional duty;
✓ The attorney breached that duty;
✓ The breach of duty actually and proximately caused; and
✓ Compensable pecuniary damage.
11. Malpractice Claims (cont’d)
Regarding Duty and Breach:
• Professional negligence (a breach of the professional standard of care) is the most common,
but not the only, breach of duty asserted in claims against lawyers. A breach of any duty
arising out of the attorney-client relationship that causes compensable pecuniary harm is
actionable and often referred to as “legal malpractice.”
• A breach of the lawyer’s duty of confidentiality, loyalty, or candor can also ground a client’s
“malpractice” claim.
Relationship between Civil Duties and the Rules of Professional Conduct:
• In virtually all jurisdictions, a violation of a Rule of Professional Conduct is not considered
negligence per se
• Instead, the Rules are solely a basis for professional discipline, but are considered relevant
to, and to inform, the professional standard of care
12. When is a “Bad Job” Malpractice?
Malpractice cases are very fact intensive, but there are three characteristics to consider:
1. Was the attorney negligent in the first place? This is not a hindsight analysis but one
undertaken from the point of view of when the alleged mistake occurred. Was the action or
inaction consistent with the community standard of care?
2. Did the mistake cause damage? This is not as simple as it seems. Even if an attorney’s
obvious error in, say, failing to file a complaint before the statute of limitations runs, takes
place, to prevail, the client must show to a “legal certainty” that she would have won the suit
had it been timely filed, how much she would have been awarded, and that the amount
would have been collectable.
3. Are the damages sufficient to justify the investment in the malpractice suit, which is high as
it is a case within a case – prove malpractice and prove the underlying claim.
13. What is the Difference Between Malpractice and
Ethics Violations?
• Not all ethical violations will give rise to a malpractice claim (“The Rules are designed to
provide guidance to lawyers and to provide a structure for regulating conduct through
disciplinary agencies. They are not designed to be a basis for civil liability.” Model Rules,
Preamble ¶ [20].)
• Malpractice requires harm to the client, caused by the attorney’s bad conduct
• Malpractice claims compensate harmed clients, generally in the form of money damages in
a civil lawsuit or arbitration
• Ethics proceedings affect the attorney’s license and ability to practice law
14. Retention Agreements
● Retention or engagement letters are critical for a good client relationship
• They should lay out the basis for fees, the scope of representation, whether any conflicts
of interest exist, rules about retainers, how to terminate the representation , “preferably in
writing.”
• If the lawyer is charging a contingency fee, a written retention agreement is required
• Many ethical rules are implicated in written retention agreements:
➢ Model Rule 1.0(e): informed consent (consent “after the lawyer has communicated
adequate information and explanation about the material risks of and reasonably
available alternatives to the proposed course of conduct”)
15. Retention Agreements (cont’d)
Many ethical rules are implicated in written retention agreements:
➢ Model Rule 1.5(b): Mandatory contents of retention agreements:
The scope of representation and the basis or rate of the fee and expenses for which
the client will be responsible shall be communicated to the client, preferably in writing,
before or within a reasonable time after commencing the representation, [except when
there is an existing relationship on set terms].”
➢ Model Rule 1.5(c): Contingent fee agreements:
“[Contingent fees are allowed except as prohibited by governing law.] A contingent fee
agreement shall be in a writing signed by the client and shall state the method by
which the fee is to be determined, including the percentages that shall accrue to the
lawyer in the event of settlement, trial,or appeal; litigation and other expenses to be
deducted from the recovery; and whether such expenses are to be deducted before or
after the contingent fee is calculated. The agreement must clearly notify the client of
any expenses for which the client will be liable whether or not the client is the
prevailing party.”
16. Retention Agreements (cont’d)
Many ethical rules are implicated in written retention agreements:
➢ Retainers and deposits against future fees and costs do not have to be documented in
writing, but it is unwise not to do so. The retainer agreement is the ideal place to
explain what the retainer or deposit is for, how and when it will be applied, and whether
the client must increase or replenish a deposit upon the lawyer’s reasonable request.
➢ Conflicts of interest must be disclosed in detail and, where consentable, receive the
client’s informed consent before the lawyer may proceed. See Model Rules 1.7-1.11,
1.18. The Model Rules do not require the lawyer’s disclosure or the client’s consent to
be in writing, but written disclosure and consent is vastly superior for clarity and
avoidance of disputes. A written retention agreement is a very good place to include
any necessary disclosures, and seek the client’s written consent.
17. Arbitration Clauses in Retention Agreements
Many lawyers use arbitration clauses in retention agreements? Should they?
Maybe:
● Some jurisdictions limit or forbid lawyers from agreeing with clients to arbitrate future
disputes, though many jurisdictions allow it.
● Some states require that the client be given an opportunity to get independent counsel
before agreeing to arbitrate legal fee disputes and legal malpractice cases
18. Arbitration Clauses in Retention Agreements
(cont’d)
● Where lawyer-client binding arbitration is permitted, its wisdom and utility really
depends on the relationship between client and attorney and the scope of the
representation
➢ Arbitration may limit discovery and provide different procedural and substantive
rights and remedies than proceeding in court (such as eliminating the right to a
jury trial)
➢ This may implicate, Model Rule 1.8(h) which prohibits lawyers from “mak[ing] an
agreement prospectively limiting the lawyer’s liability to a client for malpractice
unless the client is independently represented in making the agreement.”
19. Poor Intake Process
• Failing to check for conflicts of interest prior to discussing the matter in more detail.
✓ RPC 1.7: Conflict of Interest– Current Clients
• Starting work before the terms of the engagement are fully documented and agreed to.
✓ RPC 1.2: Scope of Representation; 1.16: Declining or Terminating Representation
• Failing to specify the scope and length of the engagement with thoughtful precision.
19
20. Termination of Engagement Letters
Model Rule 1.16(d): “Upon termination of representation, a lawyer shall take steps to the extent
reasonably practicable to protect a client’s interests, such as giving reasonable notice to the
client, allowing time for employment of other counsel, surrendering papers and property to
which the client is entitled and refunding any advance payment of fee or expense that has not
been earned or incurred.”
A writing documenting the timing and terms of the termination, and the lawyer’s compliance
with the requirements of Model Rule 1.16(d) such as providing the information the client and
successor counsel may need to continue an incomplete matter and an inventory of returned
papers and property is not literally required, but is the better practice for clarity and avoidance
of disputes.
20
21. Importance of Conflict Checks
● Model Rules 1.7-1.11 and 1.18 generally prohibit attorneys from taking on or continuing an
engagement if (among other things) it will be adverse to a current client, if the
“representation…will be materially limited by the lawyer’s responsibilities to another client,
a former client or a third person or by a personal interest of the lawyer,” or if the lawyer has
confidential information from a former or prospective client that could be used against that
former or prospective client in the new representation.
● Attorneys must identify and resolve conflicts of interest prior to entering the attorney-client
relationship.
22. Importance of Conflict Checks (cont’d)
● Model Rule 5.3(a) & Comment [2] require law-firm managers to “make reasonable efforts to
ensure that the firm has in effect measures giving reasonable assurance that lawyers in the
firm conform to the Rules of Professional Conduct.” That includes measures “designed to
detect and resolve conflicts of interest . . . .”
● Best practices use technology for initial conflicts checks and then either conflicts
professionals or questionnaires to other attorneys to catch any conflicts before they arise
● If a conflict exists, a lawyer can take the representation only if all the relevant
circumstances and the possible adverse consequences are fully disclosed and all affected
clients give informed consent, among other requirements listed in Rule 1.7(b)
23. Limiting the Scope of the Engagement
• Model Rule 1.2(c): “A lawyer may limit the scope of the representation if the limitation is
reasonable under the circumstances and the client gives informed consent.
• Informed consent here must involve full disclosure of all the limitations on the scope of the
engagement, their likely practical effects under the circumstances presented or likely to be
presented, and the potential adverse consequences of the limitations if the client agrees to
them. Model Rule 1.0(e).
23
24. Changing Fee Arrangements During
Representation
• Model Rule 1.5(b): “Any changes in the basis or rate of the fee or expenses shall . . . be
communicated to the client.”
• ABA Formal Ethics Opinion No. 11-458:
✓ Periodic, incremental increases in a lawyer's regular hourly billing rates are generally
permissible if such practice is communicated clearly to and accepted by the client at
the commencement of the client-lawyer relationship and any periodic increases are
reasonable under the circumstances.
✓ Modifications sought by a lawyer that change the basic nature of a fee arrangement
or significantly increase the lawyer's compensation absent an unanticipated change
in circumstances ordinarily will be unreasonable.
✓ Changes in fee arrangements that involve a lawyer acquiring an interest in the
client's business, real estate, or other nonmonetary property will ordinarily require
compliance with Rule 1.8(a).
24
25. A Trap for the Unwary: Accounting for Prepaid
Flat Fees
• Model Rule 1.15(c): “A lawyer shall deposit into a client trust account legal fees and
expenses that have been paid in advance, to be withdrawn by the lawyer only as fees are
earned or expenses incurred.”
• But when is a prepaid flat fee “earned”? There is a surprising degree of confusion and
interstate variation in answering this question.
25
26. A Trap for the Unwary: Accounting for Prepaid Flat
Fees (cont’d)
• The answer is very important, because if a lawyer puts earned fees in a client trust account,
she is commingling her own funds with the client’s—a serious disciplinary violation. And if a
lawyer takes a prepaid flat fee into her operating account before it is properly “earned,” then
the lawyer has misappropriated client funds—also a serious disciplinary violation.
• The first thing that should be obvious is that lawyer and client should explicitly agree when a
flat fee is deemed “earned” (in whole or in parts). Otherwise the likely interpretation in a
dispute will be the one most favorable to the client—namely, after all work is complete. The
engagement letter is a good place to do that, and while no writing is required, a writing is
clearly best practice.
26
27. A Trap for the Unwary: Accounting for Prepaid
Flat Fees
• May a lawyer and client agree that a flat fee must be prepaid, and is considered earned
when paid (so that the lawyer can deposit the fee directly In her operating account and take
it into income)?
• Some states consider this arrangement permissible.
• BUT a number of states don’t!
➢ Some states have amended their version of Model Rule 1.15 to preclude treating a
prepaid flat fee as earned when paid
➢ Some states have construed the model version of Rule 1.15 to this effect, or concluded
that such an arrangement is “unreasonable” under Rule 1.5(a) (which forbids
“unreasonable”—or in some states “unconscionable”—fees), or concluded that such an
arrangement unduly burdens the client’s right to discharge the attorney before the
engagement is complete.
27
28. A Trap for the Unwary: Accounting for Prepaid
Flat Fees (cont’d)
➢ Most states that limit treatment of prepaid flat fees appear to allow for agreement that
recognizes part of a prepaid flat fee as earned when defined portions of the
engagement are completed. But most seem to insist that the relationship be roughly
proportional
➢ See, e.g., In re Mance, 980 A. 2d 1196 (D.C. Ct. App. 2009), and authorities cited.
• Bottom line: If you are going to treat a prepaid flat fee as earned at any time before work is
complete, check your jurisdiction’s version of Rule 1.15 and caselaw construing it!
28
29. Litigation Funding – Ethical and Malpractice Issues
● Litigation funding raises certain ethical issues to be navigated
● Model Rule 1.8(f) prohibits payment of legal feels by a third party unless there is informed
consent from the client, there is no interference with the attorney-client relationship (i.e.,
lawyer takes direction only from client) and the information relating to the representation is
protected by Rule 1.6 confidentiality obligations
● Lawyers receiving funding needs to understand who the client is (be aware of whenever
there is a third-party payor), especially if you are repeat player with the funder rather than
the client
30. Litigation Funding (Cont’d)
Potential malpractice risks:
• Client can claim the lawyer is more aligned with the funder than the client, and improperly
served the funder’s interests to the client’s detriment
• Client can claim the lawyer jeopardized the legal funding by failing to comply with the
funding agreement
In terms of recommending settlement, lawyers have to be aware of who will benefit from what
and how things are structured
• Remember who the client is, understand and comply with the funding arrangement make
sure the client understands that arrangement throughout the case and potential case
resolution
• The considerations are similar to those arising in contingency cases (where the lawyer’s
and client’s interests may diverge) and cases involving an insurer (where the insurer’s
and the client’s interests may diverge)
31. Prenuptial Agreement: Can the Monied
Spouse-to-Be Pay the Fees for the Lawyer Representing
the Other Spouse-to-Be?
ABA Model Rule 1.8(f):
A lawyer shall not accept compensation or direction in connection with the representation
of a client from one other than the client unless:
(1) the client gives informed consent;
(2) there is no interference with the lawyer's independence of professional judgment
or with the client-lawyer relationship; and
(3) information relating to representation of a client is protected as required by MR
1.6.
32. Paying Another’s Fees for a Prenup
Comments to Model Rule 1.8 (edited)
Person Paying for a Lawyer's Services
[11] Lawyers are frequently asked to represent a client under circumstances in which a third
person will compensate the lawyer, in whole or in part. The third person might be a relative or
friend, an indemnitor (such as a liability insurance company) or a co-client (such as a corporation
sued along with one or more of its employees). Because third-party payers frequently have
interests that differ from those of the client, including interests in minimizing the amount spent on
the representation and in learning how the representation is progressing, lawyers are prohibited
from accepting or continuing such representations unless the lawyer determines that there will be
no interference with the lawyer's independent professional judgment and there is informed
consent from the client. See also RPC 5.4(c) (prohibiting interference with a lawyer's professional
judgment by one who recommends, employs or pays the lawyer to render legal services for
another).
33. Paying Another’s Fees for a Prenup (cont’d)
Comments to Model Rule 1.8 (edited)
Person Paying for a Lawyer's Services
[12] Sometimes, it will be sufficient for the lawyer to obtain the client's informed consent
regarding the fact of the payment and the identity of the third-party payer. If, however, the fee
arrangement creates a conflict of interest for the lawyer, then the lawyer must comply with
RPC 1.7. The lawyer must also conform to the requirements of RPC 1.6 concerning
confidentiality. Under RPC 1.7(a), a conflict of interest exists if there is significant risk that the
lawyer's representation of the client will be materially limited by the lawyer's own interest in the
fee arrangement or by the lawyer's responsibilities to the third-party payer (for example, when
the third-party payer is a co-client). Under RPC 1.7(b), the lawyer may accept or continue the
representation with the informed consent of each affected client, unless the conflict is
nonconsentable under that paragraph. Under RPC 1.7(b), the informed consent must be
confirmed in writing.
.
34. New Guidance from the ABA on Solicitation
Model Rule 7.3 defines forbidden solicitation:
(a) “Solicitation” or “solicit” denotes a communication initiated by or on behalf of a lawyer or law
firm that is directed to a specific person the lawyer knows or reasonably should know needs
legal services in a particular matter and that offers to provide, or reasonably can be understood
as offering to provide, legal services for that matter.
(b) A lawyer shall not solicit professional employment by live person-to-person contact when a
significant motive for the lawyer’s doing so is the lawyer’s or law firm’s pecuniary gain, unless
the contact is with a
(1) lawyer;
(2) person who has a family, close personal, or prior business or professional relationship with
the lawyer or law firm; or
(3) a person who routinely uses for business purposes the type of legal services offered by the
lawyer.
35. New Guidance from the ABA on Solicitation
(cont’d)
Model Rule 7.3 defines forbidden solicitation (cont’d):
(c) A lawyer shall not solicit professional employment even when not otherwise prohibited by
paragraph (b), if:
(1) the target of the solicitation has made known to the lawyer a desire not to be solicited by
the lawyer; or
(2) The solicitation involves coercion, duress, or harassment.
36. New Guidance from the ABA on Solicitation
(cont’d)
ABA Formal Ethics Opinion No. 501 (2022) offers some clarification on when a third party’s
encouragement of a potential client to retain a particular lawyer is solicitation.
● Rule 8.4 prohibits lawyers from having non-lawyers do for them what they are forbidden from
doing themselves.
● Model Rules 51 and 5.3 require managerial and supervising lawyers in a practice
organization to take reasonable steps to ensure that all lawyers and non-lawyers employed
or retained by the practice organization comply with the lawyers’ ethical obligations under the
Rules of Professional Conduct.
37. New Guidance from the ABA on Solicitation
(cont’d)
ABA Formal Ethics Opinion No. 501 (2022) offers some clarification on when a third party’s
encouragement of a potential client to retain a particular lawyer is solicitation. (cont’d)
● Thus, people who are retained or employed by a lawyer or practice organization can’t
engage in conduct that would be solicitation under Rule 7.3 if the lawyer did it herself.
● BUT “[r]ecommendations or referrals by third parties who are not employed, retained or
similarly associated with the lawyer and whose communications are not directed to make
specific statements to specific potential clients on behalf of a lawyer do not generally
constitute “solicitation” under Rule 7.3.”
38. The Great Staff Resignation – Practicing without an
Administrative Parachute
● Lawyers are ultimately responsible for the representation
● Model Rule 1.1’s requirement of competence extends to technology and other
administrative aspects of practice
● Model Rule 5.3(b) requires attorneys to properly supervise administrative staff (including
new staff and staff who are stepping in to fill other roles)
● Model Rule 5.1(b) requires attorneys to properly supervise junior attorneys who may also
be taking on additional responsibilities
40. About The Faculty
Michelle Gershfeld - MGershfeldlaw@gmail.com
Michelle Gershfeld is a bankruptcy attorney, debt negotiator and personal financial life coach
who advises people who are in debt, or building wealth, by identifying and overcoming
obstacles that lie in their path to securing worry-free, financial wellness. Michelle’s private
practice, Law Offices of Michelle Gershfeld, provides services to clients in financial distress to
create a strategic, customized plan for each unique financial situation. Michelle defends
foreclosures and evictions when necessary, and will assist clients to move forward with
dignity, despite current hardships. Michelle also works with commercial clients to reorganize
outside of a formal bankruptcy filing, which effectively serves businesses at reduced costs.
40
41. About The Faculty
Bernie Burk - bernie.burk@bernieburk.com
Professor Bernard Burk joined the legal academy in 2010, after 25 years in private practice in
San Francisco. He is currently visiting at Penn State Law in University Park, PA. Starting in
July 2022, he’ll be visiting at Seattle University School of Law.
Aspen Publishing recently published his new textbook on legal ethics, entitled Ethical
Lawyering: A Guide for the Well-Intentioned (with Nancy Rapoport of the University of
Nevada, Las Vegas School of Law, and Veronica Finkelstein, Asst. U.S. Attorney for the E.D.
Pa. and adjunct at Drexel University School of Law and Rutgers-Camden). His scholarship
concerns the legal profession, legal ethics and professional conduct, and legal education. In
addition to his teaching and publishing, Prof. Burk engages in consulting and expert witness
work in the areas of legal ethics and professional conduct.
Prof. Burk attended Yale College and Stanford Law School.
41
42. About The Faculty
George Kuney - gkuney@utk.edu
George W. Kuney is a Lindsay Young Distinguished Professor of Law and Director of the Clayton Center for
Entrepreneurial Law at The University of Tennessee College of Law in Knoxville, Tennessee. He holds a J.D.
from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, an M.B.A. from The University of San Diego, and
a B.A. in Economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Before joining the UT faculty in 2000, he was
a partner in the Allen Matkins firm’s San Diego office. Previously he practiced with the Howard Rice and
Morrison & Foerster firms in his hometown of San Francisco, doing litigation and transactional work largely in the
context of business restructuring and insolvency. He teaches business law courses including Business
Associations, Contracts, Contract Drafting, Commercial Law, Consumer Bankruptcy, Debtor-Creditor, Mergers
and Acquisitions, Representing Enterprises, and Workouts and Reorganizations. Kuney has written a number of
books and articles and given presentations about business, contracts, and commercial law and insolvency-
related topics. He advises clients nationwide regarding bankruptcy, restructuring, reorganization, and related
subjects. He is admitted to the bar in California and Tennessee.
42
43. About The Faculty
Gerald Meyer - gmeyer@mololamken.com
Gerald Meyer’s practice focuses on complex business litigation, white collar criminal matters and
investigations, and appellate litigation. He has represented businesses, senior corporate officials, and
individuals in a broad array of subject matters, including securities litigation, class actions, antitrust law,
and constitutional law. He has tried cases to verdict and drafted and argued dispositive, discovery, and
evidentiary motions in trial courts across the country. He has argued appeals before the Seventh Circuit,
and has briefed appeals in the Supreme Court of the United States and numerous courts of appeals.
Before joining MoloLamken, Mr. Meyer was an associate with Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom
LLP in Chicago. He has represented companies and individuals in a wide range of tax planning matters,
including mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, securities offerings, and issues involving tax-exempt
organizations. Mr. Meyer also served as a law clerk to Judge Robert R. Beezer of the United States Court
of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and to Judge G. Steven Agee of the United States Court of Appeals for
the Fourth Circuit.
43
44. About The Faculty
Kathryn Nadro - knadro@sfgh.com
Kathryn (“Katie”) Nadro leads Sugar Felsenthal Grais & Helsinger’s Data Security and Privacy practice.
Katie advises clients on a diverse array of business matters, including data security and privacy
compliance, commercial and business disputes, and employment issues. Katie works with individuals and
businesses of all sizes to craft successful resolutions tailored to each individual matter.
Katie is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and counsels clients on a variety of data
security and privacy issues, including breach response, policy drafting, program management, data
collection, vendor management, and compliance with ever-changing state, federal, and international
privacy law. Katie also has broad litigation experience representing companies and individuals in
contract, non-compete, discrimination, harassment, fiduciary duty, and trade secret litigation in state and
federal court. With a background as both in-house and outside counsel, Katie understands that business
objectives, time, and resources play an important role in reaching a favorable outcome for each client.
44
45.
46. About Financial Poise
46
DailyDAC LLC, d/b/a Financial Poise™ provides
continuing education to attorneys, accountants,
business owners and executives, and investors. It’s
websites, webinars, and books provide Plain English,
entertaining, explanations about legal, financial, and
other subjects of interest to these audiences.
Visit us at www.financialpoise.com
Our free weekly newsletter, Financial Poise
Weekly, updates you on new articles published
on our website and Upcoming Webinars you
may be interested in.
To join our email list, please visit:
https://www.financialpoise.com/subscribe/