Overview  

Proper accounting for attorney trusts is critical in ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards, thereby safeguarding client funds and maintaining the integrity of legal practices. This webinar provides an in-depth examination of the regulatory frameworks that govern the management of attorney trust accounts. We will discuss the primary objectives of trust account management, best practices for maintaining accurate records, and the methodologies for ensuring compliance and preventing common pitfalls. 

Join Jako Liebenberg CA(SA) on the 20th of August 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., as he provides insights into the regulatory frameworks that govern the management of attorney trust accounts and how you can ensure compliance and prevent common pitfalls. 

 Learning objectives  

Attending this webinar will equip you with the following skills: 

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the objectives and scope of managing attorney trust accounts, including their role in maintaining client trust and compliance. 

• Learn about the key principles and standards governing attorney trust accounts, such as those set forth by regulatory bodies and legal ethics boards. 

• Explore the importance of accuracy, transparency, and compliance in trust account management, and understand their significance in maintaining ethical standards. 

• Identify the various stages and procedures involved in managing attorney trust accounts, from account setup and maintenance to reconciliation and reporting. 

• Understand the implications of trust account mismanagement and the role of accountants in ensuring compliance and communicating findings to legal professionals and regulatory authorities. 

Content 

The webinar will cover the following topics: 

• Introduction to Attorney Trust Accounts: 

  • Definition and purpose of attorney trust accounts. 

  • Importance of maintaining client trust and compliance. 

  • Overview of legal and ethical requirements for trust account management. 

• Regulatory Framework and Standards: 

  • Examination of the rules and regulations governing attorney trust accounts. 

  • Understanding compliance requirements and the role of state bar associations. 

  • Review of key standards and guidelines for trust account management. 

• Objectives and Scope of Trust Account Management: 

  • Clarification of the objectives and responsibilities in managing trust accounts. 

  • Discussion on the fiduciary duties of attorneys handling client funds. 

  • Examination of the limitations and risks associated with trust account management. 

• Trust Account Processes and Methodologies: 

  • Overview of the procedures for setting up and maintaining trust accounts. 

  • Explanation of proper record-keeping and reconciliation techniques. 

  • Exploration of best practices for handling deposits, disbursements, and transfers. 

• Reporting and Communication: 

  • Analysis of reporting requirements and best practices. 

  • Understanding the implications of non-compliance and reporting deficiencies. 

  • Discussion on effectively communicating trust account management practices to clients and stakeholders. 

• Professional Ethics and Independence: 

  • Examination of ethical considerations and potential conflicts of interest. 

  • Case studies and examples illustrating ethical dilemmas in trust account management. 

• Emerging Trends and Challenges: 

  • Exploration of current trends and developments in managing attorney trust accounts. 

  • Discussion on challenges faced by accountants and the profession. 

  • Consideration of the impact of technology and data analytics on trust account management. 

Obtaining your CPD certificate 

This training is compliant with the International Education Standard (IES7) issued by the International Federation of Accountants and recognised for CPD by relevant professional bodies including ACCA, CIMA, IAC, IIA, SAICA and SAIPA. 

All attendees are issued with a CPD certificate available in an online profile.   

About the presenter  

Jako Liebenberg CA(SA) 

Jako became a Chartered Accountant and Registered Public Auditor in 2001. His entire career has been in public practice except for a stint as CFO in the Free State Provincial Government from 2010 to 2012. 

Jako consults for clients across South Africa on Accounting Standards and Compliance, Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment, Tax and Business Development. He serves as an assessor in the Free State High Court of Appeals as representative in Public Practice. Jako is also a registered SAICA assessor for Trainees.  

Who should attend? 

The following persons will benefit from attending this webinar: 

• Practising accountants including: CA(SA), Professional Accountant (SA), AGA(SA), FCCA, BAP(SA), BA(SA) and ACCA. 

• Registered auditors. 

• Independent reviewers. 

• Trainee accountants

Price 

• R 450.00 - Online admission - Individual. 

• Group Price 1 - From R337 per person (up to 5 users) 

• Group Price 2 - From R260 per person (up to 10 users) 

• Group Price 3 - From R224 per person (over 11 users) 

Steps to register for the event:  

If you already have a profile, login and register for the webinar. 

If you don’t have a profile, create a free profile then login and register for the webinar. 

Click here to create a free profile (There is no charge to create a profile and gain access to our free Monthly Practice Management Series). 

Click here to find out about the Technical Resource Centre & CPD Subscription options. 

Additional material 

By attending this webinar you will be provided with: 

• A summarised slide presentation. 

• Reference documents and/or course material where available. 

• You can ask questions during the webinar and you will also have access to the presenter after the webinar. 

Corporate training solutions 

At SA Accounting Academy, we recognise the evolving needs of businesses in today's dynamic environment. Beyond our standard webinar offerings, we provide tailored corporate training solutions designed to empower your team with the latest in accounting and professional skills. Whether you're looking for online sessions or face-to-face training, our programs are crafted to ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.  

Drawing inspiration from modern training methodologies, our corporate solutions are interactive, adaptable, and focused on real-world applications. We prioritise hands-on learning, ensuring your team can immediately apply their newfound knowledge in practical scenarios.  

Interested in a bespoke corporate training experience? Reach out to us at [email protected] or call 010 593 0466. Together, let's design a training program that elevates your team's capabilities and aligns with your organisational goals.  

Contact us   

  Have any questions or need any assistance? Contact us today!   

• Online chat through our website.   

• WhatsApp: Start chatting (+27635026114)   

• Phone: 010 593 0466   

• E-mail: [email protected]