Risk Management

The practice of law is stressful. Incorporating sound management procedures into you everyday routine from the time you first begin the practice of law – before the bad habits are learned – is one of the most important ways you can control the level of stress that comes with the occupation. Sound risk management practices can dramatically decrease the possibility of the preventable malpractice claim or grievance. 

The New New York Rules of Professional Conduct

The Canon– A Canon is a simple statement of the goals to which all attorneys aspire

The Ethical Considerations– An Ethical Consideration contains specific examples to which an attorney may turn for guidance in a particular situation

Risk Management – Professional Liability Insurance

Mandatory CLE, effective 1998: MCLE is required for all attorneys.  Click here to view a PDF of mandatory requirements.  This sheet should be circulated throughout the law firm every six months.

Conflicts of Interest

Maintenance of Conflict Procedures by Marion C. Rice, Esq.(PDF)

The Association of the Bar of the City of New York– Formal Opinion 2003-03(PDF)

Sample New Matter Intake form (PDF)

Client Relations

Choosing the client carefully(PDF)

Clients expectations[DR 6-101;7-101;& 7-102;9-101] (PDF)

Statement of Clients Rights and Responsibilities;[22 N.Y.C.R.R.1210.1]

Importance of the clear, unambiguous written letter of engagement [22 N.Y.C.R.R.&1215](PDF)

Sample engagement letter (PDF)

Sample disengagement letter(PDF)

Escrow Account Requirements(PDF)

Withdrawal from Employment[DR 2-110] (PDF)