Accountant Trusted by Law Firms Since 1983

CPA Firm Serving PA, NJ, NY, & DE

Legal Accountant in Fairless Hills

To achieve success, a law firm requires not only a skilled attorney but also a dependable and seasoned accountant. SD Associates, P.C., has legal accountants in Fairless Hills who possess the expertise and know-how to manage all your financial requirements. With more than 35 years of experience, we take pride in serving clients who need a comprehensive accounting firm for their law firm’s finances.

Our services are customized to meet the specific requirements of attorneys who face the intricacies of managing a law firm. We comprehend the challenges of this industry and offer tailored financial solutions that are both economical and compliant with industry standards. Our adept team provides support in accounting, tax preparation, budgeting, and financial planning to assist your business in achieving its financial objectives.

Common Legal Accounting Mistakes

Mishandling trust accounts: Law firms often use trust accounts to store client funds, and it is crucial to manage them accurately. Mishandling trust accounts can result in severe financial repercussions for the firm, including penalties and possible legal action from clients.

Failing to keep accurate records: Inadequate record-keeping practices can adversely affect a firm’s financial well-being. Inaccurate records make it challenging to monitor client payments and maintain balanced accounts, which can cause cash flow problems and the misappropriation of funds.

Not being aware of applicable laws: Regulations governing financial management in law firms can vary across different states. Inadequate comprehension of relevant laws and regulations can severely impact a firm’s finances, resulting in hefty fines or even criminal charges.

Incorrectly identifying income as revenue and vice versa: Although income and revenue are distinct, they are often mistaken for one another. Income refers to the total amount of money earned, whereas revenue is the profit obtained after settling expenses. Misinterpreting these terms can lead to an erroneous financial overview and may result in lost income.

Entering data incorrectly: Data entry errors are among the most frequent accounting mistakes. Even a solitary incorrect digit can disrupt the entire balance sheet, resulting in wasted time and monetary loss for the firm. Additionally, it could also give rise to possible legal problems.

Avoiding professional assistance: Although some law firms may choose to handle their financial management in-house, seeking the help of a professional legal accountant can prove to be invaluable. A competent legal accountant in Fairless Hills can offer expert guidance and ensure the accuracy of all financial records while ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Trust Accounting

Trust accounting is a practice that involves the managing of funds held on behalf of others by legal professionals such as attorneys, accountants, and other fiduciaries. Settlement monies, court fees, advanced charges, and retainer fees are all examples of these funds. These accounts must be managed in accordance with state and federal regulations, which require regular record-keeping, detailed tracking of transactions, timely reporting of any changes or discrepancies, and periodic audits.

SD Associates, P.C. is staffed with seasoned professionals who are proficient in trust accounting procedures and the corresponding legal requirements. We provide thorough trust accounting services, which encompass meticulous record-keeping and precise financial reporting. Our adept team is well-versed in the state and federal regulations, ensuring that your trust accounts are managed in full compliance with applicable laws.

IOLTA Account Management

An IOLTA (Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Accounts) account is a dedicated trust account that segregates client payments from the operational finances of a legal practice. By utilizing an IOLTA, a legal practice can manage finances while safeguarding the interests of its clients.

SD Associates, P.C. recognizes the significance of managing IOLTA accounts accurately and efficiently. Our skilled team has a wealth of knowledge and experience in administering trust accounts for legal professionals. We possess a comprehensive understanding of the regulations that govern such accounts and are well-versed in the required procedures to ensure compliance with those regulations.

Legal Bookkeeping Solutions

Bookkeeping is a crucial aspect of daily operations for any business, but it can pose challenges for legal firms due to the multitude of numbers, accounts, and records that are unique to the legal industry. At SD Associates, P.C., we comprehend this intricacy and offer customized bookkeeping solutions for our clients.

Our experienced team of accountants has a wealth of knowledge in the legal field and can compile financial data into useful reports and analyses that will help drive your practice forward. We can also provide you with a comprehensive set of monthly financial statements, giving you insight into the financial health of your business.

Legal Accounting FAQs

Does the legal structure of my law firm have an impact on my taxes?

Yes. The legal structure of your law firm can have a significant impact on the taxes you pay. It’s important to consult with an experienced legal accounting professional who understands tax laws and regulations, so that you can ensure your business is structured in the most efficient way possible from both a financial and regulatory standpoint.

What should I do if I am being audited?

An audit doesn’t have to be a stressful event. If you are facing an audit, it is important to contact a legal accounting professional who can provide guidance and advice on how to best prepare for the process. An experienced accountant will help ensure that all of your documents are in order and that all relevant information is presented correctly.

Does GAAP apply to law firms?

Privately-held companies are not required to disclose their financial information. However, adhering to GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) may be helpful for law firms that are looking to assess their overall financial health, or if they wish to pursue external financing. Our legal accountant in Fairless Hills can provide advice and guidance on how GAAP applies to your individual business structure.

Contact Our Legal Accountant in Fairless Hills Today

SD Associates, P.C., a Fairless Hills legal accountant, is here to help you navigate the complexities of financial management and taxation. Whether you’re facing an audit or just want to ensure your business structure is optimized for efficiency and profitability, contact us today at (215) 517-5600 to get started. Our experienced team is committed to delivering customized solutions tailored to your law firm.