Accountant Trusted by Law Firms Since 1983

CPA Firm Serving PA, NJ, NY, & DE

Legal Accountant in Richboro

A law firm needs more than a great attorney to succeed – it also needs a reliable and experienced accountant. At SD Associates, P.C., our Richboro legal accountants have the knowledge and experience to handle all of your financial needs. With over 35 years in business, we are proud to serve clients who require a full-service accounting firm for their law firm’s finances.

We understand the complexities of running a law firm and have tailored our services to meet the unique needs of attorneys, providing them with personalized financial solutions that are both cost-effective and compliant with industry regulations. Whether you need assistance with accounting, tax preparation, budgeting or financial planning, our highly-qualified staff is here to help your business reach its financial goals.

Common Legal Accounting Mistakes

Mishandling trust accounts: Trust accounts are a standard practice in law firms where client funds are held and must be handled with precision. Inaccurate management of trust accounts can result in severe financial ramifications for the firm, such as penalties and possible legal proceedings from clients.

Failing to keep accurate records: Inadequate record-keeping can have a detrimental effect on a firm’s financial stability. The absence of precise records makes it arduous to monitor client payments and maintain balanced books, which can result in cash flow problems and incorrectly allocated funds.

Not being aware of applicable laws: Laws that apply to law firm financial management can vary from state to state. Failing to understand applicable laws and regulations can have a damaging effect on the firm’s finances, leading to costly fines or even criminal charges.

Incorrectly identifying income as revenue and vice versa: Income and revenue are distinct concepts that can be mistakenly interchanged. Income denotes the total amount of money received, while revenue refers to the net profit after expenses have been deducted. Confusing the two can result in an erroneous financial overview and could potentially lead to income loss.

Entering data incorrectly: Data entry errors are among the most frequent accounting blunders. Even a solitary erroneous figure can disrupt the balance sheet of a firm, resulting in wasted time and money. Additionally, it can lead to possible legal complications.

Avoiding professional assistance: Although some law firms may try to handle their financial management internally, the support of a proficient legal accountant can prove to be indispensable. An accomplished legal accountant in Richboro can offer expert guidance and ensure the accuracy and compliance of all financial records 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.

At SD Associates, P.C., our experienced staff is well-versed in trust accounting procedures and the applicable laws governing them. We provide comprehensive trust accounting services for our clients, including detailed record-keeping and financial reporting. Our team is familiar with the requirements of state and federal regulations, ensuring that your trust accounts are managed in compliance with all 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. acknowledges the significance of precise and efficient management of IOLTA accounts. This is why our accomplished team possesses vast experience and knowledge in managing trust accounts for legal professionals. We have a comprehensive understanding of the governing regulations for such accounts, as well as the essential procedures to ensure full 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 team of experienced accountants possesses extensive knowledge in the legal industry and can consolidate financial data into practical reports and analyses that will facilitate the growth of your practice. Additionally, we offer a comprehensive set of monthly financial statements that provide you with a deep understanding of your business’s financial well-being.

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 Richboro can provide advice and guidance on how GAAP applies to your individual business structure.

Contact Our Legal Accountant in Richboro Today

SD Associates, P.C., a Richboro 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.