Dive into trust account pitfalls as we explore real-life fraud cases, cybersecurity risks, and how mishandled workflows lead to compliance failures. Learn practical safeguards, staff training tips, and best practices to protect your firm’s trust funds - with a fun quiz to test your knowledge.

01:31 Listener Question: Preventing Trust Account Mishaps
01:59 Cybersecurity and Trust Account Safety
05:07 Real-Life Scenarios and Best Practices
08:19 Flat Fees and Trust Account Compliance
18:57 Trust Account Mismanagement
19:44 Importance of Proper Workflow
21:31 Handling Cash in Law Firms
22:46 Billing Errors and Best Practices
25:42 Trust Fund Protocols and Training
27:39 Fraudulent Checks and Money Laundering
28:57 Game Show: Trust Account Scenarios

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this episode we break down the accounting pitfalls law firms face - from IOLTA missteps to messy trust reconciliations.

We explain why early legal-accounting support matters, how to handle credit card fees correctly, and the key practices that keep firms compliant, confident, and profitable.

00:53 Demystifying Accounting Concepts for Law Firms
01:43 Understanding Trust Accounts and IOLTA
02:52 Reconciling Accounts and Compliance
04:49 Importance of Proper Record Keeping
06:44 When to Hire a Legal Accounting Professional
07:53 Common Mistakes in Legal Accounting
12:39 The Value of Specialized Legal Accountants
14:07 Random Conversation and Initial Connection
14:25 Common Mistakes in Legal Accounting
14:52 Challenges with Trust Accounts
17:57 Importance of Proper Documentation
20:34 Credit Card Fees and Client Relations

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

Start the year with smart tax planning for law firms. In this episode, we cover common bookkeeping challenges, goal-setting strategies, and how to prepare for tax season.

We explore entity structure reviews, billing practices, software choices, staff retention, and staying ahead of changing tax rules. Learn how regular check-ins support compliance and financial health.

01:39 Tax Planning for Legal Professionals
02:45 Goal Setting and Forecasting
04:43 Implementing Changes in Practice Management
05:44 Reviewing Financial Structures and Costs
06:27 Tax Strategies and Meeting with Professionals
10:21 Billing Practices and Client Management
12:47 Software and Resource Management
13:36 Reflecting on True Stories and Employee Benefits
14:17 Evaluating Team Meetings and New Perspectives
15:22 Tax Planning and Client Engagement
19:32 Business Planning and Compliance
22:36 Setting Goals and Planning for the Future

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this Best Of episode we revisit our most important insights on avoiding audits in legal and accounting practices. From bar and compliance audits to trust accounting pitfalls, they share practical strategies for clean records, strong workflows, and staying prepared—so firms can protect themselves before problems arise.

00:15 Types of Audits and Their Implications
01:10 Case Study
02:30 Common Audit Issues in Law Firms
04:33 Best Practices for Trust Accounting
06:20 Handling Prior Year Transactions
07:19 State-Specific Audit Requirements
10:37 Preparing for an Audit
15:34 The Importance of Practice Management Software
15:51 Handling Petty Cash: Lynda's Story
16:52 Importance of Workflow in Cash Management
17:26 Using Technology for SOPs and Workflows
17:52 Payroll and Multi-State Compliance
18:45 Avoiding Audits: Best Practices
20:35 Responding to Audits and Legal Requirements
22:55 Documentation and Record-Keeping
23:57 Setting Up Books for New Firms

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Find us on YouTube as well!

If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this episode we explore cybersecurity for legal accountants. We discuss protecting sensitive data, the role of managed IT services, staff training, and real-world security risks - plus practical steps firms can take to strengthen protection, no matter their size.

2Fifteen Tech

Verito

Wizer Security Training

WISP Checklist

01:11 Cybersecurity for Legal Accountants
02:44 Cybersecurity Tools and Practices
03:53 Managed Devices and Remote Management
06:47 VPN Issues with QuickBooks
07:14 Real-Life Cybersecurity Incidents
09:16 Exploring New Cybersecurity Platforms
10:35 Insurance and Compliance Considerations
11:55 Document Security and Password Protection
14:52 AI in Music and Cybersecurity
16:21 Navigating Password Management Challenges
16:52 Solo Practitioners and Cybersecurity
17:28 The Cost of Cybersecurity Breaches
18:05 Protecting Contractors and Global Teams
18:55 Backup Solutions and Their Limitations
19:49 Scams and Security Protocols
20:58 Trust Accounts and Security Measures
25:55 Employee Training and Cybersecurity Awareness
29:29 End-of-Year Business Security Tips

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this episode we explore class accounting and how law firms can use it to gain clearer financial insights. We break down when class accounting makes sense, how to set it up properly, and common pitfalls to avoid - helping firms track revenue and expenses with intention, accuracy, and purpose.

01:03 Class Accounting in Practice
01:52 Class Accounting for Law Firms
03:52 Challenges and Best Practices
05:21 Granular Tracking and Reporting
07:18 Common Mistakes and Solutions
08:31 Final Thoughts on Class Accounting
11:57 The Evolution of Tags
12:14 Class Accounting in Legal Firms
13:57 Practical Applications of Class Accounting
15:39 Challenges and Considerations
17:21 Real-World Examples and Insights

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

To join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this episode we break down the essentials of building and maintaining a strong chart of accounts for law firms.

Learn common COA mistakes, best practices for trust, IOLTA, and equity accounts, and how proper setup supports compliance, reporting, and smoother audits.

00:27 Understanding the Chart of Accounts (COA)
01:02 Importance of Proper COA Setup
01:51 Common COA Mistakes and Solutions
02:19 Handling Trust and Liability Accounts
03:01 Equity Section and Professional Presentation
06:24 Advanced Client Costs and Operating Expenses
08:33 Payroll Systems and Software Integration
12:30 Practice Area Income and Detailed Reporting
14:55 Addressing QuickBooks Payroll and Miscellaneous Expenses
15:11 Challenges in Bookkeeping and Cleanup
17:06 Chart of Accounts for Law Firms
18:55 Reconciling Discrepancies and Transfers
20:08 DIY vs Professional Services
21:22 Setting Up and Managing Chart of Accounts

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

If you want to follow along with Steve’s airstream adventures, as well as Accountants Law Pod updates, be sure to follow us on instagram at Accountants Law Pod.

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this episode we break down when and how to hire for growth in accounting and legal firms. We explore the signs it’s time to bring on help, how to balance cost vs. benefit, and whether to choose contract or full-time staff, as well as how AI is reshaping roles and why culture and client care matter more than ever.

Short, practical, and full of real-world insight for firms ready to scale.

01:13 When is it Time to Hire?
01:57 Outsourcing vs. In-House Hiring
04:35 Delegation Challenges
05:50 Client Face Time and Capacity
07:11 AI and Hiring
13:26 Economic Shifts and Job Security
19:42 Planning for New Hires

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

If you want to follow along with Steve’s airstream adventures, as well as Accountants Law Pod updates, be sure to follow us on instagram at Accountants Law Pod.

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this episode of Accountants Law Pod we pull back the curtain on one of the most anticipated—and often misunderstood—topics in law firm management: year-end bonuses.

From partner distributions to employee bonuses, we explore how thoughtful planning, clear communication with your financial team, and early forecasting can make bonus season a celebration instead of a scramble.

00:54 Partner Bonuses Discussion
01:33 Employee Bonuses and Payroll
02:36 Profit Sharing and Bonus Structures
03:25 Emotional Impact of Bonuses
06:05 Planning Partner Bonuses
07:53 Importance of Recognizing Contributions
13:24 Value of Pay Stubs and Employee Benefits
16:23 Discussing Employee Benefits and Bonuses
16:54 The Importance of Health Coverage
17:32 Generosity and Sustainability in Firms
18:39 Evaluating Bonus Structures
21:12 Creative Bonus Ideas
22:39 Planning and Budgeting for Bonuses

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If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

If you want to follow along with Steve’s airstream adventures, as well as Accountants Law Pod updates, be sure to follow us on instagram at Accountants Law Pod.

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

In this episode we walk you through the ultimate year-end checklist for accounting and law firms.

From tax planning and managing bonuses to reviewing health insurance, they break down the steps every firm should take as the year wraps up. You’ll also hear practical guidance on tidy books, goal-setting, and smart budgeting to set your practice up for a strong start in the new year.

Tune in for timely strategies, helpful reminders, and a roadmap to make your year-end process smoother and more efficient.

01:38 Ultimate Year-End Checklist
03:08 Accounting Tips and Tricks
05:44 Law Firm Year-End Planning
11:59 Health Insurance Challenges
16:43 Vehicle Purchases and Documentation
18:36 Addressing Trust Ledger Issues
19:33 Customizing Checklists for Law Firms
20:34 Year-End Payroll and Tax Preparations
26:43 Setting Goals and Budgeting for the New Year

Be sure to subscribe for more episodes!
Find us on YouTube as well!

If you have questions, topic requests, or guest suggestions you can email us at [email protected] or send us a message through our website, www.accountantslawpod.com

If you want to join us in the Accountants Law Lab, visit our website at www.accountantslawlab.com to sign up!

If you want to follow along with Steve’s airstream adventures, as well as Accountants Law Pod updates, be sure to follow us on instagram at Accountants Law Pod.

Accountants Law Pod is hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart and directed/produced by Teaira Burge and The Proper Trust. Music by ComaStudio from Pixabay - Edited by audiovideo_uk

Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.