Accountant Trusted by Law Firms Since 1983

CPA Firm Serving PA, NJ, NY, & DE

Legal Accountant in Langhorne

In order for a law firm to thrive, having a competent and experienced accountant is just as crucial as having a skilled attorney. At SD Associates, P.C., our legal accountants in Langhorne possess the expertise and proficiency to address all your financial requirements. Having been in the business for over 35 years, we take pride in serving clients who demand a comprehensive accounting firm to handle 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: 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: The laws and regulations pertaining to financial management of law firms can differ from one state to another. Ignorance of the relevant laws and regulations can negatively impact a firm’s finances, resulting in expensive fines or even criminal charges.

Incorrectly identifying income as revenue and vice versa: Income and revenue are two different things, but they can be easily confused. Income is the total amount of money coming in, while revenue is the net profit made after expenses have been paid. Misidentifying these two can lead to an inaccurate financial picture and could potentially mean lost income.

Entering data incorrectly: Incorrect data entry is one of the most common accounting mistakes. Even a single incorrect figure can throw off the firm’s entire balance sheet, leading to lost time and money. It could also result in potential legal issues.

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 Langhorne 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.

SD Associates, P.C. has a team of knowledgeable professionals who are proficient in trust accounting procedures and the governing laws. We offer extensive trust accounting services to our clients, including thorough record-keeping and financial reporting. Our team is well-versed in state and federal regulations, ensuring that your trust accounts are managed in compliance with all relevant laws.

IOLTA Account Management

An IOLTA (Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Accounts) account is a trust account established to segregate client payments from the operational finances of a legal practice. An IOLTA account allows a legal practice to manage finances while safeguarding the financial interests of their 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 an integral part of the day-to-day operations for any business, but it can be particularly tricky for legal firms. There are many numbers, accounts and records to keep track of that are unique to the legal industry. At SD Associates, P.C., we understand this complexity and provide tailored bookkeeping solutions for our clients.

Our accomplished team of accountants possesses a vast amount of expertise in the legal arena and can consolidate financial data into useful reports and analyses that will propel your practice forward. We can also furnish you with a comprehensive suite of monthly financial statements, providing you with a clear understanding of the financial condition 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 Langhorne can provide advice and guidance on how GAAP applies to your individual business structure.

Contact Our Legal Accountant in Langhorne Today

SD Associates, P.C. is a Langhorne legal accounting firm that can assist you in managing financial complexities and taxation issues. Whether you require assistance in managing an audit or optimizing your business structure for enhanced efficiency and profitability, contact us today at (215) 517-5600 to begin. Our expert team is dedicated to providing personalized solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs of your law firm.

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