Accountants Law Pod™

If you hate numbers, this episode is exactly for you. Sarah Prevost and Steven Libhart make the case that the attorneys and firm owners who avoid their financial reports are the ones who end up in the biggest messes, and that understanding your numbers does not require loving them. The conversation covers KPIs, AI as a financial tool and its very real limitations, partner compensation planning, labor costs, and why your firm administrator is probably making you more money than you realize. 00:31 Why Numbers Matter 01:45 Entrepreneur Mindset Shift 02:28 AI Needs Context 05:14 Garbage In Garbage Out 07:39 KPI Case Study 10:04 Finding the Real Issues 12:55 Hidden Admin Money Leaks 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.

Evergreen retainers are one of the most powerful tools a law firm can use to protect cash flow and reduce accounts receivable headaches — but only when they are set up and monitored correctly. In this episode, Sarah Prevost and Steven Libhart break down exactly what evergreen retainers are, how they work, and the nuances that attorneys, bookkeepers, and accountants need to understand before putting them in place. From engagement letter requirements and bar rules to dispute management, milestone billing, and the tickler system trick. If you work with law firm clients or are an attorney managing your own billing, this one is worth a listen. 00:39 Episode Topic Evergreen Retainers 01:30 Why Evergreens Help Cashflow 04:00 Definition and Simple Example 06:07 Tracking and Tickler Systems 06:49 Client Communication and Budgets 08:46 Disputes and Reconciliation Risks 11:11 Complex Cases and Outside Costs 13:44 Tools Payments and Transparency 15:31 Wrap Up and Call to Action 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes covering law firm bookkeeping, legal tech, and accounting practice tips. 📩 Have a question or topic idea? Email us at [email protected] 🧑‍💼 Join the Accountants Law Lab Mastermind: accountantslawlab.com 🌐 Visit us at accountantslawpod.com 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.

Why do law firms still rely on side spreadsheets? In this episode, Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steven Libhart dig into the real reasons attorneys lean on manual spreadsheets for trust accounting, compensation tracking, and client costs, and what can go wrong when those spreadsheets are riddled with broken formulas, missing data, and no audit trail. The team also gets into data migrations gone wrong, the power of Google Sheets over Excel, MyFirmData as a reporting game-changer, and why asking the right questions at onboarding can save you weeks of cleanup work. 00:52 Why Spreadsheets Persist 02:15 Common Spreadsheet Uses 04:06 Empathy and Client Habits 09:44 Audit Trails and Google Sheets 12:40 When Spreadsheets Help 13:42 Parsing Costs and MyFirmData 17:06 Setup Data and Migration Risks 22:35 Banks Security and Vulnerabilities 25:37 Grid Paper Throwback 26:36 AI Restaurant Story 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes covering law firm bookkeeping, legal tech, and accounting practice tips. 📩 Have a question or topic idea? Email us at [email protected] 🧑‍💼 Join the Accountants Law Lab Mastermind: accountantslawlab.com 🌐 Visit us at accountantslawpod.com Have a spreadsheet story of your own? Drop it in the comments. We would love to hear it. 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.

It's our three-year anniversary and we're kicking off Season 4! In this episode, Lynda, Sarah, and Steve celebrate the milestone and dive into one of the most important things every law firm and accounting practice should be doing right now: the mid-year business review. From checking payroll and 1099s to evaluating your tech stack, forecasting cash flow, and setting financial priorities for the second half of the year, this conversation is packed with practical, timely advice. Plus the team gets into AI, the new QuickBooks interface, and why the human touch still matters more than ever. 00:00 Podcast Anniversary Shoutout 00:35 Meet the Producer Teaira 01:22 Season Four Milestones 03:06 Midyear Review Kickoff 03:42 Client Check-Ins and Cleanup 05:38 Payroll and Tax Estimates 06:15 Software Costs and Tool Audit 07:47 AI Hype and Human Touch 11:28 AI Pitfalls and Verification 17:40 Planning Priorities and Vision 20:07 Hiring Interns and Apprentices 21:10 Cash Flow and Economic Risks 22:46 AR Review and Key Takeaways 23:42 Subscribe and Community Links 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes covering law firm bookkeeping, legal tech, and accounting practice tips. 📩 Have a question or topic idea? Email us at [email protected] 🧑‍💼 Join the Accountants Law Lab Mastermind: accountantslawlab.com 🌐 Visit us at accountantslawpod.com 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.

Sarah is back, and she has a story to tell! Fresh off an unexpected keynote at the Kudo Digital Accounting Conference in Kosovo, Sarah shares what it was like to present to a sold-out crowd on working with US-based accounting firms, complete with surprise keynote status, a massive curved screen, live translators, and an audience that was fully present and phone-free. Lynda and Steve dig into the cultural differences, the energy of a young and engaged crowd, and why going global is more relevant than ever for accounting professionals. A fun, candid episode you won't want to miss. 00:24 Sarah Returns and Kosovo Trip 00:52 Keynote Surprise and Tech Hiccups 02:37 Conference Highlights and Leaders 04:00 Cultural Differences and Translation 05:31 Audience Reactions and Etiquette 08:01 Sold Out Crowd and Media Coverage 09:53 Travel Notes and Local Impressions 10:46 Next Year Plans and Sign Off 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes covering law firm bookkeeping, legal tech, and accounting practice tips. 📩 Have a question or topic idea? Email us at [email protected] 🧑‍💼 Join the Accountants Law Lab Mastermind: accountantslawlab.com 🌐 Visit us at accountantslawpod.com 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 D Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

Here are the updated versions without em dashes: Spotify Description Trust accounting is one of the most compliance-heavy areas in legal bookkeeping, and post-tax season is exactly the right time to audit where things stand. In this episode, Lynda and Steve dig into the common traps law firms fall into with their IOLTA and trust accounts: timing issues with Clio Pay and e-checks, commingling funds (intentional or not), the danger of moving money before it clears, and why switching bank accounts doesn't fix underlying reconciliation problems. They cover the three-way reconciliation that every firm should be doing (bank, billing software, accounting system), how to structure your chart of accounts with proper sub-accounts and a trust suspense account, and what to expect and do if the bar's attorney regulation counsel comes knocking for an audit. Whether you're new to legal accounting or doing a post-tax-season cleanup, this episode is packed with practical guidance on protecting both your clients and your license. Topics covered: IOLTA trust accounting, Clio Pay timing, three-way reconciliation, chart of accounts setup, QuickBooks Online, bar compliance, trust audits, personal injury disbursements, and more. 00:53 Trust Accounting Reset 01:28 Tax Return Reporting 02:27 One File vs Two 03:46 Bar Rules First 05:15 Clio Pay Timing Risks 07:31 PI Checks and Disbursements 11:21 Client Loans and Compliance 13:14 Choosing Legal Software 15:20 Clio vs LeanLaw Workflows 16:09 Spotting Date Errors 16:35 Retainers and Payments 17:30 Three Way Reconciliation 17:59 Account Bucketing Setup 19:06 QuickBooks Lock Feature 20:41 Trust Suspense Accounts 21:53 Reconciliation Misconceptions 22:59 Avoiding Commingling 24:43 Handling Trust Audits 25:53 Cleanup and Opening Balances 28:06 Outsourced Help and Notes 🌐 Website: accountantslawpod.com 💬 Community: accountantslawlab.com 📩 Contact: [email protected] Disclaimer: The content presented in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal, financial, or professional advice.

Your paralegal is great at their job. That is exactly why they should not be doing your books. In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, Lynda and Steve make the case for why assigning bookkeeping to your paralegal is one of the costliest mistakes a law firm can make. From trust account disasters and reconciliation nightmares to payroll privacy risks and bar audit exposure, they break down the real consequences of this all-too-common decision and what to do instead. If you are a paralegal currently doing the books, maybe share this one with your boss... 02:20 Why Paralegals Shouldn't Bookkeep 03:15 Real World Bookkeeping Horror 05:22 Reconciliation and Cleanup Risks 08:24 Payroll Privacy Pitfalls 11:30 Software Integrations Gone Wrong 14:26 Segregation of Duties Matters 18:28 Trust Accounting Audit Readiness 21:11 War Stories From Law Firms 24:51 Key Takeaways and Next Steps 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on legal accounting, trust accounting, law firm bookkeeping, and growing a compliant and profitable law practice. 👉 Join the Accountants Law Lab Mastermind: accountantslawlab.com 🌐 Visit us at: accountantslawpod.com 📧 Submit a topic or question: [email protected] 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.

The future of legal accounting is moving fast and AI is at the center of it. In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, we take an honest and sometimes hilarious look at where AI is actually delivering in legal and accounting workflows, where it is falling short, and what it means for the future of the profession. From trust accounting and docketing to bank feeds, client billing, and the very real risk of skill atrophy, this is a grounded and candid conversation about what is coming and how to stay ahead of it. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on legal accounting, trust accounting, AI in legal tech, law firm bookkeeping, and growing a legal accounting practice. 👉 Join the Accountants Law Lab Mastermind: accountantslawlab.com 🌐 Visit us at: accountantslawpod.com 📧 Submit a topic or question: [email protected] 01:02 AI Takes Center Stage 02:06 Tesla AI Reality Check 03:18 Automation Myths and Trust Recs 04:35 Prompting and App Ecosystems 06:03 QuickBooks AI Skepticism 07:18 Reconciliation Limits and Nuance 09:04 Banks Security and Shifting 10:13 AI in Attorney Billing 12:58 Tool Skills and Hiring Future 15:37 Advisors to Validators 16:18 Multi Business Valuation 17:11 Real Time Accounting 17:31 Legal Data Complexity 18:49 Compliance and Cyber Risk 20:05 Keeping Human Skills 21:40 AI for Firm Operations 23:12 Meeting Analysis Insights 24:42 Curiosity and Marketing 26:20 Frontier With Foundations 28:37 Industry and Banking Shifts 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.

Whether you are an attorney managing your own books or a bookkeeper supporting law firms, the same costly mistakes show up again and again. In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, we break down the most common legal accounting errors they encounter, from unbalanced trust accounts and uncollected AR to bonus checks that bypass payroll and chart of accounts setups that create more problems than they solve. If you want to protect your firm, your license, and your bottom line, this one is worth your full attention. 00:46 Common Trust Accounting Errors 01:39 Reconciling Trust Accounts 02:05 Tracking Trust by Client 03:07 Spreadsheets vs Real Ledgers 04:03 Choosing Legal Billing Software 06:58 Advanced Client Costs Basics 08:12 Hybrid Methods and IRS Rules 10:26 Workflows and Timekeeping 12:36 Year End Chaos and Tax Pain 13:48 Undeposited Funds Chaos 14:34 Benefits That Don’t Fit 15:25 AR Piling Up 17:01 Weekly Reporting Rhythm 18:17 Trust Compliance Reality 22:49 Chart of Accounts Clarity 23:51 Bonus Checks Payroll Trap 25:06 Docketing and Fee Risks 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! 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.

If you’ve ever heard of LEDES billing and thought, “How hard can it be?”… this episode might just save you from a full-blown billing meltdown. In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, we dive into the surprisingly complex (and often frustrating) world of legal electronic billing. From rejected invoices over a single misplaced comma to navigating strict code sets, budgets, and insurance requirements - LEDES billing is truly its own beast. We break down: What LEDES billing actually is (and why it exists) Why it’s more common in larger firms and insurance work The hidden layers: budgets, approvals, and negotiations Common mistakes that can get your invoices rejected The reality of managing receivables, appeals, and follow-ups Why strong workflows (and patience) are non-negotiable How AI tools are helping, and where they’re still falling short Whether you’re a bookkeeper, legal accountant, or firm owner, this episode gives you a real-world look at what it takes to handle LEDES billing and whether it’s a service you actually want to offer. Because in this line of work… precision isn’t optional. 03:16 What Is LEDES Billing 04:31 Codes Formats Rejections 06:05 Budgets Approvals Write Downs 08:59 Workflow Teams Micro Niche 12:13 Code Sets And Support 13:41 Tools Hubdoc Vs QuickBooks 17:46 Pricing Client Intake Tips 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! 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.

What happens when your bookkeeper or accountant quits without notice? In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, Linda, Sarah, and Steve dig into one of the most stressful situations a law firm can face: losing the person who manages the books, trust account, payroll, billing, and financial workflows with no transition plan in place. They discuss the immediate risks to law firms, including trust account exposure, payroll disruptions, lost access to software and banking systems, broken workflows, and the danger of not having proper SOPs, offboarding processes, or oversight in place. They also explore why this role is far more valuable than many firms realize, why legal accounting should be treated as a strategic relationship rather than a low-cost transaction, and how law firm owners can protect themselves before a crisis happens. If you are an attorney, law firm owner, legal bookkeeper, or legal accountant, this episode is a powerful reminder to build systems before you need them. 01:17 Why They Quit 03:10 Immediate Access Lockdown 04:54 First Financial Triage 05:32 Fraud Warning Story 08:19 Controls And Transparency 10:53 Offboarding And Benefits 11:30 Get Outside Help Fast 11:56 Check Your Admin Ownership 12:22 Process Audit And Next Steps 13:08 Lock Down Bank Access 13:58 Stabilize Billing Cash Flow 14:39 Outsourcing Mindset Shift 15:50 Reconstruct After Sudden Exit 16:28 SOPs Data Security Risks 18:39 Regain Records Start Fresh 19:31 Backup Plans Extra Eyes 22:04 Owner Communication Lines 23:26 Value Over Cheap Tools 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! 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.

Client Ledger Cleanup Hacks for Law Firms: Fixing Messy Books, Trust Issues, and IOLTA Risks Cleaning up messy law firm books can feel like solving a puzzle with missing pieces - but there’s a method to the madness. In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, we break down practical, real-world strategies for tackling client ledger cleanup in law firms. We walk through how to approach even the most chaotic books with clarity. Starting with discovery, setting expectations, and prioritizing high-risk areas like trust accounts and IOLTA compliance. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to approach legal bookkeeping cleanup like a structured puzzle Why discovery and root-cause analysis matter before making changes How to prioritize trust/IOLTA cleanup and reduce compliance risk What to do with stale balances like payroll liabilities, shareholder loans, and uncleared checks How to “follow the money” to uncover errors and inconsistencies Tips for handling data migration issues with tools like Clio and bank feeds How to use client subledgers and an “unknown client” bucket to reconcile transactions Why locking periods is critical to prevent duplicate entries When to involve tax professionals for prior-year corrections How to use checklists to scope, price, and execute cleanup projects efficiently Whether you’re a bookkeeper, accountant, or law firm owner, this episode will help you turn messy books into clean, compliant systems without opening Pandora’s box. 00:27 Why ledger cleanup matters 00:47 Closet cleanup to puzzle mindset 02:01 Selling the end picture 03:47 Start with chart of accounts 04:28 Root causes and tough questions 05:17 Trust cleanup and old balances 07:39 Stale items and clearing accounts 08:52 Data migration and rolling back 10:56 Stop the bleeding with monthly reviews 11:47 Missing credit cards and tax impact 12:34 Overpaid Tax Traps 13:37 Bank Feed Reversal Mess 14:50 Client Subledgers Strategy 16:45 Follow The Money 18:09 Undeposited Funds Explosion 20:23 Cleanup Checklists And Quotes 21:30 Set Timelines And Boundaries 22:39 Why Fix It Now 23:26 Second Eyes Not AI 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! 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.

With QuickBooks Desktop support ending in 2026 and growing frustration around QuickBooks Online, many law firms are asking the same question: What are the best accounting software alternatives for law firms? In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, we break down the reality of switching accounting systems and what law firms need to know before making a move. From reporting limitations and payroll issues in QuickBooks Online to the growing interest in alternatives like Xero, Clio Accounting, and MyCase, we explore the pros, cons, and risks behind each option. We also dive into how your accounting software impacts far more than bookkeeping—including financial reporting, KPIs, budgeting, compliance, trust accounting, and long-term firm growth. If you're considering moving away from QuickBooks or evaluating legal accounting software, this episode will help you make a more informed decision and avoid costly mistakes. In This Episode, We Cover: • Why QuickBooks Desktop is being phased out (2026) • Common frustrations with QuickBooks Online for law firms • Pros and cons of all-in-one tools like Clio Accounting and MyCase • Why many all-in-one legal tools lack flexibility and scalability • How software choice affects law firm growth and financial visibility • Why Xero is emerging as the strongest QuickBooks alternative • When larger firms may need more advanced accounting systems • The importance of proper chart of accounts by practice area Whether you’re a law firm owner, legal bookkeeper, CPA, or legal accounting professional, this episode will help you navigate your options and choose the right system for your firm’s future. 01:03 QBO Alternatives Setup 01:47 Desktop Sunset Reality 03:13 Clio Accounting Limits 05:15 Xero as Top Pick 07:49 All in One vs Flexibility 09:38 Why People Quit QBO 12:00 Migration Data Headaches 13:56 Timing and Adoption Risks 14:46 Still Like QuickBooks 15:24 Switching From QuickBooks 16:17 User Roles And Privacy 17:43 Hiring And Talent Pool 18:14 Stop Cheap Software Picks 19:21 Receptionist Doing Books 21:27 Entity Growth And COA 23:17 Practice Management ROI 24:41 Starting Firms Right 26:58 All In One Tradeoffs 29:14 Best Long Term Options Be sure to subscribe for more episodes! Find us on Spotify and 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.

How will artificial intelligence reshape the courtroom and the legal profession? In this episode, we speak with U.S. Magistrate Judge Maritza Dominguez Braswell (District of Colorado) about the rapidly evolving role of AI in courts and the broader legal industry. Judge Braswell shares insights from launching the Judicial AI Consortium, a national judges-only forum focused on responsible AI adoption in the judiciary, and discusses her AI Brief newsletter, which helps judges and court staff stay informed about emerging AI tools and risks. We explore key issues surrounding AI in legal practice, including AI hallucinations, disclosure challenges, confidentiality concerns, bias risks, and how courts are beginning to address AI-generated content in legal filings. Judge Braswell also introduces her practical “AI sandwich approach," where humans begin and end the legal work while AI supports the middle of the process, helping legal professionals use AI responsibly without compromising ethical standards. The conversation also covers: • AI risks in legal research and court filings • Ethical considerations for attorneys using AI tools • Training needs for lawyers and judges as AI adoption grows • Access-to-justice opportunities created by AI technology • The future of AI inside the courtroom For attorneys, legal professionals, and those working in the legal accounting and law firm ecosystem, this discussion offers an important perspective on how technology is changing the legal landscape and what professionals must understand to stay prepared. Learn more about the Judicial AI Consortium (JAIC) 00:46 Meet Judge Braswell 02:13 Her AI Work and Consortium 04:42 AI Brief Newsletter Audience 05:36 Courtroom AI Guidance 07:46 Disclosure and Hallucinations 10:08 Sandwich Approach Framework 11:54 Human Connection and Access 15:19 Security Risks and Job Shifts 20:57 AI in Court Live Research 23:25 Leveling the Playing Field 26:35 Teaching AI and Critical Thinking 27:59 Critical Thinking Checks 28:17 Legal Design Sprint Skills 28:56 Where to Learn AI 31:56 Personal Practice Ideas 33:17 Workplace Safety Guardrails 36:05 Small Use Cases First 36:39 Beyond Chatbots Tools 37:31 Redacting in NotebookLM 38:25 Peer Sharing and Prototyping 39:49 AI for Judges Consortium 42:28 AI Is Here to Stay 44:35 Limitations and Getting Better 46:10 Creative Family Use Stories 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! 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.

Small law firms often rely on spreadsheets and patchwork processes to manage their finances, but that approach rarely scales. In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, we discuss the bookkeeping strategies law firms need to support growth, improve cash flow, and prepare for long-term success. The conversation explores why spreadsheets create risk, especially for trust accounting, and why investing early in the right technology stack can transform a firm’s financial operations. We walk through the essential systems every firm should implement, including a general ledger, practice management software, and merchant services that help firms get paid faster. We also share practical advice on chart of accounts setup, financial statements, KPIs, and how outsourced accounting professionals can help law firms build reliable financial workflows. From engagement letters and SOPs to budgeting and managing scope creep, this episode offers a roadmap for both law firms and legal bookkeepers looking to create sustainable, scalable systems. If you want your firm’s finances to support growth, not hold it back, this episode is for you. 01:35 Why Strategy Matters 02:35 Exit Plans and Growth 05:04 Ditch the Spreadsheets 06:05 Core Software Stack 08:21 Trust Accounting Risks 09:00 Steve’s Setup Checklist 11:26 Planning Your Work Year 12:28 Engagement Letters Matter 12:50 Outsource Accounting Help 13:02 Billing Models and Cash Flow 13:43 Get Paid Faster Systems 14:04 KPIs and Realization Rates 14:29 Software Setup Growing Pains 15:11 Track Practice Profitability 15:48 Financial Statements Basics 16:29 Client Education Touchpoints 18:18 Niche Down in Legal 19:24 Value Beyond Data Entry 21:51 Fixing Broken Workflows 23:17 Modernize for Growth Mergers 24:52 Choosing Clients and Rates 26:24 Goals Personal and Business Subscribe for more conversations on legal accounting, bookkeeping for law firms, and trust accounting compliance. Find us on Spotify and Google Podcasts 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 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.

We dive into the world of law-firm business coaches - hot takes and hard truths. From confusing reports and costly programs to chart-of-accounts chaos, we break down red flags, what good coaching really looks like, and why clean books, clear goals, solid pricing, and strong systems matter long before you scale. 02:52 Coaches and Report Requests 03:30 Rainmaker and CFO Labels 05:34 Why Firms Hire Coaches 09:58 When Coaches Add Value 12:08 Hot Tip Paralegals and Books 13:56 Growth Needs Process 15:15 Better Margins Not Leads 16:20 Coach Requires Participation 17:49 Plans Payroll Accountability 19:37 Clean Books First 22:05 Pricing Before Hiring 22:48 Marketing Shifts With AI 23:41 Billboards And Exposure 25:36 Ready For A Coach Be sure to subscribe for more episodes! Find us on Spotify and Google Podcasts 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.

Outsourced accounting helps law firms stay focused, cut costs, and stay compliant - especially with trust accounting. We cover spotting workflow red flags, fixing cash-flow confusion, planning for taxes and payroll, and using KPIs to guide smarter decisions. Strong financials fuel growth, modernization, and even exit planning. 01:08 Outsourced Accounting for Law Firms: Why It Matters 02:34 Outside Perspective & Delegating the Right Work 06:00 Pricing, Value, and the ‘Show Us the Books’ Reality Check 08:13 Outsourcing vs In‑House: Focus, Cost Savings, and Billing Pitfalls 10:50 The Elephant in the Room: Trust Accounting & Compliance Oversight 12:27 Settlement Disbursements: Slowing Down to Avoid Trust Mistakes 14:37 ‘Where Did All My Money Go?’ Cash Flow, Liabilities, and Year‑End Confusion 17:49 Advisory Support: Budgeting, Runway Planning, and Not Overspending for Taxes 21:48 KPIs That Drive Growth: Marketing Spend, Workflow, and Modernizing to Scale/Exit Listen to Danielle's episode here: https://youtu.be/uUbuIvuAg0Y?si=Zs27vzuhdMd1FtzK 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.

In this episode, we break down common attorney compensation models—including “eat what you kill,” flat fee structures, and performance-based pay—exploring the pros, cons, and real-world challenges firms face when implementing or transitioning models. 03:15 Attorney Compensation Models Overview 03:44 Eat What You Kill Model 04:23 Flat Fees and Other Compensation Models 05:47 Challenges with Compensation Models 16:10 Generational Differences in Compensation 18:00 AI and Future of Work 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! 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 pros and cons of today’s leading legal accounting tools—Clio, LeanLaw, CosmoLex, MyCase, and PracticePanther. We compare features, pricing, user experience, and explore how each integrates with QuickBooks. Do you agree with our decisions? How would you fill out your own Software Showdown bracket? We want to hear your thoughts! 02:05 Transition to Legal Accounting Software 02:47 10-99 Forms and Client Issues 03:44 Software Showdown Introduction 05:59 Trust Books Overview 09:04 Lean Law Overview 16:59 Clio vs. CosmoLex 18:40 Diving into Software Usability Issues 19:33 CosmoLex: The Best All-in-One Solution? 21:03 The Pros and Cons of Clio 29:20 Comparing My Case and Practice Panther 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! 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.

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 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! 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 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! 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 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! 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 Study02:30 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 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! 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 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! 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

In this episode we unpack the often-confusing world of business structures. From LLCs to S-Corps, they explore how each entity works, when it makes sense to switch, and the financial ripple effects those decisions can create. We break down key considerations like payroll setup, salary versus bonuses, and the compliance requirements business owners frequently overlook. Along the way, they emphasize the importance of strategic planning and partnering closely with tax professionals to ensure both your business and personal finances stay aligned. Whether you're choosing your first business structure or re-evaluating your current one, this episode offers practical insight, clear explanations, and the guidance you need for confident decision-making. 02:33 Understanding LLC Structures 03:05 Tax Implications and Professional Advice 06:30 Payroll Setup and Best Practices 09:54 Choosing the Right Payroll Provider 12:36 Switching to an S-Corp: Timing and Draws 14:19 Understanding Paycheck Regularity and IRS Expectations 14:32 Bonus vs. Regular Pay: Strategic Considerations 15:17 Tax Strategies for High Earners and Boutique Firms 16:16 Compliance and Strategic Planning in Payroll 18:04 LLC vs. S Corp: Tax Implications and Structures 19:13 The Complexity of C Corporations 21:51 Importance of Operating Agreements and Key Person Insurance 24:45 Exit Strategies and Scalability 26:02 Engaging with Tax Professionals 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.

Law firms thrive on smart budgeting. In this episode, we cover how to build a realistic budget, manage fixed and variable costs, plan for estimated taxes, and use tools like Clio to keep finances on track. Plus: practical tips for forecasting, overhead, and long-term financial discipline. 00:28 The Importance of Budgeting for Lawyers 01:51 Realistic Budgeting and Overhead Costs 03:21 Starting Out: Essential Expenses 05:44 Software and Tools for Budgeting 07:57 Planning for Taxes 09:50 Setting Financial Goals and Cash Flow Management 16:32 Choosing the Right Software 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.

California’s bar just tightened its compliance rules, and the fallout is real. In this episode, we break down the surprising results of a statewide compliance test—trust account errors, missing three-way reconciliations, and more. Learn what law firms must fix now, the tools that help, and why these rules could soon impact firms across the country. 00:59 Scary Changes in California Bar Rules 01:30 Compliance Challenges in Law Firms 02:50 Self-Assessment and Beta Testing 03:40 Non-Compliant Trust Account Journals 05:27 Client Notification and Dormant Accounts 09:44 Attorney Supervision and Training Issues 10:22 Contingency Firms and Fee Calculations 12:46 Handling Disputes and Documentation 13:49 Trust Accounting Policies and Practices 15:24 Self-Assessment and Compliance Reviews 16:45 Software and Reconciliation Challenges 17:56 Fraud Prevention and Oversight 19:29 Compliance Tools and Best Practices 20:46 California Bar Compliance and Adjacent StatesState Bar Launches Mandatory Client Trust Account Compliance Reviews 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.

In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, Steve and Sarah dive into essential cash flow strategies designed specifically for law firms. They unpack how accurate billing, regular financial reviews, and automated systems can improve stability and planning. From managing receivables to balancing marketing budgets and contingency fees, this discussion offers actionable steps for building a healthier, more predictable cash flow. 00:37 Cash Flow Strategy for Lawyers 01:20 Simplified Cash Flow Description 02:37 Key Cash Flow Management Tips 04:15 Importance of Software in Cash Flow 09:00 Billing and Follow-Up Best Practices 13:48 Cash Flow Challenges in Contingency Firms 17:46 Billing Strategies for Attorneys 18:39 Understanding Cash Flow Statements 19:44 Key Financial Metrics for Law Firms 20:32 Planning for Year-End Expenses 25:22 The Importance of Marketing in Cash Flow 29:15 Simplifying Cash Flow Management 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.

In this episode, we sit down with Danielle Hendon of Four Corners CFO to unpack the true role of a CFO in law firms. From cash flow and bonus planning to capacity-based budgeting, Danielle shares her “Reveal Framework” for creating sustainable profitability and smarter financial strategy. 00:37 Introducing the Guest: Danielle Hendon 00:57 Understanding the Role of a CFO in Law Firms 01:26 Challenges with Bookkeeping and Clearing Accounts 03:16 Balancing the Balance Sheet and P&L 03:57 Cash Flow Management and Forecasting 12:03 The Reveal Framework for Financial Management 23:09 Strategic Spending and Cash Management 25:29 Understanding Lines of Credit 25:48 Smart and Strategic Spending 27:04 Prepayments and Tax Strategies 27:59 Maximizing Tax Deductions 29:55 Investing in Your Team 32:38 Compensation Models and Bonuses 39:40 Coaching vs. CFO Services Danielle Hendon and 4Corners CFO 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.

In this episode of the Accountants Law Pod, we dive into the highlights of ClioCon 2025, one of the most influential events in the legal industry. We share key takeaways from this year’s conference, from groundbreaking tech innovations to the evolving relationship between law firms and accounting professionals. Tune in as we reflect on the sessions, speakers, and connections that stood out — and discuss how ClioCon continues to shape the future of legal practice management, client service, and financial operations. ClioCon 2025 Opening Keynote with Jack Newton: The Future of Legal Work, Unveiled 00:36 ClioCon Conference Overview 01:33 AI Innovations at ClioCon 02:12 Vincent and Work: Core Features 03:58 Legal Research and Case Management 07:08 Clio Grow and Client Screening 09:29 Energy Concerns and AI Infrastructure 13:18 Future of Legal Practice with AI 15:51 Emotional Keynotes and Personal Stories 17:16 Inspiring Story of Change and Redemption 17:58 The Human Element in AI 19:20 Clio Accounting Updates 20:56 Challenges in Building a GL 21:58 Exciting AI Developments in Legal Tech 23:42 Product Lab Insights 25:43 Backup Solutions for Legal Software 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.

Ghosted by a client? You’re not alone. In this Best Of episode, Sarah, Lynda, and Steve share real stories and smart strategies for handling unresponsive clients, setting boundaries, and keeping communication clear and professional. 01:22 Main Topic: Being Ghosted by Clients 03:12 Strategies to Handle Client Ghosting 05:25 Challenges and Real-Life Examples 09:52 Professionalism and Client Communication Be sure to subscribe for more episodes! Find us on Spotify and Google Podcasts 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.

Discover how financial forecasting can future-proof your law firm. Hosts Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart discuss tax planning, budgeting, seasonal trends, and AI tools for forecasting. Learn strategies for continuity, growth, and smarter decision-making. 02:39 Financial Forecasting and Business Planning 03:26 Importance of Forecasting and Tax Planning 08:55 Exit Strategies and Business Continuity 12:44 AI in Business Forecasting 18:17 The Rise of AI Companions 20:34 Financial Planning Tools and Their Limitations 21:54 The Importance of Accurate Data 24:18 Evaluating Marketing and Advertising Spend 30:04 Seasonality and Marketing Strategies 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! 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.

💼 Accuracy in billing isn’t optional—it’s essential. In this episode, we cover common pitfalls, smarter tracking, and tools to keep law firms profitable & trusted. 🎧 00:50 Listener Question: Settlement Fund Error 04:01 Explaining Qualified Settlement Funds (QSF) 04:55 Listener Questions: Conflict Checks 07:53 Importance of Billing Accuracy 08:40 Best Practices for Billing in Law Firms 11:17 Software Tools for Billing and Time Tracking 14:07 Communication and Trust in Client Relationships 15:15 Trust Account Management Challenges 15:58 Importance of Accurate Billing 18:26 Handling Client Costs and Expenses 20:37 Billing Processes and Client Communication 26:20 Common Billing Mistakes and Risks 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! 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.

Best Of: Learn how KPIs drive law firm success. Sarah and Steve share practical tips to track growth, performance & profitability. 01:43 Introduction to KPIs for Legal Practices 03:18 Client Development and Growth KPIs 06:44 Client Retention and Referral Strategies 14:59 Efficiency and Productivity KPIs 17:48 Tracking Time and Email Management 18:31 Implementing Metrics and Tools 19:16 Charting Software and KPI Involvement 21:59 Key Metrics for Law Firms 23:37 Client and Employee Satisfaction 24:12 Open and Closed Matters 25:01 Adapting to Market Changes 26:32 Trust Ledger Balance 27:48 Implementing KPIs Effectively 29:06 Celebrating KPI Successes 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.

Discover the best law firm billing software options and learn how to choose the right solution for trust management, compliance, and efficiency. 00:41 Introduction to Law Firm Billing Software 02:07 Key Features to Consider in Legal Accounting Software 03:32 Listing Popular Legal Billing Software 05:55 Challenges in Adopting New Software 08:32 All-in-One vs. Ecosystem of Platforms 12:45 Importance of Customizable Reports and Permissions 14:20 Challenges in Software Acquisition 14:34 User Interface Importance 14:58 Vendor Interactions and Support 15:31 Choosing the Right Software 17:43 Practice Area Considerations 26:07 Software Trials and Demos 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.

In this episode of Accountants Law Pod, our hosts sit down with Emery Wager, from Confido Legal, a payment processing platform designed exclusively for law firms. Together, they explore the complex world of legal payments and how technology is reshaping the way firms manage transactions. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The origin story of Confido and how it’s grown into a trusted payment solution for law firms. Why payment processing for attorneys comes with unique compliance and regulatory challenges. How features like split payments, digital disbursements, and AI-supported fraud prevention give law firms an edge. The role of cutting-edge security in protecting client funds. How client-focused design is simplifying billing and boosting firm efficiency. A sneak peek into Confido’s future enhancements for the legal industry. Whether you’re an accountant, bookkeeper, or attorney, this conversation sheds light on how payment innovation can reduce risk, improve compliance, and create a smoother client experience. 🎧 Tune in to hear Emery’s journey, the tech behind Confido, and practical insights for law firms navigating today’s financial landscape. Resources from this episode: Chargebacks for Law FirmsState By State Guide to SurchargingState By State Guide to Disbursing Funds Electronically 00:32 Special Guest Introduction: Emery 01:10 Emery's Background and Confido Legal 04:02 Client-Focused Approach and Customer Service 08:19 Navigating Payment Processing for Law Firms 12:39 Challenges and Solutions in Payment Systems 17:22 Fraud Prevention and Security Measures 19:42 Innovations in Payment Processing 26:56 Discussing Pricing and Payment Collection 27:33 Evergreen Retainers in Family Law 28:27 Weekly Billing Practices 28:52 Merchant Services and Fees 35:07 Security and Fraud Prevention 43:55 Future of AI in Legal Payments 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.

Understanding Advanced Client Costs: A Deep Dive In this episode of the Accountants Law Pod, Sarah and Steve unpack the complexities of advanced client costs (ACC) in law firms. 💡 What You’ll Learn: The difference between hard costs vs. soft costs Best practices for categorizing and recording expenses IRS guidelines every firm should know Internal controls to prevent costly mistakes Why communication between attorneys, paralegals, accountants, and tax preparers is key Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just getting started in legal accounting, this episode will help you manage ACC with clarity, compliance, and confidence. 01:01 Advanced Client Costs Overview 01:47 Handling Advanced Client Costs 03:40 Soft vs. Hard Costs 05:18 Tax Implications and Best Practices 15:00 Internal Controls and Approval Processes 17:51 Common Mistakes and Pitfalls 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! 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.

Discover the pros and cons of alternative banking for law firms—compliance, FDIC, service, and tips to choose the right fit. 02:04 Introduction to Alternative Banking Options 02:36 Experiences with Non-Brick-and-Mortar Banks 03:19 Trust Accounting and Bar Requirements 04:05 Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Banks 06:06 Security and FDIC Insurance 12:58 Customer Service and Jurisdictional Rules 14:58 Future of Banking and Changing Practices 17:07 Customer Service Challenges in Online Banking 17:42 Specialized Banking for Lawyers 18:40 Relay Bank and Employee Credit Cards 21:40 The Importance of Customer Service in Banking 24:06 Password Issues and Customer Service Frustrations 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.

Join our hosts as they unpack the shift many law firms are making from QuickBooks Desktop to modern, cloud tools like QuickBooks Online. They cover why firms are moving, what makes migrations tricky (hello, legacy data), and how to plan a smooth cutover—without losing your audit trail or your mind. You’ll learn: Where Desktop falls short for today’s remote, integrated workflows How to scope a migration (what history to keep, what to archive) Data pitfalls to watch: corrupted files, class/job mapping, custom fields, IOLTA nuances, and attachment handling A practical prep list: cleanup, cutover date, sandbox testing, and training When to DIY vs. bring in a migration partner—and how to brief them 00:24 QuickBooks Desktop: A Legacy Software 01:15 Challenges with QuickBooks Desktop 02:34 Transitioning to QuickBooks Online 04:40 Data Migration Complexities 11:11 The Evolution of QuickBooks 14:32 A Troublesome QuickBooks File 14:56 The Importance of Data Backup 15:40 Community Knowledge Sharing 16:11 Challenges with Desktop and Online Integration 16:39 Migrating Data and Ensuring Accuracy 18:31 Starting Fresh with New Files 22:38 Converting to Different Ledger Systems Be sure to subscribe for more episodes! Find us on Spotify and Google Podcasts 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.

In this episode, Lynda, Sarah, and Steve dive deep into the nuanced world of hiring for law firms and accounting practices. They explore essential questions like: Should you hire a part-time contractor or a full-time employee? How do you balance financial cost with cultural fit? When is the right time to bring someone on board? You’ll also hear a thoughtful discussion about: The pros and cons of automation vs. human support How to protect sensitive client data when outsourcing Tips for creating a smooth and secure onboarding experience Why treating employees like customers is the key to retention Whether you’re expanding your firm or just beginning to build your team, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world examples to help you make hiring decisions with confidence and clarity. 01:50 Smart Hiring for Law Firms 03:04 Challenges in Hiring and Delegation 06:11 Cost Considerations in Hiring 12:16 Contract vs. Direct Hire 15:25 Offshoring and International Hiring 17:16 Facing the Fear of Hiring 18:01 The Importance of Cultural Fit 18:58 Contract vs. Full-Time Hiring 21:54 Challenges of Global Hiring 23:01 Treating Your Team as Customers 24:12 The Cost of Replacement 24:58 Navigating Mistakes and Learning 30:08 Protecting Client Data 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.

Hey there, and welcome back to The Accountants Law Pod! Our team is taking a short summer break to rest, recharge, and maybe enjoy a few umbrella drinks. In the meantime, we're revisiting some of our most-loved episodes in this special Best Of series. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or diving back in for a refresher, we hope you enjoy—and we’ll be back with brand new episodes soon! Three-way reconciliation got you sweating? You’re not alone. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the chaos (and importance) of trust accounting. From client mix-ups to compliance missteps, they share real stories, expert advice, and practical tips for getting it right—every single time. 03:21 Triple Checking and Three-Way Reconciliation 05:09 Trust Account Challenges and Solutions 11:06 Banking Issues and Recommendations 18:25 Client Communication and Project Management 20:56 Challenges in Project Timelines 21:04 Importance of Client Communication 21:48 Access to Financial Information 22:49 Common Financial Mistakes 23:28 Multi-Entity and Payroll Complexities 24:29 The Role of Compliance 25:21 Trust Account Management 29:41 Human Touch in Financial Oversight 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.

Hey there, and welcome back to The Accountants Law Pod! Our team is taking a short summer break to rest, recharge, and maybe enjoy a few umbrella drinks. In the meantime, we're revisiting some of our most-loved episodes in this special Best Of series. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or diving back in for a refresher, we hope you enjoy—and we’ll be back with brand new episodes soon! Are you charging what you're really worth? In this powerful episode, Lynda and Sarah unpack the mindset shifts accountants need to confidently price their services—especially when working with attorneys. From navigating inflation to communicating value, this conversation is your permission slip to raise your rates and stop second-guessing your worth. 00:43 Discussing Pricing Mindset 09:17 Evaluating Client Relationships 12:44 The Role of Accountants in Client Success 16:04 The Puzzle of Specialization 16:31 Valuing Your Expertise 17:08 Effective Communication Strategies 18:15 Pricing and Compensation 19:34 Building Confidence and Courage 20:26 The Importance of Contracts 21:28 Continuous Learning and Support 29:13 Navigating Inflation and Costs 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.

Hey there, and welcome back to The Accountants Law Pod! Our team is taking a short summer break to rest, recharge, and maybe enjoy a few umbrella drinks. In the meantime, we're revisiting some of our most-loved episodes in this special Best Of series. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or diving back in for a refresher, we hope you enjoy—and we’ll be back with brand new episodes soon! Tax season stress, shoebox clients, and outdated spreadsheets—oh my! In this Best Of episode, we dive into how accounting pros can transform legal practices with smarter workflows, trust compliance, and tech-driven efficiency. Tune in to learn how specialized support leads to streamlined operations, better goal-setting, and real cost savings for law firms. 01:54 Revolutionizing Legal Accounting 04:36 The Importance of Goal Setting 06:32 Operational Tweaks and Efficiency 07:56 Specialized Accounting for Law Firms 12:33 Compliance and Trust Accounts 14:36 Reconciling Trust Accounts 14:53 Software and Spreadsheets 15:36 Handling Client Costs 16:46 Entity Structure and Tax Strategies 20:03 Specialized Workflows for Law Firms 22:26 Embracing Technology and Automation 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.

In this episode, Sarah and Steve dive into one of the most critical (and often overlooked) tools for fraud prevention in law firms: Positive Pay. Sarah and Steven take the reins and get real about the risks law firms face and how Positive Pay can serve as a financial fortress. They unpack the benefits, challenges, and day-to-day realities of implementing Positive Pay, especially when managing both operating and trust accounts. From the importance of data accuracy to working hand-in-hand with your bank, this episode sheds light on how a little extra effort can lead to major cost savings and stronger financial security. Whether you're new to the concept or looking to tighten up your internal controls, this conversation is packed with practical insights and straight talk about keeping your clients' funds—and your firm—safe. 03:13 Managing Positive Pay for Law Firms 05:51 ACH and Check Fraud Prevention 08:38 Practical Tips and Real-Life Examples 21:29 Workflow and Security Protocols 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.

What’s the secret to a law firm that thrives—not just survives? In this episode, we sit down with industry veterans Roxanne Jensen and Bill Horton from EvolveLaw to tackle the big-picture strategy behind successful firms. From rate setting to succession planning, AI to annual bonuses, this conversation is packed with hard-won wisdom and forward-thinking advice. Whether you're a managing partner or a bookkeeper supporting one, this episode will change the way you think about law firm growth. 00:22 Guest Introductions: Roxanne Jensen and Bill Horton 00:52 Roxanne's Journey in Law and Consulting 01:48 Bill's Career Path from CPA to Consultant 03:01 How Roxanne and Bill Joined Forces 05:00 Challenges and Strategies in Law Firm Management 08:58 Importance of Business Planning in Law Firms 11:51 Raising Billing Rates: A Key to Revenue Growth 17:18 Client Feedback and Rate Tolerance 18:37 Recruitment and Retention in Law Firms 21:25 Strategic Planning and Profitability Measures 30:31 Succession Planning and Sustainability 32:58 The Pain of Annual Bonuses 33:29 Strategic Planning for Bonuses 33:53 Importance of Objective Data 34:21 Succession Planning Challenges 37:31 Organic Growth vs. Lateral Hires 38:39 Brand Transition in Succession 44:38 Disruptors and Future Planning 45:18 The Role of Strategic CFOs and COOs 54:20 Tailored Consulting Services 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.