Which statement describes the duties under Rule 1.15?

• A. Safekeeping, proper custody, and prompt accounting of client funds and property
• B. Using client funds for office expenses
• C. Delaying accounting
• D. Recommending outside custodian

Answer: (A)

The main idea is safeguarding client money and property and keeping an accurate, timely record of it. Under Rule 1.15 lawyers must hold client funds and property in trust, separate from the lawyer’s own funds, and provide prompt accounting of all transactions involving those funds or property. This includes keeping proper records, reconciling trust accounts, and returning or distributing funds as required. This focused duty—keeping funds safe in a trust account and reporting promptly on their status—is what Rule 1.15 emphasizes.

Using client funds for office expenses would breach the rule because it misuses or commingles funds that must be kept separate. Delaying accounting would fail the “prompt accounting” requirement. Recommending an outside custodian isn’t the defining duty described by the rule; the core expectation is safekeeping in a proper trust arrangement and timely accounting, though outside arrangements can be appropriate in some circumstances if handled correctly.