Operations Audit Case Study
An Operations Audit was conducted for a criminal defense firm in Michigan. We discovered that the firm was using multiple forms and spreadsheets that could be eliminated with the proper set up and use of their case management system. In addition, attorneys and paralegals were not following a consistent method for documenting client communications and saving documents in a case centric manner. The intake and sales process was especially cumbersome and the firm was spending money on unnecessary software. There was also a lack of control of the marketing spend and fiscal management issues. Potential savings identified for the firm were over $200,000/year.
Staffing Analysis Case Study
A Staffing Analysis was conducted for a family and personal injury law firm in Georgia. We discovered that the firm had the wrong people in some key roles. In particular, the finance and human resource functions were not being handled properly. Also, many of the firm's staff were unsure of their essential duties and responsibilities. They did not have current job descriptions nor did they receive any type of performance management feedback. The analysis also uncovered some major issues with the firm's bookkeeping and IOLTA account management. A plan for clarifying roles, conducting performance reviews, and hiring the right people was put into place. The firm also changed bookkeeping services, reconciled their IOLTA accounts, and put proper financial procedures in place. All resulting in reduced risk for the firm and peace of mind for the owner.
Financial Systems Analysis Case Study
A Financial Systems Analysis was conducted for a bankruptcy and immigration firm in Florida. We discovered that the firm had not been reimbursing itself for filing fees paid on the firm credit card from the operating account. There were excess funds in the IOLTA account that needed to be transferred into operating. However, the tracking system that was being used was inconsistent, so the amount to be transferred and for which matter was unclear. It took several months to figure out how much to transfer and account for the proper owner of the funds yet to be earned. The firm implemented the recommended system for tracking fees paid and reimbursing from IOLTA on a regular basis. The firm owner was relieved from the worry that the IOLTA mess was causing her and eliminated her risk of a IOLTA regulation violation. She was also able to transfer over $30,000 into her operating account!