Pennsylvania Lawyers Fund for Client Security - Harrisburg, PA

Pennsylvania Lawyers Fund for Client Security

Restoring Trust and Reimbursement

The Pennsylvania Lawyers Fund for Client Security is a unique agency established by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to protect the integrity of the legal profession. Located within the Pennsylvania Judicial Center on Commonwealth Avenue, the Fund's primary mission is to reimburse clients who have suffered financial losses as a result of the dishonest conduct of their attorneys. This includes theft of settlement funds, embezzlement of estate assets, or the misappropriation of unearned legal fees. The Fund acts as a safety net for the public, ensuring that victims of attorney misconduct are not left financially devastated, thereby promoting public confidence in the administration of justice.

Board Operations and Funding

The Fund is not supported by tax dollars. Instead, it is financed entirely by an annual assessment paid by every licensed attorney in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is governed by a seven-member volunteer Board of Trustees, appointed by the Supreme Court, which includes both lawyers and non-lawyers to ensure a balanced perspective. The Board reviews claims submitted by victims and determines the amount of reimbursement, subject to established caps (currently $150,000 per claimant). The staff at the Harrisburg office investigates these claims, verifies the alleged loss, and coordinates with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel.

Filing a Claim

Individuals who believe they have been victimized by a Pennsylvania attorney can contact this office to initiate the claims process. The staff provides guidance on how to file a 'Statement of Claim' and what supporting documentation is required, such as fee agreements and proof of payment. There is no fee to file a claim. The Fund also pursues subrogation rights, meaning that after paying a claim, it seeks to recover the money from the dishonest attorney to replenish the fund. Visitors to the office are typically there for board meetings or administrative hearings and must adhere to the strict security protocols of the Judicial Center.