Risk Management & Claims Prevention
New practicePRO resource: The IP law malpractice claims fact sheet
With such a large amount of claims prevention information available in LAWPRO Magazine articles and practicePRO resources, we had the idea to create simple fact sheets that CPD providers and others could use in developing their program material for specific areas of law. The latest in our series of “malpractice claims fact sheets” covers IP… Read More »
Categories: Risk Management Strategies“Retainer deposit” phishing emails target firms with a PDF containing a link to malware
A number of Ontario firms have reported receiving emails from an overseas firm advising that a retainer deposit has been made, which includes a pdf document that supposedly contains the payment details. In fact the pdf has a link built into it that will likely instal malware on the computer of the person who clicks… Read More »
Categories: Fraud PreventionOntario lawyers target of fake Ministry of Government and Consumer Services Complaint
An Ontario lawyer has reported to us that he received a “business complaint” that is purportedly from the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services. While the email address displayed as the sender says “Ministry of Government and Consumer Service”, the email is actually from [email protected]. This is clearly not an Ontario government email address. And… Read More »
Categories: Fraud PreventionReduce the distraction from the ‘casino in your pocket’
In the early days of email, one of the common bits of productivity advice was “turn off your inbox notifications.” The “You’ve Got Mail” sound or pop-up was a constant source of distraction while trying to get work done. Even with the advent of smartphones that advice was still mostly good enough. The phone meant… Read More »
Categories: Communication Errors, Technology20 Red Flags of Bad Cheque Fraud You Should Recognize
Lawyers in all areas of practice continue to be the frequent targets of bad cheque scams. These scams involve debt collections, business loans, IP licensing disputes or spousal support payments. While it appears Ontario lawyers are increasingly aware of these frauds, occasionally some are being duped into disbursing funds on a bad cheque they have… Read More »
Categories: Fraud PreventionHow unhealthy lawyers affect client service
Almost all lawyers experience stress, but unless it becomes toxic, there is little risk to the client. Occasionally things get truly out of control. That’s when important deadlines are missed, communication with the client diminishes (or ends), and files languish. In extreme cases, the lawyer ‘pretends’ to practice by misrepresenting to the client that work… Read More »
Categories: Wellness and BalanceThat’s The Way: Managing Risk in the Paperless Office
For litigators and solicitors alike, going paperless is a sure-fire way to increase your law firm’s productivity and it can help reduce your risk of a malpractice claim. How much time do you and your staff spend looking for documents? How often does your tickler system alert you at the very last moment of a… Read More »
Categories: Communication Errors, Practice Aids, TechnologyAn office of one’s own: 5 essentials for your home away from home
New lawyers, welcome to the practice of law. You now have an office of your own. You’ll be spending many of your waking hours plying your trade in this new little corner of the world. Make it a comfortable and professional place to work. Be prepared for unexpected events. What should you keep in your… Read More »
Categories: Career Management, Wellness and Balance