Lockton Affinity, LLC – Page 2

Do You Follow These Social Media Guidelines?

People’s willingness to disclose personal information on social media can be particularly helpful in the discovery phase of litigation. Snooping on opposing parties, witnesses or jurors through social media can provide a treasure-trove of information that might have once taken a private investigator months to obtain. However, lawyers need to be aware of the emerging ethical violations that could result from their online sleuthing activities.

Before Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, the Model Rules of Professional Conduct addressing communication with non-clients has less room for interpretation. For example, Model Rule 4.2 advises that “a lawyer shall not communicate with a person known to be represented by another lawyer in the matter, unless the lawyer has consent or is authorized to do so by law.”1

Trying to interpret how social media’s communication features […]

August 15th, 2019|

How thorough is your file documentation?

Many malpractice claims are filed because of improper file documentation. Too often, when a ruling is unfavorable to a client, they will deny they ever understood the risks of the plan. If a client denies conversations occurred and there is no documentation, the lawyer is faced with a “he said, she said” scenario.

To prevent a claim being filed against you, always document your file regarding key strategic decisions.

Proper file documentation shows you advised your client of potential risks and allowed the client to make an informed decision on how to proceed.

File documentation at the start of a client relationship

Each new client or project, big or small, should start with an engagement letter that is signed by all associated parties. Though each engagement letter will be different, always include these […]

June 27th, 2019|

5 Reasons Small Law Firms Need Professional Liability Coverage

Professional liability insurance is critical piece of protection for small and large firms alike. In the event a malpractice claim is filled against your firm, a professional liability policy will help cover the cost of certain legal fees, and judgments or settlements your firm may face.

The odds
Even if your practice is small and you are extremely diligent in your work, your firm can be sued. Though you may work in a space where “everyone knows everyone” and you trust that your clients would never sue your firm, you truly never know. An estimated 4-17% of lawyers are sued each year, and of all reported malpractice claims, 70% are made against firms with fewer than five attorneys.
Peace of mind
An error-free representation does not mean you are free from […]

June 4th, 2018|

The Importance of Professional Liability Insurance

As an attorney, you know the legal profession has a multitude of risks. From malpractice claims and legal fees to security breaches and lost laptops, your firm faces inherent risks each and every day.

According to the latest ABA Profile of Legal Malpractice Claims*, legal malpractice claims continue to rise. Although less than 15% of cases result in a payment to the plaintiff by trial or settlement, there was a huge increase where claimants received more than $1 million. Unfortunately, even if you win a claim, it is costly to defend yourself. Adequate insurance is more important than ever to protect you against the unexpected.

To protect yourself, your partners and the assets of your firm from the costs of a potential claim, get Professional Liability Insurance from the NYC Bar […]

November 7th, 2017|

About Lockton Affinity, LLC

Do You Follow These Social Media Guidelines?

How thorough is your file documentation?

File documentation at the start of a client relationship

5 Reasons Small Law Firms Need Professional Liability Coverage

The Importance of Professional Liability Insurance