ARDC

As part of its continuing effort to promote public confidence in the administration of justice, the Illinois Supreme Court has announced that a client whose case is not completed due to the death or disability of his or her attorney, and who has made reasonable efforts to pursue civil remedies, is now eligible to apply for reimbursement of unearned fees paid to the attorney.

When adopted in 1994, Supreme Court Rule 780 created a Client Protection Program (CPP) Trust Fund to reimburse certain losses incurred by clients of Illinois lawyers. The rule was created to provide a mechanism for a client to obtain reimbursement if the attorney engaged in dishonest conduct causing the client financial loss. The fund is administered by the Illinois Attorney and Registration Commission (ARDC).

According to Supreme Court Chief Justice Rita B. Garman, “The Court recognizes that a client may also incur such a loss when the attorney dies or becomes disabled during the representation. By amending this rule, we signal to the public that we are equally concerned about the client who suffers a financial loss due to events outside the attorney’s control, such as death or disability.”

The amendment is effective immediately. Claimants may apply for reimbursement through the CPP. More information on submitting a claim is available at: https://www.iardc.org/clientprotection.html.

Bundled with a complimentary Fastbook PDF download!

This handy reference book conveniently brings together all of the rules governing the legal profession and judiciary in Illinois. It includes the Illinois Code of Judicial Conduct, the Illinois Supreme Court Rules on Admission and Discipline of Attorneys, the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct, the Rules of the ARDC, and the Rules of the Board of Admission and Committee on Character and Fitness.

Originally published and distributed by the ARDC, this trusted compilation of official rules is now being published by the ISBA. Take advantage of our great member price and order your copy today!

Order at www.isba.org/store/books/rulesgoverninglegalprofession

Price: ISBA Member, $15; Non-member $25

 
The Supreme Court of Illinois announced the filing of lawyer disciplinary orders on Sept. 12, 2014, during the September Term of Court. Sanctions were imposed because the lawyers engaged in professional misconduct by violating state ethics law.

The Supreme Court of Illinois announced the filing of lawyer disciplinary orders on May 16, 2014, during the May Term of Court. Sanctions were imposed because the lawyers engaged in professional misconduct by violating state ethics law.