Client Security Fund frequently asked questions and answers
The Missouri Bar Board of Governors created the Client Security Fund in 1966 to compensate clients harmed by a small minority of lawyers who fail to meet the standards established by the Missouri Rules of Professional Conduct.
The fund is maintained by appropriations from the annual enrollment fees paid by each member of The Missouri Bar. It also accrues interest and receives restitution payments from lawyers seeking reinstatement.
A six-member Client Security Fund Committee operates under rules established by the Board of Governors. The committee may recommend full or partial reimbursement or denial of a claim. All payments recommended by the committee are subject to review by the Board of Governors, which retains full discretion regarding payment of any claim.
Frequently asked questions:
Who can submit a claim?
You qualify to submit a claim if you hired a lawyer who has been disciplined by the Supreme Court of Missouri. The lawyer must have been disbarred, suspended, ruled mentally incapacitated, or has died.
Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Client Security Fund, you must file a claim within two years of discovering the loss.
How do I file a claim?
You can file a claim using the Client Security Fund Claim Form found on MissouriLawyersHelp.org.
You may also email llarkin@mobar.org to request a printed copy.
How long does it take for claims to be decided?
Timelines vary depending on several factors, including:
- If all necessary information and documentation was included with the form
- Whether the lawyer files a response to the claim
- The number of claims submitted within a given period
The committee works to decide all claims within a year of receipt.
Click here to learn more about the protections The Missouri Bar offers clients.