1. Why do I need to complete an Annual IOLTA Certification?
The Oregon Rules of Professional Conduct at 1.15-2 (m) mandates that every lawyer certify annually that they are in compliance with Rule 1.15-1 and 1.15-2. The full text of 1.15-2 (m) is as follows:
ORPC 1.15-2 (m) every lawyer shall certify annually on a form and by a due date prescribed by the Oregon State Bar that the lawyer is in compliance with Rule 1.15-1 and this rule. Between annual certifications, a lawyer establishing an IOLTA account shall so advise the Oregon Law Foundation in writing within 30 days of establishing the account, on a form approved by the Oregon Law Foundation.
2. Who needs to complete this form?
All members of the Oregon State Bar need to complete an IOLTA Certification. This includes attorneys with an inactive status.
3. What if I do not have an IOLTA account?
You still need to complete the form by checking box 2, 3 or 4, which ever applies to your situation. Check only one box.
4. We are a law firm and received only one copy of the form in the OSB Membership Dues packet. Does each lawyer have to fill out a separate form?
Yes, each Oregon State Bar member in the firm must individually sign and return a form.
Please fill out the law firm’s IOLTA account information then make copies of the form and distribute to each individual attorney for his/her signature.
5. I am an associate at a law firm but do not have any control over the trust account. How do I complete the form?
You will need to check box 1 and also complete the IOLTA account information section with the firms IOLTA account information.
6. What if I am a judge or judicial clerk how do I file?
Check box 4 indicating you do not engage in the practice of law in Oregon.
7. How do I complete the form if I am an active member of the bar but not currently practicing and still have a trust account open?
You will have to file your response by hard copy because the online form cannot accommodate this scenario. Check box 4 and complete the IOLTA account information requested in number 1.
8. What if my office is in another state?
If you have your IOLTA account in that state then please check box 2 and leave the financial information blank.