In which account must a paralegal deposit client funds that are for a future work?

• A. Operating account
• B. Savings account
• C. Trust account
• D. Joint account

Answer: (C)

Funds that belong to clients and are to be used for future work must be deposited into a trust account. This keeps client money separate from the paralegal’s own funds and any business operating or personal accounts, protecting the client’s property and ensuring proper trust accounting. A trust account is designated solely for client funds, so advances or retainers for future services are held there until they are earned or disbursed. Mixing client funds with an operating or savings account risks misappropriation and violates professional rules governing trust money. A joint account is not appropriate for client funds because it compromises the required separation and control over client money. In short, client funds for future work belong in a trust account.