The Clients' Security Fund (CSF) reimburses clients up to a limit of $100,000 for losses caused by the dishonest conduct of DC Bar members. Operating through its five trustees appointed by the DC Court of Appeals, the Clients' Security Fund represents a fundamental commitment by lawyers in the District of Columbia to protect the integrity of the profession. Please read all materials carefully. For questions or more information, call 202-780-2780.
- Rules of Procedure for the CSF
- Rule XII of the D.C. Court of Appeals Governing the D.C. Bar for the CSF
- Frequently Asked Questions
File a Claim
Step 1: Download and complete the fillable claim form here.
Before submitting your application, please make sure that:
- The application is complete, signed, and notarized; and
- All required supporting documentation identified in the application is included.
Step 2: Once complete, submit your application and supporting documentation using one of the following methods:
- Upload: For fastest processing, submit the completed application and supporting documentation through the online portal here.
- Mail: Print and mail the completed application and supporting documentation to:
District of Columbia Bar
Clients' Security Fund
901 4th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001 - Email: Email the completed application and supporting documentation to [email protected].
Please retain a copy of the completed application and supporting documentation for your records.
CSF Annual Reports
Additional Resources
- Attorney/Client Arbitration Board
- Board on Professional Responsibility
- National Client Protection Organization, Inc.
- Office of Disciplinary Counsel
- Other States’ Clients’ Security Funds
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Clients’ Security Fund?
The Clients’ Security Fund (CSF) reimburses clients up to a limit of $100,000 for losses caused by the dishonest conduct of members of the D.C. Bar. Learn more.
What does “dishonest conduct” mean?
The words “dishonest conduct” basically mean theft and include wrongful acts committed by a lawyer, such as embezzlement or the wrongful taking or conversion of money, property, or other things of value. “Dishonest conduct” does not include the negligent, inadequate, or ineffective performance of services.
What are the requirements for being considered for reimbursement?
First, the client’s loss must have been caused by the dishonest conduct of a member of the D.C. Bar. Second, the D.C. Bar member must have represented the claimant as an attorney or in another fiduciary capacity. Third, the client must have used all other available ways to recover the loss, including reasonable attempts to obtain payment from the lawyer by demand, insurance, or lawsuit.
How do I file a claim with the Clients’ Security Fund?
Call the D.C. Bar at 202-780-2772, to speak to the Bar’s administrator for the Fund. If the general circumstances of your loss meet the Fund’s guidelines, an application for reimbursement will be sent to you.
How does the process work?
You will receive a detailed application for reimbursement, which gives you an opportunity to describe the circumstances that resulted in financial loss. Receipts, copies of court orders, and other documents will be necessary to substantiate the facts in your application. One of the Fund’s volunteer Trustees will be assigned to your case. Generally, the final disposition takes about six months—depending upon the complexity of the situation involved. You will receive written notice about the disposition of your case. The Trustees’ decision is final.
