Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection

The Hawaii Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection operates as a program of the State Bar, established under Rule 10 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Hawaii. This fund serves as a public service of the Court, recognizing the collective obligation of lawyers to clients who have experienced harm from the dishonest conduct of a few members of the profession. It is financed entirely by contributions from Hawaii lawyers, without taxpayer or government subsidy.

The Fund's primary function is to reimburse clients who have suffered financial losses or property due to theft or dishonesty by a Hawaii-licensed attorney. Reimbursements are limited to losses occurring within a lawyer-client relationship or when a lawyer acts in a fiduciary capacity. Claimants may receive up to $100,000 per individual, with a maximum of $300,000 per attorney involved.

To qualify for reimbursement, claims must meet specific conditions, including that the attorney was licensed and had an office in Hawaii, engaged in dishonest conduct, and the claim was filed within two years of the loss. The Fund does not cover disputes over attorney fees, claims of negligence or malpractice, or losses of individuals closely related to the attorney causing the losses. The Fund contracts with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel for administrative support, and decisions are made by five Trustees appointed by the Supreme Court of Hawaii.