Skip to main content
Iowa Judicial Branch
Main Content

What About Signature Authority for a Stand-by Lawyer?

Iowa Court Rule 45.11 allows a sole lawyer signatory to designate another Iowa lawyer as a stand-by signatory on his or her trust account, with that authority to become effective upon the occurrence of an event or events described in the instrument, which might include death, disappearance, abandonment of law practice, temporary or permanent incapacity, suspension, or disbarment.  The new rule facilitates planning by sole practitioners for administration of their law practice in the event of their death or disability. Planning for death or disability is required on the part of all private practitioners, and the Rule 45.11 signature authority is a key component of this.

« Back

© 2024 Iowa Judicial Branch. All Rights Reserved.