Deed Processing Assistance
DEED PROCESSING PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The purpose of the Deed Processing Program is to facilitate members'
ability to interact with each other on a uniform, predictable and efficient
basis.
The best way to get started is for each law firm to create a form that
will be used by the members that need deeds processed in another state.
The form will outline all of the specific items, documents, information
and payment methods required by that law firm to perform the deed work
being requested. Some content ideas are given below.
As you create your Deed Processing Form, keep in mind that you want to be specific. Include your realistic "turn around time," payment methods and fees involved. Be sure to include a thorough description of what is included for the fee. If applicable, add additional charges and their amounts.
SAMPLE "DEED PROCESSING" CONTENT
Law Firm of Jill Jolson
3455 Hebron St.
Gastonion, IL 82400
Phone: 325-333-3432
Fax: 325-333-3433
E-mail: jill@lawfirm.com
Dear Academy Member:
Our law firm turn around time will be approximately two weeks from the date the completed information is received. In order for us to accommodate your request for preparing deed(s) for your client, we need the following information:
- The last recorded copy of deed or probate order, whichever is applicable.
[The "Deed" may be: Quitclaim, Grant or Warranty Deed. A
Deed of Trust or Deed of Reconveyance does not show title to the property
and cannot be used in place of a Grant Deed, Quitclaim Deed or Warranty
Deed].
- A full, property address and legible legal description of property.
- A copy of a tax bill which shows the parcel number.
- The county of signing and a sample of notarial wording.
- If Affidavit of Death of Joint Tenant is needed, provide Certified
Death Certificate.
- For preparation of Assignment of Deed of Trust, provide copy of
last recorded Deed of Trust.
- A copy of Certificate of Trust - Summary
- Our fee for deed processing is [insert cost here] - to be sent with
deed request.
- Recording fees are typically [insert cost here], we will notify
you as soon as possible if the fee is different - to be sent with
deed request.
- Any additional work (letters, etc.) requested will be billed at the hourly rate of [insert cost here] per hour. We will notify you if additional work is required.
Please provide the following information:
Academy Member
Contact Person
Phone Number
Fax Number
Email Address
Client Name
Name of the Living Trust
Name on Deed
Client's Marital Status
If property is owned by one spouse, does it remain separate property
in the trust?
Client's Address
County of Signing
State of Signing
Amount of space you need for Notary Seal/Stamp
Payment Information:
Check Enclosed
Credit Card Number/expiration date
“In my 23 years as an attorney, I've been through many practice models. I've worked in a prestigious firm, worked for the Federal Government, worked in a small firm, operated in a partnership and ultimately opened my own firm. During the first half of my career, I was diligently searching for the model which would make me happy and allow me to honorably serve my clients and still have a balanced family life. I've worked closely with the two gentlemen who helped write this book and I attribute my success and happiness as a lawyer and layperson to their coaching. This book is the perfect primer for new law school graduates and seasoned attorneys seeking the answers which have alluded them in striking the right balance between life and law. Unfortunately, while law school teaches you how to think like a lawyer, it does a poor job of teaching you how to operate in a law firm or run a legal business. I've read all of Michael Gerber's books and heard him speak numerous times. I think he's right on point. This book is a supplement to his other books and specifically addresses the challenging issues which cause attorney dissatisfaction and law firm failure. If you are a satisfied attorney you shouldn't read this book. It's not for you. If you are not happy, this is the place to start. Legal practices are changing at a rapid speed. The old models are being replaced like yesterday's garbage. Successful, happy lawyers understand the skills involved in operating their practices as businesses. In my experience, this creates happy, satisfied clients. It's a win-win situation. Two of my children are now in college, both wishing to pursue different passions. I've encouraged both of them to get business degrees and learn accounting, computer skills, social networking, human resources, entrepreneurship and the myriad of other components mentioned in this book.”
Cheryl D. — North Carolina Member