Explains why a single matter receipt cannot be produced from a bulk trust-to-general transfer in LawApp, covering compliance requirements under Australian trust accounting rules. Outlines how to document client-specific transactions using trust ledgers or trust account statements.
- Single transaction = single receipt: Bulk transfers move funds from multiple client matters into the general account in one combined transaction. Only one general receipt is issued for the entire transfer.
- Not matter-specific: Because the transfer does not involve a direct client payment, the receipt is not issued in any individual client’s name and cannot be split by matter.
- Compliance with trust accounting rules: Each matter involved in the transfer is automatically updated in its own trust ledger account, showing the amount withdrawn for that matter and referencing the main trust withdrawal number. This complies with the Legal Profession Uniform Law and trust accounting regulations in all Australian states and territories.
✅ Best Practice for Client-Specific Records
If you need to provide a client with documentation showing how their trust funds were used:
- Generate a Trust Ledger or Trust Account Statement for that specific matter.
- These reports show only the transactions relevant to that file, including the exact portion of the bulk transfer.
- Trust ledgers and statements are the QLS-approved, legally compliant method for providing matter-specific financial records.
🛡️ Trust Accounting Compliance (Australia-wide)
- Receipts: Must be issued promptly when trust money is received into the general trust account.
- Trust ledgers: Every client matter must have its own trust ledger, and entries (including bulk transfers) must be recorded within two business days.
- Consistency: These rules are enforced under the Legal Profession Uniform Law and equivalent trust account regulations across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, and other Australian jurisdictions.
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