The Nebraska Court Rules of Professional Conduct impose strict fiduciary standards on any lawyer who holds the property of others. These standards are detailed in Nebraska Court Rule of Professional Conduct §3-501.15, "Safekeeping Property." As violations of the Rules can result in harsh discipline, including disbarment, it is crucial that lawyers thoroughly understand the rules and employ proper procedures.

This handbook focuses upon a lawyer's responsibilities for the safekeeping of money held in a trust account. Other types of property held on behalf of clients and third parties must also be safeguarded under a lawyer's fiduciary responsibility. Specifics related to the manner of retaining items other than money can also be found in Neb. Ct. R. of Prof. Cond. §3-501.15.