Richard L. Derzaw

Common Questions

Answers before
the first call.

Engagement

How does an initial engagement begin?
All new mandates begin with a confidential partner call. If the matter aligns with our practice, we issue an engagement letter and commence KYC and conflicts screening within 24 hours.
What is your minimum transaction size for paymaster mandates?
The firm's paymaster & escrow practice accepts transactions of USD 500,000 and above. Smaller matters may be referred to trusted correspondent firms.

Fees

How are paymaster fees calculated?
Fees are quoted on a published basis-point (bps) schedule tied to transaction value, with a fixed minimum. Full schedule is provided during engagement review.
Do you charge hourly for transactional work?
No. Transactional mandates are typically flat-fee or basis-point priced. Hourly billing is reserved for ongoing advisory relationships and disputes.

Compliance

What jurisdictions can you receive funds from?
The firm receives wires from FATF-compliant jurisdictions worldwide, subject to OFAC, sanctions, and internal AML screening. Restricted jurisdictions are declined at intake.
Are client funds insured?
Client funds are held in New York attorney trust account accounts at federally-insured depository institutions. The firm additionally maintains professional liability and cyber coverage above industry norms.

Confidentiality

How is my matter kept confidential?
All communications with the firm are protected under attorney-client privilege and work-product doctrine. Internal access is restricted on a need-to-know basis, with all files encrypted at rest and in transit.
Do you provide references from prior clients?
Given the discretion required in our practice, references are furnished only under mutual NDA and with the referring client's written consent.

Process

How long does a paymaster closing typically take?
Once KYC is complete and the IMFPA is executed, most closings settle within 48–72 hours of funds landing in the trust account.
Can you serve as escrow agent for M&A transactions?
Yes. The firm regularly acts as neutral escrow agent for indemnity holdbacks, earn-outs, and closing consideration in corporate M&A.

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