Brokers have critically important supervisory duties with regard to managing a brokerage and are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards. Directing the firm's operations, handling licenses, supervising licensees and other staff, and establishing company policies on agency are just a few of their many duties. They are also responsible for ensuring that advertisements comply with federal and state law and that earnest money and trust accounts are properly maintained. Importantly, brokers must be aware of the types of real estate practices that may lead to disciplinary action.