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Centennial Title hired her to open an escrow office in Palm
Springs. First Centennial Title hired Kleindienst based on
excellent recommendations from past employers and her ability to
attract clients. Kleindienst worked for First Centennial Title
and its successors until 1984, when she began petitioner's
operations. At that time, petitioner took over the office space
and telephone number of Kleindienst's former employer, which went
out of business. Kleindienst also taught two escrow officer
courses at The College of The Desert.
During the years in issue, Kleindienst served as
petitioner's president, secretary, and chief financial officer
and worked as an escrow officer and manager. In her
administrative capacity, Kleindienst oversaw business operations,
controlled finances, and provided financial planning. She
supervised personnel, reviewed employee performance, and
determined compensation. In addition, she kept up-to-date with
State regulation of the escrow industry and determined when to
obtain legal advice in handling escrow transactions. Kleindienst
dealt with client complaints and determined when petitioner
should not accept an escrow because of potential problems the
escrow may create. As an escrow officer, Kleindienst handled all
types of escrow transactions, including most of petitioner's
complex escrows. She also advised other escrow officers in
handling their accounts. Although Kleindienst could not estimate
the hours she spent at each function, she spent the majority of
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Last modified: May 25, 2011