Compliance Lifeline | August 2026
It’s been a surprisingly busy month for regulatory activity, and this issue of Compliance Lifeline reflects that. The SRA has updated its sectoral risk assessment, sharpened its expectations on third-party litigation funding, and issued a warning notice on AI use – while the Legal Ombudsman has launched a new model for handling complaints, and the […]
Why CQS Accreditation matters more than ever for conveyancing firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Why CQS Accreditation matters more than ever for conveyancing firms Property fraud is accelerating faster than most conveyancing teams can keep pace with. In 2025 alone, HM Land Registry stopped 86 potential frauds with an estimated value of £58 million, and the National Residential Landlords Association has described property fraud as one […]
SRA Warning Notice puts AI governance and client confidentiality into the spotlight
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA Warning Notice puts AI governance and client confidentiality into the spotlight On 17 August 2026, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) published a warning notice on the misuse of AI, alongside a news release setting out its concerns in plain terms. The message for every SRA-regulated firm is straightforward: using AI does […]
The Legal Ombudsman’s new Model Complaints Resolution Procedure: what it means for your law firm
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The Legal Ombudsman’s new Model Complaints Resolution Procedure: what it means for your law firm. On 29th July 2026, the Legal Ombudsman (LeO) launched its Model Complaints Resolution Procedure (MCRP) – a voluntary framework for handling client complaints, built on LeO’s own case-handling experience, a sector-wide call for input, and piloting with […]
Independence, conflicts, financial crime: What the SRAs new litigation funding guidance means for your compliance framework
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Independence, conflicts, financial crime: What the SRAs new litigation funding guidance means for your compliance framework On 9 July 2026, the SRA published new guidance on third-party litigation funding. A lot of firms reading this don’t arrange funding for clients, so it’s easy to assume the guidance sits outside their compliance workload. […]
SRA’s updated sectoral risk assessment: What’s moved, what’s new, and what it means for your firm
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA’s updated Sectoral Risk Assessment: What’s moved, what’s new, and what it means for your firm On 6 August 2026, the Solicitors Regulation Authority updated its sectoral risk assessment for anti-money laundering, terrorist financing, proliferation financing and sanctions. It will come as little surprise to lawyers that conveyancing remains the sector’s highest […]
AML supervision reform: what’s changing, what we know, and what firms should do now
Facebook Linkedin Instagram AML supervision reform: what’s changing, what we know, and what firms should do now A practical guide to the transfer of AML/CTF supervision from the SRA to the FCA. It won’t have gone unnoticed by our readers that in October 2025, HM Treasury confirmed that the Financial Conduct Authority will become the […]
Compliance Lifeline | July 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance rarely stands still, and this month’s Compliance Lifeline reflects that. We sit down with Victoria Marshall, Director and Head of Property at Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers, for a candid look at what managing a conveyancing team under sustained regulatory pressure actually involves. We’re also delighted to introduce Carolyn Beal, the […]
In conversation with Victoria Marshall, Head of Property, Pearson Legal & Financial Advisers
Facebook Linkedin Instagram In conversation with Victoria Marshall, Director and Head of Property at Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Managing a conveyancing team through the current compliance climate: an interview with Victoria Marshall We recently sat down with Victoria Marshall, Director and Head of Property at Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers, to talk about what […]
Enderley Consulting welcomes Carolyn Beal
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Enderley Consulting welcomes Carolyn Beal to the team We are delighted to share some exciting news for Enderley Consulting and, we hope, for the law firms we work with. We are pleased to welcome Carolyn Beal to the Enderley Consulting team as a consultant, bringing with her specialisms are amongst the most […]
Action required – prepare now for the SRA’s complaints data collection
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Action required – prepare now for the SRA’s complaints data collection Regular readers will recall that we covered the SRA’s complaints questionnaire back in February 2025, when the deadline for submission was fast approaching. That exercise asked firms to provide detailed information about their complaints procedures, staff awareness, training and recording practices. […]
The SRA’s complaints handling consultation – where we are and what it means for your firm
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The SRA’s complaints handling consultation – where we are and what it means for your firm Those who follow Compliance Lifeline closely will know that first-tier complaints handling has been high on the SRA’s regulatory agenda for some time. We covered the original consultation back in June 2025 in some detail. Since […]
Compliance Lifeline | June 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • June 2026 Regulatory change is coming fast – is your firm ready? As we move into the second half of the year, the regulatory landscape for law firms continues to evolve at pace. From changes to SRA supervision and whistleblowing requirements to increasing scrutiny of sanctions compliance and AML […]
What the FCA’s sanctions report means for law firms (even though it isn’t aimed at you – yet)
Facebook Linkedin Instagram What the FCA’s sanctions report means for law firms (even though it isn’t aimed at you – yet) On 28 May 2026, the FCA published its findings from four years of work assessing how financial services firms manage sanctions risk. At first glance, this looks like a financial services story. But the […]
New SRA Supervision Guidance post-Mazur: What’s Changed, and Why Culture Is the Real Test
Facebook Linkedin Instagram New SRA Supervision Guidance post-Mazur: What’s Changed, and Why Culture Is the Real Test On 12 June 2026, the Solicitors Regulation Authority published substantially expanded guidance on effective supervision – growing from nine pages to twenty-four. The update follows the Court of Appeal’s ruling in CILEX v Mazur & Others, a case […]
The SRA’s new whistleblowing designation – what it means for your firm, and why culture is the part that matters most
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The SRA’s new whistleblowing designation – what it means for your firm, and why culture is the part that matters most An easy-to-overlook regulatory change has significant implications for how law firms are run. Here is what you need to know, and what to do about it. On 3 June it was […]
SRA AML Data Collection 2026: What law firms need to do before the deadline
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA AML Data Collection 2026: What law firms need to do before the deadline As we reported last month, the SRA’s AML and sanctions data collection form opens on 29 June 2026 – only two weeks away – and returns are required during July. Key takeaways: Completion is a regulatory requirement for […]
SRA AML Fines 2026: What law firms are getting wrong, and how to avoid it
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA AML Fines 2026: What law firms are getting wrong, and how to avoid it A recent analysis conducted by Legal Futures revealed that the SRA had fined 59 law firms a combined total of £600,000 for AML breaches in the past six months. Key takeaways: Every firm fined either lacked a […]
The SRA just changed the rules, and smaller firms are going to feel it most
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The SRA just changed the rules, and smaller firms are going to feel it most We’ve spent years working alongside law firms – mostly smaller/medium sized practices – and run one ourselves, so we’ve seen first-hand how much compliance already weighs on the people running them. The partners who are also fee […]
Compliance Lifeline | May 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • May 2026 We’ll be honest – when we sat down at the start of May to look at what was coming through, my first instinct was that it might be a quieter month. No emergency guidance, no high-profile firm collapses making the headlines, nothing that felt quite as dramatic […]
UK Government details a cross-government approach to sanctions enforcement
Facebook Linkedin Instagram UK Government Details a Cross-Government Approach to Sanctions Enforcement Compliance officers should take note – the paper sets out clearly what can protect your firm’s position in the event of a breach. In March 2026, the UK Government published an important policy paper setting out its cross-government strategic approach to sanctions enforcement. […]
What the latest SRA Misconduct Data Means for your Law Firm
Facebook Linkedin Instagram What the latest SRA misconduct data means for your law firm New figures published by the SRA paint a striking picture of a regulator under pressure and carry an implicit message for every firm it oversees. On 15 May 2026, the SRA published new data on misconduct reports and investigations that, read […]
SRA Ethics Focus Groups
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA Ethics Focus Groups There are still spaces available to take part in the SRA’s professional ethics listening exercise this June. As we reported last month, the SRA launched a consultation on strengthening its continuing competence requirements on 22 April 2026, proposing mandatory learning records, annual ethics discussions, and new powers to […]
Upcoming changes to the Money Laundering Regulations
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Upcoming changes to the Money Laundering Regulations If the SRA’s April update slipped through the cracks during a busy month, here’s your catch-up. On 22 April 2026, the SRA confirmed that HM Treasury has laid a draft statutory instrument before Parliament proposing amendments to the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of […]
SRA Consults on 2026/27 Business Plan
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA Consults on 2026/27 Business Plan A significant reset is proposed, but it comes at a cost to solicitors and firms. Here’s what you need to know, and why your response matters. The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has opened a consultation on its draft Business Plan and funding requirement for 2026/27, and […]
Money laundering in property: What the regulators are watching for, and what your law firm needs to know
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Money laundering in property: What the regulators are watching for, and what your law firm needs to know The government has published updated guidance on money laundering risks in the real estate and letting agency sector, refreshed in September 2025 following the National Risk Assessment 2025. The guidance identifies the property sector […]
SRA Launches Annual AML and Sanctions Data Collection Exercise
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA Launches Annual AML and Sanctions Data Collection Exercise The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has announced its annual anti-money laundering (AML) and sanctions data collection exercise, which will take place in July 2026. The online form opened on 29 June (available here), and the SRA will contact compliance officers at regulated firms […]
Artificial intelligence policies in law firms need constant attention
Facebook Linkedin Instagram AI policies in law firms need constant attention In 15 years of helping professional services firms develop the policies that underpin how they operate, the one thing we’ve learnt at Enderley is that even the best-run firms can find themselves behind the curve. Nowhere is that more true right now than with […]
Compliance Lifeline | April 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • April 2026 It has been one of those months when several significant regulatory developments have landed at once, and the team at Enderley Consulting has done its best to cover all of them without either cutting corners or testing the limits of your reading stamina. This edition runs to […]
The SRA wants solicitors to record their learning and have annual ethics conversations. Here’s what that actually means.
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA Proposes Mandatory Ethics Talks and Learning Records The SRA has launched a consultation on strengthening its continuing competence regime, including mandatory record-keeping of learning and development and a new requirement for annual ethics discussions. The consultation is open until 15 July 2026. Here is what is being proposed, why, and what […]
Yes, you probably need to register with HMRC as a ‘tax adviser’. No, it isn’t as alarming as it sounds.
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Yes, you probably need to register with HMRC as a ‘tax adviser’. No, it isn’t as alarming as it sounds. From 18 May 2026, solicitors who submit SDLT returns, IHT forms, probate tax documents, and a wide range of other HMRC-facing work on behalf of clients will need to register with HMRC […]
Mazur: the dust settles, the guidance is updated, and the supervision question lands squarely with firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Mazur: the dust settles, the guidance is updated, and the supervision question lands squarely with firms The Court of Appeal’s March judgment in Mazur restored the pre-existing delegation model for litigation. But the story did not end there. A last-minute clarification from the court on 22 April, prompted by a challenge to […]
MLRO or MLCO? The FCA wants to hear from you, and this is why you should respond
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The FCA wants to hear from you. This is why you should respond. The FCA has begun reaching out directly to MLCOs and MLROs in the legal sector to inform how it will approach AML supervision. If you have received an email from the SRA inviting you to take part in this […]
Digital ID for AML: the rules have just changed -and some firms may not have noticed
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Digital ID for AML: the rules have just changed – and some firms may not have noticed This article follows on from our March 2025 piece on the Companies House identity verification process, which introduced mandatory IDV for company directors and PSCs under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. If you […]
Is a CQS audit heading your way? Why the answer is probably yes
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Is a CQS audit heading your way? Why the answer is probably yes The Law Society has long signalled its intention to audit every CQS-accredited firm. The evidence on the ground suggests that intention is now becoming reality – and many firms are not as ready as they think. If you hold […]
A new era of partnership? What the SRA’s fresh direction means for law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram We recently sat down with long-standing friend of Enderley Consulting, Brian Evans, Managing Partner of Lanyon Bowdler and newly appointed Law Society Council Member. Brian shared his impressions from the regulator’s new leadership, and what it might mean in practice. There are moments in professional life when a change in tone feels […]
When HMRC puts you on the naughty list – and how to get off it!*
Facebook Linkedin Instagram HMRC maintains a public register of businesses it has penalised under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017. It is sometimes referred to, informally, as the naughty list. It is anything but informal in its consequences. The scale of enforcement The list has grown […]
It’s here…introducing the Enderley InfoHub in partnership with Infolegal
It’s here…introducing the Enderley InfoHub in partnership with Infolegal In our view, it’s the beating heart of a compliant, confident legal practice, and it’s even better than we promised! The wait is over, and we couldn’t be more excited! For a while now we’ve hinted at a collaboration that we believed would genuinely change the […]
Compliance Lifeline | March 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • March 2026 Before we launch into the compliance updates – and there are quite a few this edition – we want to pause and say thank you. On 23 January, we celebrated fifteen years of Enderley Consulting at Hencote Vineyard in Shrewsbury, surrounded by the clients, friends, and professional […]
FCA & SRA joint warning: motor finance commission claims
Facebook Linkedin Instagram FCA & SRA joint warning: motor finance commission claims In a rare joint statement, the FCA and SRA have issued a formal warning to law firms and claims management companies (CMCs) involved in motor finance commission claims. The focus is on two specific problems: consumers being signed up to multiple representatives for […]
Crypto and Money Laundering: Due diligence implications for firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Crypto and Money Laundering: Due diligence implications for firms The use of cryptocurrency in money laundering is increasingly appearing in SRA supervisory findings and national risk assessments. Both the SRA’s 2025 AML report and the UK National Risk Assessment classify cryptoasset exposure as high risk, citing speed, pseudo-anonymity, and cross-border functionality as […]
ICO International Transfer Guidance: New three-step test
Facebook Linkedin Instagram ICO International Transfer Guidance: New three-step test The Information Commissioner’s Office published substantially revised guidance on international transfers of personal data on 15 January 2026. The update reflects changes introduced by the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 and introduces a new three-step test designed to help organisations determine whether their data […]
Estate administration complaints rising: LeO guidance on beneficiary requests
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Estate administration complaints rising: LeO guidance on beneficiary requests The Legal Ombudsman (LeO) has published a new spotlight piece on complaints arising from estate administration – specifically focused on how solicitors handle requests for information from beneficiaries. The context is striking: wills and probate complaints to the Ombudsman rose 28% in 2024/25, […]
AML fines continue: the conveyancing failings pattern
Facebook Linkedin Instagram AML fines continue: the conveyancing failings pattern The SRA’s 2024–25 AML report confirms that the regulator conducted 935 proactive supervisory engagements in the year to April 2025, a 72% increase on the previous year. Nearly a third of firms assessed were fully non-compliant; a further 54% were only partially compliant. Fines across […]
Mortgage Lenders’ Handbook: new platform delayed to June 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Mortgage Lenders’ Handbook: new platform delayed to June 2026 The new UK Finance Mortgage Lenders’ Handbook platform, originally due to launch on 2 March 2026, has been postponed until the end of June 2026 following concerted pressure from all three UK law societies. The delay follows a turbulent few weeks: UK Finance […]
Financial Action Task Force Evaluation 2027: HM Treasury survey for UK law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram FATF 2027 evaluation: HM Treasury survey for law firms HM Treasury is preparing for the UK’s 2027 Financial Action Task Force (FATF) mutual evaluation – a high-stakes international assessment of the UK’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime. As part of that preparation, Treasury is inviting law firms to complete a survey […]
New SRA misconduct reporting form – old form no longer accepted
Facebook Linkedin Instagram New SRA Misconduct Reporting form – old form no longer accepted The SRA has replaced its misconduct reporting process. A new online form – available here as a Word document download – is now in use for all reports, whether that’s self-reports from firms, concerns raised by members of the public, or […]
Updated sanctions guidance: new case study and reporting duties
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Updated sanctions guidance: new case study and reporting duties The SRA has published a substantially revised edition of its guidance on Complying with the UK Sanctions Regime. The refresh – timed to coincide with the transition to a single sanctions list – introduces several important additions that firms should review carefully. The […]
What’s driving the upwards trend in law firm restructuring and new authorisations: Where the market stands
Facebook Linkedin Instagram What’s driving the upwards trend in law firm restructuring and new authorisations? Since the start of 2025, our practice has seen a marked uptick in enquiries from law firms about restructuring, new authorisations, and alternative business models. The question we keep returning to is: what is driving this? Well, it’s likely […]
Beyond the FATF Lists: Why UK law firms must look further when assessing corruption risk
Facebook Linkedin Instagram https://enderleyconsulting.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Corruption-index-animation.mp4 Beyond the FATF Lists: Why UK law firms must look further when assessing corruption risk Combining the Latest FATF Grey List Updates with Transparency International’s 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index February 2026 has brought significant developments for UK law firm compliance professionals. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) added Kuwait and Papua […]
FATF Grey List update: Comprehensive guide for MLROs
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Changes to the FATF Grey List – comprehensive compliance guide for MLROs The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has added Kuwait and Papua New Guinea to its grey list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring. Under Regulation 33(1)(b) of the Money Laundering Regulations 2017, this addition means UK law firms are now legally […]
One list only – the UK Sanctions List is now the sole authority
Facebook Linkedin Instagram One list only: the UK Sanctions List is now the sole authority As we’ve talked about previously, from 28 January 2026, the UK government consolidated its sanctions framework. The UK Sanctions List (UKSL), maintained by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is now the single authoritative source for all UK sanctions […]
The SRA Compliance Officer Thematic Review – Insights, concerns and the way forward
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The SRA Compliance Officer Thematic Review: Insights, concerns and the way forward The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has published their comprehensive findings of a significant thematic review examining how Compliance Officers for Legal Practice (COLPs) and Compliance Officers for Finance and Administration (COFAs) are operating across law firms. The review, based on […]
It all started with a conversation on the M5!
Facebook Linkedin Instagram It started with a conversation on the M5! On 23 January, we celebrated fifteen years of Enderley Consulting the only way that felt right: by gathering the people who made those fifteen years possible and celebrating with them. Friends, family, clients and professional partners travelled from across the country to join us […]
Compliance Lifeline | January 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • January 2026 Welcome to this month’s edition of Compliance Lifeline from Enderley Consulting – wishing all of our readers a very happy and prosperous 2026. As regulatory pressures continue to evolve across the legal and professional services sectors, this month’s round-up brings you essential insights to start the year […]
UK law firms brace for FCA takeover of AML supervision
Facebook Linkedin Instagram UK law firms brace for FCA takeover of AML supervision UK law firms are facing growing scrutiny over their anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks, as legal regulators and government bodies increasingly express concern about whether the current supervisory model is robust enough to take financial crime. This has culminated in the Government announcing […]
Case Study: Misha Wallis & Co Solicitors
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Case study: Misha Wallis & Co Solicitors We recently spoke with Glenn Wallis, one of the principals at Blackburn-based Misha Wallis & Co Solicitors, about his experience working with Enderley Consulting. Glenn oversees both the day-to-day running of the firm and client work, and as a Chartered Legal Executive and qualified civil […]
Why the Ministry of Justice’s plan for client account Interest is fundamentally flawed
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Why the Ministry of Justice’s plan for client account Interest is fundamentally flawed The Ministry of Justice (“MoJ”) has launched a consultation proposing that law firms in England and Wales hand over a large portion of the interest earned on client accounts to the government. This policy, labelled an Interest on Lawyers’ […]
The latest on Mazur…
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The latest on the Mazur ruling… The Mazur v Charles Russell Speechlys LLP judgment continues to send ripples through the legal profession. It raises serious uncertainty over who may conduct litigation, the use of AI in litigation, and the role of non‑authorised staff (such as legal executives or paralegals) in litigation work. […]
Case study: Begbies Traynor Group
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Case study: Begbies Traynor Group Supporting a multi-entity accountancy and advisory group Begbies Traynor with AML & ICAEW-compliance reviews At Enderley Consulting, we have long supported law firms with independent AML audits and regulatory guidance. Recently, we were instructed by a large, multi-entity accountancy and advisory group to carry out a full-scope […]
National Crime Agency’s updated guidance on Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs)
Facebook Linkedin Instagram National Crime Agency updated guidance on Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) In November 2025, the National Crime Agency (NCA) issued updated guidance on Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), which replaces all previous guidance. The NCA remains clear that SARs are a key intelligence tool in the fight against money laundering, terrorist financing and wider […]
International Fraud Awareness Week: Why law firms must strengthen their defences
Facebook Linkedin Instagram International Fraud Awareness Week: Why law firms must strengthen fraud defences Whilst AML controls and compliance are at the forefront of most COLPs’ and MLROs’ minds, fraud continues to be one of the most disruptive and costly risks facing UK law firms. And while fraud often overlaps with money laundering, fraud risks […]
Celebrating 15 years of supporting law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Celebrating 15 years of supporting law firms This year we’re celebrating 15 years of working with law firms across England, helping them adapt, grow, and thrive in an ever-changing legal world. Over that time, the sector has seen some big shifts, including landmark laws like the Bribery Act 2010 and Equality Act […]
Compliance Lifeline | November 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • November 2025 Welcome to this month’s edition of Compliance Lifeline from Enderley Consulting — and a very happy 15th birthday to us! 🎉 For fifteen years we’ve been supporting law firms and professional-services organisations to stay ahead of regulatory change, improve their controls and convert compliance obligations into business […]
SRA thematic review of source of funds and source of wealth compliance
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA thematic review of source of funds and source of wealth compliance On 5 November 2025 Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) published its thematic review of source of funds and wealth compliance. When the Enderley team delivers independent AML audits and AML training to law firms, anxieties over source of funds (SOF) and […]
FCA to assume AML supervision of lawyers – what we know (and don’t know) so far
Facebook Linkedin Instagram FCA to assume AML supervision of lawyers – what we know (and don’t know) so far The ‘big announcement’ during the SRA COLP and COFA Conference in Birmingham last month – that the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) would assume sole responsibility for AML/CTF supervision of all regulated lawyers – sent shock waves […]
HMRC Tax Adviser Registration: New Rules from April 2026
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Tax advisers must register with HMRC and satisfy minimum standards It won’t have escaped the attention of accountancy firms and tax advisers across the land that from 1 April 2026, HMRC will require tax advisers to register and meet minimum standards. With the registration deadline set for 1 April 2026, firms have […]
SRA AML Annual Report 2024–25: Key Insights for COLPs, MLROs & Partners
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA AML Annual Report 2024–25: Key Takeaways for COLPs, Partners and MLROs The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has published its Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Annual Report 2024–25, and the findings are essential reading for law firm compliance officers, partners, and MLROs. Despite increased regulatory scrutiny, tougher supervision and record fines, one in three […]
An important date for your diary – changes to the UK sanctions list
Facebook Linkedin Instagram An important date for your diary – UK Sanctions lists to merge on 28 January 2026 What you need to know – and do – by then. From 9:00 am on Wednesday 28 January 2026, the UK Government will simplify how sanctions are published by combining the two current sanctions lists into […]
Changes to the FATF Black List and Grey List – October 2025 update
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Changes to the FATF Black List and Grey Lists – October 2025 Update On 24 October the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) published its latest list of high-risk jurisdiction subject to a Call for Action (the “Black List”) and jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring (the “grey list”). The FATF Black List – no […]
Mazur: Rethinking who can conduct litigation and what it means for your firm (5 November 2025)
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Mazur: Rethinking who can conduct litigation and what it means for your firm What is ‘Mazur’? The case of Mazur & Anor v Charles Russell Speechlys LLP [2025] EWHC 2341 (KB) – delivered on 16 September 2025 – continues to send shockwaves through the legal profession, and has left many law firms […]
Compliance Lifeline | September 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • September 2025 Yes, we know – drawing parallels between autumn and regulatory change is perhaps the most predictable seasonal metaphor in newsletter history. But while we may be guilty of embracing a bit of autumnal cliché here, we’re entirely serious about the compliance content that follows. This month’s newsletter […]
High-volume consumer claims – protecting your law firm from regulatory risk
Facebook Linkedin Instagram High-volume consumer claims – protecting your law firm from regulatory risk The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has made clear that the way the high-volume consumer claims market is operating is causing growing concern, with the potential for real consumer harm and wider damage to public trust in the legal profession. While these […]
Enderley Consulting welcomes Gavin Ball
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Enderley Consulting welcomes Gavin Ball to the team We are delighted at Enderley Consulting to welcome Gavin Ball to the team as a Senior Consultant in Financial Crime. Gavin has 20+ years as a Financial Crime Compliance professional with extensive experience working for top tier Professional Services firms and FTSE 100 organisations. […]
Fraud risk reviews – why are they needed and what are their benefits?
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Fraud risk reviews – why are they needed and what benefits do they provide? A fraud risk review, or fraud risk assessment, is a systematic process of identifying, analysing, and mitigating a firm’s vulnerability to fraudulent activities. It is a critical component of law firm risk management that allows practices to proactively […]
How the new ‘Failure to Prevent Fraud’ offence can apply to small law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The “Failure to Prevent Fraud Offence” – how it can be applied to smaller law firms and SME’s In September 2025, the UK’s new “failure to prevent fraud” offence came into force, holding large organisations criminally liable if they profit from fraud committed by an “associated person”. While smaller firms may not […]
SRA Continuing Competence 2025: Why everyday should be a school day for law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA Continuing Competence 2025: Why everyday should be a school day for law firms The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has published its 2025 annual assessment of continuing competence, building on insights from the 2024 report. This latest assessment signals a shift from guidance and encouragement to a more proactive and enforcement-focused approach, […]
SRA AML Sectoral Risk Assessment (2025 Update) – Important wake up call for law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA AML Sectoral Risk Assessment (2025 Update): Important wake up call for law firms On 31 July 2025, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) released its latest Sectoral Risk Assessment for Anti-Money Laundering (AML). This follows hot on the heels of the latest National risk assessment of money laundering and terrorist financing 2025 […]
Compliance Lifeline | July 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • July 2025 As we head into the height of summer, we hope you’re managing to enjoy some well-earned rest whatever you’re up to…whether that’s a proper getaway, a few peaceful days at home, or just a slightly quieter inbox (we can dream!). While the weather hasn’t quite caught up […]
A summer of change…
Facebook Linkedin Instagram A summer of change… Changes are afoot for the Solicitors Regulation Authority. What could this mean for the SRA and the wider legal profession? The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has announced a significant leadership change. Sarah Rapson, currently Executive Director of Supervision at the Financial Reporting Council (FRC), has been appointed as the […]
AML call-to-action – CLC & SRA’s advice on performing a strong Source‑of‑Funds check
Facebook Linkedin Instagram AML Call to Action: CLC & SRA’s advice on performing a Strong Source‑of‑Funds Check The Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) and the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) have both sounded fresh warnings that some firms are still doing “just enough to scrape by” when verifying the origin of client money. The CLC’s 27 May 2025 AML alert on […]
National Risk Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram National Risk Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing 2025 On 17 July 2025, HM Treasury published their National Risk Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing 2025 This weighty document (163 pages to be exact) evaluates the UK’s exposure to money laundering and terrorist financing threats, helping regulated sectors understand and […]
AI and the regulatory blind spot – AI risk perception in law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram AI and the regulatory blind spot – understanding AI risk perception in law firms On 2 July 2025, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) published new research exploring how small firms and sole practitioners (defined as firms with four or fewer partners and a turnover under £400,000) are adopting technology. The report pays […]
Is your law firm ready for the SRA’s 2025 AML data collection?
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Is your firm ready for the SRA’s 2025 AML data collection? Things law firms need to be aware of The SRAs annual AML data collection exercise is more than a regulatory hoop to jump through – it’s a litmus test of your firm’s compliance culture and readiness to prevent economic crime. From […]
FATF Black List and Grey List Updates – June 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram FATF Black List and Grey List Updates – June 2025 On 16 June the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) published its latest update to the lists of jurisdictions with strategic deficiencies in anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorist financing (CTF), and counter-proliferation financing (CPF) regimes. The FATF Black List – no change There have […]
Compliance Lifeline | June 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • June 2025 Hello and welcome to the June edition of Compliance Lifeline, where we explore the latest developments shaping compliance and risk management in the legal sector. In this issue, we delve into the critical importance of attendance notes, assess how law firms can strengthen their defences against cyber […]
SRA launches consultation about first tier complaints process
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA launches consultation about first tier complaints process The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has launched a consultation on proposed changes to its rules governing how law firms define and manage first-tier complaints, i.e. those made directly to the firm by clients. While the volume of complaints to law firms has risen in […]
What is the point of CQS??
Facebook Linkedin Instagram What is the point of CQS?? Results of a recent Legal Futures investigation have raised concerns about the efficacy of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditation for law firms, particularly in relation to anti-money laundering (AML) compliance. The article highlights the high percentage of firms that have been fined for AML breaches […]
The actions law firms can take to protect against cyber-attacks
Facebook Linkedin Instagram The dynamic actions law firms can take to protect against cyber-attacks In recent months, cyber attacks have surged across the UK and Europe, affecting a range of public and private sector organisations, including legal service providers. The recent attack on the Legal Aid Agency has been a stark reminder of the vulnerability […]
A timely reminder of the importance of attendance notes
Facebook Linkedin Instagram A timely reminder of the importance of attendance notes We’ve all had times when things don’t go the way we want them to, and client outcomes are not has hoped for. In litigation, the ultimate decision is usually not within our direct control. And then clients complain because they haven’t got the […]
Creating a culture of compliance
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Creating a culture of compliance Compliance is not just an annual series of refresher training sessions or something to react to when a competitor is hit with a fine and regulatory censure. Compliance is the foundation to good business and excellent client relations: a culture of compliance embeds compliance into everyday processes […]
SRA Diversity Data
Facebook Linkedin Instagram SRA Diversity Data – questionnaire now available COLPs, just a reminder that you will need to collect, report and publish your firm’s diversity data this summer. You can find the Firm Diversity Data Questionnaire 2025 here. The questionnaire was published by the SRA on 2 April, and the submission deadline has now […]
Law firm fined by ICO for data breaches
Facebook Linkedin Instagram ICO fine Liverpool law firm for data breach Can Ed help? Get in touch It’s not often that we write about ICO enforcements against law firms. The last was in August/September 2023. That’s probably because law firms generally have good information security protocols. However, a recent case concerning DPP Law (a Liverpool-based […]
Solicitors and Client Money Protection Schemes
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Solicitor firms and Client Money Protection Schemes Shropshire solicitors Harfitts recently had a deeply unpleasant surprise. They operated, in a small way, as property management agents for two landlords, collecting about £1,000 rent monthly from residential tenants. They received a fine of £19,250 (reduced on internal appeal to £8,400) from Shropshire Council […]
Sanctions threat assessments – essential reading for law firms
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Sanctions threat assessments – essential reading for law firms! Sanctions are generally less in the spotlight than AML, but sanctions compliance is equally important, and the two are often closely related. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 the UK sanctions landscape has changed dramatically. In April 2025, recognising the […]
From compliance to celebrations!
Facebook Linkedin Instagram From compliance to celebrations! A testament to trusted relationships At Enderley Consulting, we pride ourselves on the long-standing relationships we build with our clients. These go far beyond day-to-day compliance and regulatory support; they are built on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. One recent experience captured this perfectly. On 10 April, Ed […]
New LSAG Guidance: April 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram New LSAG Guidance April 2025 The latest version of the Legal Sector Affinity Group (LSAG) Guidance was approved by the Treasury and took effect from 23 April 2025. This replaces the Guidance issued in 2023 and the December 2023 Addendum. What has changed in the 2025 LSAG Guidance? Highlights include: Definition of […]
Compliance Lifeline | April 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • April 2025 Hello and welcome to the April edition of Compliance Lifeline. Alongside the some very important updates from both the Legal Sector Affinity Group, the release of threat assessments from the OFSI, the release of the SRAs biannual diversity survey and cautionary tales of two law firms receiving […]
Compliance Lifeline | March 2025
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Compliance Lifeline • March 2025 Hello and welcome to the March edition of Compliance Lifeline. This month we’re talking about a variety of topics that may well be causing you nagging concerns, plus a first-hand account from MLP Solicitors Ltd about the ways in which Enderley Consulting brought about a good night’s […]
Is your practice website SRA compliant AND optimised for SEO? We can help you get the balance right
Facebook Linkedin Instagram Is your practice website SRA complaint and optimised for SEO?? We can help you get the balance right. Is your law firm’s website fully compliant with SRA rules? And, just as importantly (but for different reasons), is it actually helping you be found online by potential clients? If you’re not sure, you’re […]