Your firm is more than a business. It is the product of your judgment, your reputation, and years of hard work serving clients with integrity.

Regulation 21(1)(c) of the Money Laundering Regulations 2017 requires firms — where appropriate to their size and risk profile — to commission an independent audit of their AML systems.

This is not a box-ticking exercise. It is a safeguard that protects what you’ve built:

• Your standing with the SRA – avoiding surprises during inspections

• Your reputation – demonstrating integrity to clients, peers, and regulators

• Your peace of mind – knowing your framework is not only compliant, but resilient

The SRA now frequently asks for evidence of a Regulation 21 audit at the outset of inspections. Recent enforcement shows that failing to comply can result in:

• Heightened regulatory scrutiny

• Fines and disciplinary action

• Reputational damage

• Costly, time-bound remediation

In short: not having an audit invites greater risk than undertaking one.

An external, proportionate review provides:

• Confidence in your AML framework
• Early identification of blind spots
• Demonstration of robust governance
• A culture of continuous improvement

We offer a service shaped to your firm:

1. Discovery & Scoping – understanding your structure, services, and risk profile

2. Document & File Review – policies, procedures, and client matters

3. Interviews & Testing – assessing how controls work in practice

4. Audit Report – clear recommendations, prioritised for impact

5. Follow-Up Support – optional, to help you implement with confidence

No jargon. No judgment. Just practical assurance that safeguards your practice.