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Alexander Christian
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  • Anti-Money Laundering: Overview

    Anti-Money Laundering 

    Antii-Money Laundering - Regulation 21 Audit - Mock Audit- File Review - Staff Interviews
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"That which is measured improves..."

"That which is measured improves. That which is measured and reported improves exponentially." - Pearson's Law (Attributed)


While not directly about risk management, this principle highlights the importance of monitoring and evaluating risk management processes to drive continuous improvement

The concept emphasises that measuring and reporting on risk management activities leads to better outcomes


Anti-Money Laundering: Compliance Overview

Protect Your Business. Strengthen Your AML Framework.

Money laundering is the process of disguising the origins of illegally obtained funds—turning “dirty” money into something that appears legitimate. To prevent this, the UK government introduced the Money Laundering Regulations 2017, which set out clear legal obligations for individuals and businesses working in regulated sectors.


At Alexander Christian, we support regulated professionals and firms with practical, focused, and confidential Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance services. Whether you're seeking reassurance, preparing for an audit, or addressing gaps in your current AML compliance framework, we’re here to help.


In addition we are also holding Virtual AML Coffee Events - you can find out more about The Brew at the bottom of this page.

Schedule your 15-minute Chat - Subject to  Conditions
Schedule your 15-minute chat - Subject to Conditions *

Book your free 15-minute chat*

Practical AML Support for Regulated Professionals


Book your free 15-minute AML chat—take the first step toward confident compliance

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Strengthen Your AML Compliance Today - Initial Fixed-Fee Consultation

Is your AML compliance program truly robust? Don't leave it to chance. Discover how an independent internal audit can strengthen your AML Programme. 

Schedule your fixed-fee initial consultation now to discuss your specific needs and help improve your compliance.

Remember your AML compliance remains solely with you.

Contact us today to book your consultation and take the first step towards strengthening your AML defences.

Initial Fixed Consultation. Discussing your needs, your concerns and your Anti-Money Laundering Programme.
Initial Fixed Consultation. Discussing your needs, your concerns and your Anti-Money Laundering Programme.

Define Your AML Project Scope - Book Your Essential Scoping Meeting Now!

Ensure a thorough and well-defined AML project from the start. We'll work together to define precise AML project boundaries, establish clear AML objectives, and outline comprehensive deliverables in our essential scoping meeting. 


Remember: your firm retains full responsibility for its AML compliance. 


Schedule your essential scoping meeting today and lay the groundwork for a robust and well-structured AML project.

Scope of the Anti-Money Laundering Audit or other project.
Scope of the Anti-Money Laundering Audit or other project.

Ready for Your AML Audit? - Book a Mock Audit Now!

Proactively identify and address weaknesses in your AML programme with our comprehensive mock audit. This simulated review provides a examination of your policies, client due diligence, and staff understanding, helping you strengthen compliance and mitigate risks. 


Please note: Ultimate responsibility for AML compliance remains solely with your firm. 


Don't leave your firm exposed – book your mock audit now and take a crucial step towards robust AML preparedness!


(A Mock Audit is not a regulation 21 audit, under the Money Laundering Regulations)

Mock Audit, Firm Wide Risk Assessments, Policies, Controls & Procedures , and Client Matter Risk Assessments. Staff Training. Mock AML Internal Audit
Mock Audit, Firm Wide Risk Assessments, Policies, Controls & Procedures , and Client Matter Risk Assessments. File Reviews, Staff Training. Mock AML Internal Audit

Prepare for Regulatory Scrutiny: Book Your Regulation 21 AML Audit!

Navigating today's complex regulatory landscape requires a robust AML program. A Regulation 21(1)(c) Money Laundering Audit, mandated for regulated firms, demands an examination of your policies, controls, and procedures. 

Our audit goes beyond surface-level checks, providing a detailed evaluation and actionable recommendations to enhance your AML framework. 

Remember: While we facilitate the audit process, AML compliance is your firm's sole responsibility

Schedule a planning session today to learn how a Regulation 21 audit can drive continuous improvement and demonstrate your commitment to robust compliance.

Risk Assessments Policies Controls Procedures AML Internal Audit  Regulation  21 MLR 2017
Firm Wide Risk Assessments, Policies, Controls & Procedures, and Client Matter Risk Assessments. File Reviews. Staff Training. AML Internal Audit - Regulation 21 MLR 2017

AML Staff Interviews: Exposing Critical Governance Flaws to Regulators

Regulators will directly interview your staff and scrutinise your files. A lack of AML knowledge and poor policy implementation will be immediately apparent, revealing critical governance flaws within your firm. This will be a clear red flag to regulators about your firm's lack of insight and control. 


Don't let your firm's deficiencies become blatantly obvious. Schedule your comprehensive AML staff interviews today and proactively address potential governance failures.

Anti-Money Laundering Staff Interviews. AML  Training. Staff Understanding. Staff Implementation. Escalation. Internal Reporting. MLRO. Oversight. Governance.
Anti-Money Laundering Staff Interviews. AML Training. Staff Understanding. Staff Implementation. Escalation. Internal Reporting. MLRO. Oversight. Governance.

AML Training: Are You Truly Equipped? The Risks of Inadequate Training

AML training isn't a box-ticking exercise; it's a critical defence against financial crime. Ultimately, you, the client, are responsible for ensuring your staff receives targeted, firm-wide AML training that's relevant to their roles and your specific risks.


The Pain of Inadequate Training:

Imagine this: a regulatory audit reveals significant gaps in your staff's AML knowledge. Your team fails to identify red flags, leading to suspicious transactions slipping through the cracks. The result? Hefty fines, reputational damage, and potential criminal investigations.

  • Missed Red Flags: Untrained staff can't spot suspicious activity, leaving your firm vulnerable to money laundering.
  • Regulatory Penalties: Failure to provide adequate training is a direct violation of AML regulations, leading to substantial fines and sanctions.
  • Reputational Damage: A public breach of AML compliance erodes client trust and damages your firm's reputation.
  • Operational Inefficiency: Lack of understanding creates inconsistent and slow compliance processes.
  • Increased Risk: A poorly trained team makes your firm a prime target for financial criminals.

Beyond the Basics: Tailored Training and Robust Records

Effective AML training goes beyond generic presentations. It requires:

  • Specific Content: Training must be tailored to your firm's specific risks, products, and client base.
  • Role-Based Learning: Staff should receive training relevant to their specific responsibilities.
  • Up-to-Date Information: Training must reflect the latest regulatory changes and emerging threats.
  • Robust Records: You must maintain detailed records of all training provided, including attendance, content, and assessments.


Don't leave your firm exposed. Ensure your AML training is comprehensive, relevant, and properly documented.

Ready to strengthen your AML defences? Contact us today. Book a consultation to discuss your AML compliance staff training, staff understanding, and potential governance failures. 

Anti-Money Laundering Staff Interviews. AML  Training. Staff Understanding. Staff Implementation. Escalation. Internal Reporting. MLRO. Oversight. Governance.
Anti-Money Laundering Staff Interviews. AML Training. Staff Understanding. Staff Implementation. Escalation. Internal Reporting. MLRO. Oversight. Governance.

Is Your AML Implementation A Systemic Failure Waiting to Happen? Schedule Targeted File Reviews

It isn't enough that you have a firm wide risk assessment and policies, controls and procedure, implementation is a key part of your AML control programme. 


The fear of a systemic AML implementation failure is real. You have policies, but what about practice? 


Are your staff consistently applying your client matter risk assessment requirements? 


This is a core part of the control system and can not be ignored. 


Don't let systemic failures undermine your entire AML program. Schedule a targeted, bespoke AML file review today—firm-wide, departmental, or sample—and proactively address potential vulnerabilities.


Contact us today to book your assessment.

Anti-Money Laundering, Regulation 21, Internal Audit, Money Laundering Regulations
Anti-Money Laundering, Regulation 21, Internal Audit, Money Laundering Regulations. Firm Wide Risk Assessment. Policy, Controls and Procedures. Client Matter Risk Assessments. Escalation. High Risk Clients. MLRO Approvals. Training. Staff Interviews. Governance.

Focused AML Audit - Take Control of Your Known AML Gaps: Schedule a Strategic Focused Audit!

That persistent unease. 


The recurring feeling that something in your AML programme needs attention. Have those thoughts been lingering, ignored amidst the daily grind? 


Have you found yourself hoping for a break in your workload, setting deadlines that slip away, or simply procrastinating on addressing those nagging concerns?


Don't let uncertainty fester. Taking proactive steps now will lead to significant improvements and prevent potential crises.


Benefits of Proactive Action:

  • Reduced Regulatory Risk: Whilst you can't change the past you can now demonstrate your commitment to compliance
  • Enhanced Reputation: You can build trust with clients and stakeholders by showing you prioritise robust AML practices.
  • Increased Efficiency: You can streamline your AML processes by directly tackling your concerns, freeing up valuable time and resources.
  • Peace of Mind: Gain clarity and eliminate the stress of uncertainty by setting dedicated time to address your concerns and take decisive action.
  • Preventative Action: Avoid costly and disruptive reactive measures. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine.


Our Focused Area AML audits provide a strategic, targeted review of the specific areas you've identified, delivering the actionable insights you need to enhance your compliance program and eliminate those lingering doubts.


Reclaim control of your AML programme potential weaknesses. Schedule a confidential consultation today and strategically enhance your compliance efforts. Turn your uncertainty into confident action.


Focused Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Area Audits - Specific AML Reviews
Focused Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Area Audits - Specific AML Reviews

Why an external Independent Independent Audit maybe your next step: Avoid a Siloed Approach

Why an External, Independent AML Audit May Be Your Next Step: Avoid a Siloed Approach

In today's complex regulatory landscape, maintaining robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance is paramount. But are you truly seeing your programme with clear eyes? It's easy to develop a "rose-tinted" view when assessing 'your own work,' leading to missed gaps and potential vulnerabilities.


The Challenges of In-House AML Audits:

  • Siloed Perspective: Internal teams, deeply embedded in daily operations, can struggle to identify systemic weaknesses or blind spots.
  • "Marking Your Own Homework": A lack of independent scrutiny can result in overlooked issues, creating a false sense of security.
  • Uncertainty and Doubt: Even with the best intentions, internal teams may lack the  objective viewpoint needed for a truly comprehensive assessment.


The Advantages of an External, Independent AML Audit:

  • Objective and Unbiased Assessment: An external consultant brings a fresh perspective, free from internal biases and preconceived notions.
  • Gap Identification and Remediation: External audits pinpoint vulnerabilities and provide actionable recommendations for strengthening your AML programme.
  • Regulatory Confidence: Demonstrating a commitment to independent scrutiny reassures regulators and stakeholders of your dedication to compliance.
  • Best practice insight: External consultants work with many firms, and can provide best practice insight.


Avoid a Siloed Approach:

Don't let internal biases compromise your AML compliance. An external, independent audit provides the objective assessment you need to ensure your programme is robust and effective.


Ready to gain a clear and unbiased view of your AML compliance? Contact us today for a confidential consultation and discover how an external audit can strengthen your defences.

Rose Tinted, Marking Your Own Homework, Siloed Unconscious Bias
Focused Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Area Audits - Specific AML Reviews

Follow-Up: Implementation Reviews - Don't Let AML Audit Recommendations Gather Dust!

Are your AML audit recommendations truly making a difference? 


Are your AML audit recommendations just gathering dust? The harsh truth is, without regular implementation reviews, your hard-won audit findings become meaningless, leaving you vulnerable to regulatory penalties and eroding trust.


Imagine investing time and resources into an AML audit, only to see recommendations languish. Staff revert to old habits, policies remain unchanged, and your risk profile remains vulnerable. This is the painful reality of failing to conduct regular implementation reviews.


The consequences are clear:

  • Increased Regulatory Risk: Regulators expect to see tangible progress following an audit, not just good intentions.
  • Operational Inefficiencies: Untapped recommendations can lead to missed opportunities for improved compliance.
  • Erosion of Trust: Clients and stakeholders may lose confidence in your firm's commitment to AML best practices.


Don't let your AML audit be a hollow exercise. Transform recommendations into tangible compliance with our tailored implementation reviews.


We'll work with you to:

  • Assess the progress of your implementation efforts.
  • Uncover and resolve implementation roadblocks
  • Provide recommendations and support to ensure effective implementation.
  • Verify staff adherence to new procedures.


Stop the cycle of inaction. Schedule your confidential implementation review today and transform your AML audit recommendations into a robust compliance reality!

Implementation of recommendation. Continuous Cycle. Risk Management.
Implementation of recommendation. Continuous Cycle. Risk Management.

Remediation Assistance: Regulatory Remediation - Avoid Further Penalties - Address Your AML Deficiencies Now!

The regulator's findings of non-compliance serve as a critical wake-up call, demanding immediate and strategic action. Has your firm been mandated to conduct an independent review of client files, particularly regarding client matter risk assessments, source of funds, and high-risk indicators we can help you with our remediation services. 


This is not merely a reactive measure; it’s an opportunity to not only rectify the current situation, but also build a stronger, more resilient AML programme that anticipates and mitigates future risks. 


How we can help:

  • Conduct a thorough and independent review of your client files.
  • We will help you identify and rectify non-compliant practices.
  • We can help you to develop and implement robust corrective measures.
  • Provide documented evidence of your remediation efforts.
  • Help you prepare for future regulatory interactions.


Don't allow this setback to define your firm’s trajectory. 


Request a consultation to discuss how our bespoke remediation services can help you transform compliance challenges into a foundation for continuous AML improvement.

File Reviews
Remediation Assistance - File Reviews - Regulatory Request

Want a Fixed Fee AML Discussion?

For an informal discussion about your AML compliance, we offer a fixed-fee appointment. Please note, we cannot provide formal legal or regulatory advice. You remain responsible for your AML compliance. For definitive legal or regulatory guidance, please consult a qualified legal professional.

AML Fixed Fee Appointment
Anti-Money Laundering Fixed Fee Appointment

Watch this space

Keep an eye out for new Anti-Money Laundering services designed to further strengthen your compliance programme.

  • Call Us:  020 4578 4684
Please return to this website for Anti-Money Laundering Services and Courses, designed to support your AML continuous journey.
Please return to this website for Anti-Money Laundering Services and Courses, designed to support your AML continuous journey.

Why Choose Us

We Understand Law Firms

As a fellow lawyers, with decade of working in the profession, we understand the real-world challenges legal practices face—beyond the textbooks.

Qualified in Compliance

With an Internal Audit qualification from the ICA, other accreditations and memberships we offer a wider and holistic view

Tailored to You

No two firms are alike. Our audits are never generic—they're built around your size, structure, and specific risk profile.

Practical, Not Theoretical

Our focus is on what works in practice. You’ll receive realistic, actionable insights—not abstract thoughts

We will be holding regular Free Online Virtual Coffee Meets, to discuss AML Topics


Interested in Anti-Money Laundering? Join us!


Informal - very relaxed, informal conversation between friends

Convenient - Online - only 30minutes - just like a coffee break chat

Non-judgmental - We are all on a learning curve - open and frank exchange of insights and experience

Chatham House Rules - what is said at The Brew stays at the Brew

Free: There is no charge for the 30minute virtue coffee chats


Get your free tickets via Eventbrite


Key Blog Posts

Some blog posts you may find interesting

Alexander Christian - Key Takeaways
LSAG 25
LSAG 25

Key Takeaways to the latest version of the LSAG Guidance

Alexander Christian - Key AML Take aways
Key Take Aways from an Ex- Regulator
Key Takeaways from an Ex-regulator

Insights from a Former Regulator


Alexander Christian - Key Takeaways
OSFI - Legal Threat Assessment
OSFI Legal Services Threat

April 2025, OSFI published their Threat Assessment

Key Takeaways

We occasionally provide special offers subject to conditions to our AML Newsletter sign-ups.

Book your Free 15-minute chat  today!

Compliance Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Whether you're seeking an audit, or other services, we’re here to make compliance feel clear, manageable, and even empowering. 

No jargon. No pressure. Just support tailored to your business.

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Get in Touch at Any Time

Do not hesitate to contact us with any queries.

Alexander Christian

Harrow Business Centre

429-433 Pinner Road

North Harrow

Middlesex

Greater London

HA1 4HN

Phone : 020 4578 4684

www.alexanderchristian.co.uk