We unpack the SRA’s updated COLP and COFA separation rules, including the meaning of unilaterally, the risk thresholds for client money and turnover, and why some firms may try to use governance tweaks as a workaround.

The discussion also explores the practical limits of paper compliance, the rule 8.7 exemption for exceptional transactions, and whether real oversight can survive when liability is pushed onto junior staff.

Show Notes

• SRA | Strengthening effective oversight | Solicitors Regulation Authority: https://www.sra.org.uk/news/blogs/strengthening-effective-oversight-protect-public/

This episode breaks down the surge in AI misuse reports to the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the growing fallout from unchecked hallucinated citations in court filings. It also examines how pasting client material into open AI tools can breach confidentiality and permanently waive legal professional privilege.

Show Notes

• SRA | Misuse of AI - Warning notice | Solicitors Regulation Authority: https://www.sra.org.uk/solicitors/guidance/misuse-ai/

This episode breaks down the 2026 UK AML amendments, including the narrower Enhanced Due Diligence trigger, new documentation expectations for risk rationale, and the updated rules for pooled client accounts. It also covers the removal of the trust register exemption for older non-UK trusts and the shift from euro-based thresholds to pound sterling across compliance materials.

Show Notes

• What the MLR 2026 Amendments Mean for Law Firms and Conveyancers  - Credas: https://credas.com/news/what-the-mlr-2026-amendments-mean-for-law-firms-and-conveyancers/

This episode explores how close personal relationships can undermine professional judgment, from drafting wills that benefit the solicitor’s own family to skipping AML and conflict checks for friends and relatives. It also covers the risks of acting for yourself, including misuse of firm resources, intimidation concerns, and when to send the matter to an independent solicitor.

Learn how to avoid the optimism trap by managing client expectations and providing high-clarity updates that reduce regulatory risks. Andre Grayson and Paul Crowther share practical frameworks for proactive communication and strategies for early escalation when relationships become strained.

This episode breaks down the real cost of getting right to work checks wrong, from civil penalties to criminal exposure, and explains why simply seeing an ID on video is not enough. It also covers the three valid 2026 check routes, including when certified IDSPs can be used and what employers must still verify themselves.

Explore the rising phishing risks targeting law firms and their impact on compliance. Learn practical techniques to spot suspicious emails and discover effective response strategies backed by real-world legal examples.

Explore the key challenges faced by compliance officers including knowledge gaps, resource strains, and wellbeing risks. Learn practical strategies to improve regulatory competence, share compliance responsibilities, and foster a supportive firm culture for better governance.