Is an in-house solicitor an ‘independent legal professional’ under the Money Laundering Regulations?
I’m a solicitor employed by a local authority. Am I an ‘independent legal professional’ as defined by the Money Laundering Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017?
No. The definition of an ‘independent legal professional’ in regulation 12(1) includes a solicitor working in a firm or a sole practitioner who by way of business provides legal or notarial services to other persons.
It does not include solicitors employed by a public authority or working in-house (unless that organisation provides legal services to external clients).
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Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this article, it does not constitute legal advice and cannot be relied upon as such. The Law Society does not accept any responsibility for liabilities arising as a result of reliance upon the information given.
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