AUDIT
This service provides an annual audit at the firm's premises to check
client care issues and compliance with the Solicitor’s Code of Conduct
issued by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Areas covered in a typical audit include: Money laundering and conflict
of interest procedures; costs information and client care; any issues
arising from the firm’s client care letters; and Rule 5 Business
management procedures; an assessment of the firm's office manual. Other
issues covered, if appropriate, might include Rule 9 Referrals of
business (formerly the Solicitors’ Introduction and Referral Code);
Rule 19 Financial services: Rule 21 Separate businesses (formerly the
Solicitors’ Separate Business Code); and Solicitors’ Accounts Rules.
Following discussion, the nature of the audit will be adjusted to suit
the circumstances and the legal areas covered by the firm. The audit
option also includes a free telephone compliance advice service
available to all fee earners for one year following the final day of
the visit.
This service may suit firms wishing to compare their current procedures
with the new Code of Conduct, those wishing to have their procedures
checked prior to a visit by the Practice Standards Unit and those
wishing to conduct an audit as part of Rule 5 compliance.
Please contact me, should you wish to discuss how an audit might assist your firm.
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