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.