For years, many law firms have treated the Conveyancing Quality Scheme has been seen as a badge of honour, renewed annually to keep lender panels satisfied and operations running smoothly. That approach may no longer be enough. The regulatory environment has changed. As of 2020 the Solicitors Regulation Authority started increasing its focus on anti… Read more: Is CQS accreditation a safety net or a false sense of security?

An independent AML audit shouldn’t be a frantic scramble to “clean up” files. True readiness means moving beyond basic documentation to ensure your internal capacity is prepared. By clearing calendars for interviews and pre-booking senior management reviews, you transform the audit from a stressful “check-box” exercise into a strategic health check. Don’t just show them your past; share your future risk roadmap to ensure your controls are built to last.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority has fined Andover based firm Ranson Houghton LLP, a total of 10,283 pounds following a settlement reached in March 2026. The issue: missing AML compliance frameworks Following an SRA AML Audit the regulator found that between 2017 and 2026 the firm did not maintain a compliant anti money laundering environment. In… Read more: Ranson Houghton LLP fined over AML failings