An outline of AML/CTF resources to date
Law practices providing a designated service now have obligations under the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006 (Cth) (AML/CTF Act). Here is an outline…
Strengthening your legal practice part 3 – Supervision, the glue to effective compliance
Appropriate supervision and oversight of legal services are at the heart of legal practice regulatory compliance.
Contingency fees in NSW: A refresher for solicitors
Contingency fees have long been prohibited in NSW, reflecting the fundamental ethical principle that solicitors should not acquire a direct financial interest in the outcome…
Different ways to practise law as a solicitor: Consultants, Independent Contractors and Locums
The Professional Support Unit often hears from solicitors asking whether there are other ways of practising law, outside of being directly employed by a law…
Receiving trust money? What every law practice needs to do
Holding trust money is one of the most important professional responsibilities of any law practice. Before receiving trust money, you must have the systems, processes…
Looking at the bigger picture: AML/CTF Act compliance and billing practices under the Uniform Law
The anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) regime has introduced a new set of compliance obligations for law practices, and with them, a new question: Can the…
Managing client expectations: five essential conversations to avoid professional negligence claims
What clients want or expect from your services or the legal system is sometimes different to what is achievable by you or at law.
Guidance on management of safe custody documents – a never ending obligation?
Managing safe custody documents (such as original Wills, Deeds, Powers of Attorney, and Certificates of Title) places a strict legal obligation on solicitors. Unlike standard…
Reasonable supervision in the court room
The recent case of Titus & Ksenia was the first in two decades to take a fresh look at the concept of ‘reasonable supervision’, found…
Sending trust money overseas: what NSW practitioners need to know
International transactions are now a routine part of legal practice. Whether distributing estate funds, transferring settlement proceeds, paying overseas beneficiaries or completing commercial transactions, many…
I am a solicitor who suffers stress and persistent anxiety, how can I survive without risking my job?
Solicitors are a dedicated lot, always working hard and focused on their work every waking minute of their professional lives. Being dedicated, focused and diligent,…