It is the firm’s policy that we will also require any funds that come into the firm to be paid by bank transfer or cheque. If a third party’s money is used, we will also require similar identification details for them. We are also obliged to determine the source of any funds utilised in or deriving from the transaction and this may involve asking the individual personal questions. In the event that any client, or third party, refuses to answer such questions, we must reserve the right to terminate the business relationship and the consequences set out below may then follow. You will still be liable for all our fees and expenses incurred up to the date of termination.

In the event that we become aware or suspect that a client is intending to utilise this firm for money laundering purposes (i.e. passing through our client account the proceeds of any criminal activity), then we are required by law to report the client to the National Crime Agency (NCA). NCA can pass the information received to any relevant body such as HM Revenue & Customs and an investigation may take place at any time in the future. Only to the extent required to enable us to comply with the law and file such reports, you agree to waive your privilege (i.e. confidentiality) rights with this firm. We are not permitted to inform clients that we have made such a report nor, once such a report has been made, are we able to speak to that client or anyone else involved in the transaction until we receive clearance from NCA, which may take anything up to 36 days to obtain.

NCA may even withhold permission for us to continue with the case. It follows from the above that, if you have any concerns about irregularities in your financial position, we strongly recommend that you seek specialist accountancy or welfare benefits advice to correct those irregularities before instructing us.