AML Checks for Law Firms

AML checks for law firms are a critical part of regulatory compliance in the UK legal sector. Solicitors and legal practices are required to carry out robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks to verify client identity, assess financial crime risk, and comply with statutory obligations before establishing a client relationship. Our AML checks support compliant client onboarding across conveyancing, property, corporate, and private client matters.

AML checks are identity verification and risk-screening processes designed to prevent money laundering, terrorist financing, and fraud. For law firms, these checks form part of Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and, where higher risk is identified, Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD). Typical AML checks for law firms include:

• Identity verification
• Address and mortality checks
• UK credit agency checks
• Sanctions screening
• Politically Exposed Person (PEP) checks
• Biometric and liveness verification
• Beneficial ownership checks for companies

Why AML Checks are mandatory for law firms:

UK law firms are regulated under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017, alongside guidance from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Because law firms regularly handle client funds, property transactions, and complex legal structures, they are considered high-risk gateways to the financial system. Failure to conduct appropriate AML checks can result in regulatory fines, disciplinary action, reputational damage, and in serious cases, criminal liability.

We provide the following AML searches;

iD-Bronze – Non-Biometric AML Check:

• Address and mortality data
• UK credit agency records
• PEPs and sanctions databases

This is an office-based search that does not require the individual client to do anything. The report is available within within seconds of ordering. In the event of a problem, we provide clear recommendations on how to proceed. This search is typically used when a lawyer has met the client face-to-face. Cost: £2.50 + VAT

iD-Silver – Biometric AML Check

iD-Silver is a biometric product that fulfils the same role as iD-Bronze but requires the individual to:

• Take a selfie
• Upload a photograph of their passport or driving licence

The completed report is returned once the individual has uploaded their details. This is a general-use biometric AML product widely adopted across the legal profession, particularly for remote onboarding. Cost: £8.30 + VAT

iD-Gold – Biometric & Safe Harbour ID Check

Gold is built upon the Silver product and includes:

• Address and mortality checks
• UK credit agency data
• PEPs and sanctions screening
• Biometric liveness checks anchored to a passport or driving licence

In addition, the individual must upload documents linking them to a property address. This is sufficient to meet Safe Harbour Guidelines and, in the event of an issue, indemnifies the law firm against action from HM Land Registry. This makes iD-Gold particularly suitable for conveyancing and property transactions. That said, conveyancing practices will often chose Silver to fulfil their obligations. Cost: £10.00 + VAT

What sets our AML checks apart:

The majority of biometric ID checks result in a “pass”, but what sets us apart from the competition is that every result is individually assessed. Additionally, we also deal directly with the client to help facilitate their ID check. We do this so the individual doesn't take up your fee earners time by calling your offices.   

Ultimately, our role is to understand human nature, as well as the regulatory requirements, and to provide a fast, technologically advanced AML system that saves lawyers time, reduces compliance risk, and supports efficient client onboarding. 

If you would like to discuss our AML services and require a demonstration please either email idchecks@legalbrokers.com, or call 0345 603 0708.

Legal Brokers Ltd

AML Search reports for law firms