The compliance of science
The Law Society’s existing AML supports contain helpful aids, tips, practice notes, and general information necessary to ensure compliance. Tina Beattie and Riona Leahy show us the ropes
Solicitors who are currently in compliance with their statutory anti-money laundering (AML) duties will already be in compliance with the newly introduced Solicitors (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) (Amendment) Regulations 2026.
These regulations simply reflect an update to the current statutory obligations (see the note on SI 367 of 2026 by Dr Niall Connors, director of regulation, on p60 of the Aug/Sept Gazette).
Whether you are new to solicitor AML compliance or need a refresher, the Law Society’s existing AML supports contain helpful aids, tips, practice notes, and general information necessary to ensure compliance.
Updated regularly, key AML resources are accessible any time through the Law Society AML Hub (www.lawsociety.ie/aml).
Free training
Solicitors can avail of updated, free Law Society AML training designed to help solicitors comply with their statutory AML duties, currently available by visiting the Law Society LegalED Talks Hub. Two separate training videos can be accessed by logging in to the hub:
- Training on core AML requirements, the current statutory framework, and real-life scenarios that solicitors in practice may encounter, and
- A specific video on filing suspicious transaction reports (STRs) and using the goAML and ROS systems.
Each training video is 90 minutes long and attracts CPD points. In addition, the Law Society’s AML unit has contributed to training for non-solicitor staff in legal practices, with a training video available for general viewing.
Date for your diary
Webinar on sanctions – 11am on Thursday 26 November 2026: in their role as competent authorities for sanctions in Ireland, the Central Bank of Ireland and the Department of Trade and Enterprise are running a free webinar specifically designed to assist solicitors navigating sanctions as part of AML client due diligence.
AML Helpline
The AML Helpline supports solicitors in identifying potential money-laundering risk and navigating complex compliance considerations.
While the Law Society cannot provide legal advice nor confirm the adequacy of AML documentation/approach in specific scenarios, the AML Helpline endeavours to assist solicitors in swiftly navigating relevant AML guidance.
This service is available via email (aml@lawsociety.ie) and by telephone on 01 879 8788.
By its nature, AML compliance is complex and can be challenging for solicitors as designated persons.
Developing a good understanding of legal-sector money-laundering risk is vital to adopting the risk-based approach to preventing money-laundering and also ensuring effective AML compliance.
Thematic review 2026
All firms received a notification from the director of regulation last July announcing an AML thematic review. The deadline date (30 September 2026) for submission of the form, which was sent to firms with a copy of their business risk assessment, has now passed.
If you overlooked responding on time, please act now and send the required response to AMLThematicReviews@lawsociety.ie. A report outlining key findings will be issued following the review.
Tina Beattie is head of AML and Riona Leahy is AML executive at the Law Society of Ireland.