A solicitor suspects the money her client intends to put into the client account is criminal property. What should she do before dealing with the money?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Make an authorised disclosure to the NCA and get consent first, to avoid the principal offences
- Step 1: A solicitor handling suspected criminal property risks committing an offence under sections 327 to 329.
- Step 2: An authorised disclosure and consent, known as a defence against money laundering, protects the solicitor.
Answer
Make an authorised disclosure to the NCA and get consent first, to avoid the principal offences.
Why not the others: Telling the client risks tipping off; paying in first risks committing an offence; silence may breach the reporting duty.
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