SRA prosecution failures, a grab for interest on client accounts and a renewed focus on compliance roles – catch up on this month’s top news for risk and compliance professionals

1. SRA takes action on PM Law closure

Today’s Conveyancer

Following the recent closure of PM Law and its subsidiary firms, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has confirmed it has formally intervened and will take control of all documents, papers and monies, including client money, held by the firm.

2. Mail fail: SDT dismisses allegation against third immigration sting solicitor

Gazette

The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal has cleared a third solicitor named in a Daily Mail report involving undercover journalists pretending to seek help for asylum claims.

3. City lawyer overturns £50k fine for ‘without prejudice’ email

The High Court has overturned the finding of misconduct made about a solicitor acting for former Conservative Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi.

4. High volume claims: SRA investigates 72 firms

Gazette

The SRA has upped the pressure on high-volume claims firms amid continued concerns that clients are being treated unfairly. The regulator issued a formal warning on so-called no win, no fee agreements after inspections of 72 firms.

5. Early resolution of complaints is the best possible approach, LeO finds

The Legal Ombudsman sets out practical steps for legal service providers to resolve complaints at first tier through clear communication, timely responses and proportionate remedies.

6. Cost of SRA investigation and enforcement work soars to £23m

The SRA has published a series of annual reports saying the cost of investigations and enforcement has spiralled by 61% over six years.

7. MoJ eyes client account interest held by law firms

Law Society

The Ministry of Justice is consulting on proposals to divert interest from law firms’ client accounts to specific access-to-justice projects.

8. UK moves to a single sanctions list

Propertymark

From 28 January 2026, the UK Sanctions List became the single authoritative source for UK sanctions screening.

9. SRA thematic review finds some COLPs have poor knowledge of obligations

Law Society

Some legal compliance officers lack a full understanding of their regulatory obligations and their reporting and record-keeping requirements, according to research by the SRA.