Independent, compliant reporting for law firm client accounts

Law firms in Jersey are required by the Law Society of Jersey to obtain an annual report under Agreed Upon Procedures (AUP), also known as the AR47 report. This provides assurance that client monies are properly handled in accordance with the Law Society’s Accounts Rules.

Our Expertise

At BCR, our team of experts provide independent, accurate, and timely AR47 reports tailored to the unique structure and scale of each legal practice.

Our Approach

The AR47 process is a key part of the Law Society’s framework to protect client funds and uphold public confidence in Jersey’s legal profession. It requires external verification of a firm’s compliance with the Solicitors’ Accounts Rules and specific procedures on the handling of client money. Errors or non-compliance can lead to reputational damage, regulatory investigation, and in serious cases, disciplinary action.

A robust AR47 report not only ensures regulatory compliance but also offers partners and compliance officers the confidence that internal controls are functioning as intended.

When to Seek Advice:

• As part of your annual regulatory reporting cycle.
• If your firm is undergoing structural changes, growth, or system upgrades.
• After any suspected or reported breach of the Accounts Rules.
• When onboarding a new Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), Money Laundering Compliance Officer (MLCO), or Compliance officer.

Our Services

We provide support for the following:

• Delivery of AR47 reports in line with the Law Society’s specified format and scope.
• Review of client account reconciliations, ledger postings, and transfer procedures.
• Confirmation of interest calculations, segregation of funds, and suspense account management.
• Advisory support in improving internal controls and rectifying breaches.
• Pre-year end reviews for firms seeking early assurance of compliance.
• Coordination with internal finance teams or outsourced bookkeeping providers.

Our Values in Action

Excellence: Each report is delivered to the highest technical and ethical standards.
Delivery: Timely submission ahead of regulatory deadlines.
Respect: Confidentiality and discretion with sensitive client and financial data.
Elegance: Clear, useful reports that add value beyond compliance.

Why BCR Pro

• Trusted by Jersey law firms of all sizes for AR47 and regulatory compliance work.
• Independent team with deep understanding of the Law Society rules and local risk environment.
• Seamless coordination with internal finance and compliance functions.
• Practical advice tailored to the realities of running a law firm in Jersey.