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20 May 2022 / Tom Bedford , Christopher Dyke
Issue: 7979 / Categories: Features , Profession , International
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Ukraine: SLAPPing down on sanctions

Tom Bedford & Chris Dyke examine the regulatory consequences for firms arising from the war in Ukraine
  • Firms would be well-advised to stay abreast of SRA sanctions guidance and ensure they are complying with their obligations, particularly where there are money laundering or sanctions risks in continuing to act for an individual.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has prompted some in the profession to consider whether it is right to accept instructions which may be contrary to their own values, or those of society. What about those firms who say that the rule of law entitles everyone to legal representation? Can they continue to do so without fear of consequences? On top of that, how have firms responded to the new sanctions rules? Can firms continue to act for Russian nationals?

Certain parts of the profession have a reputation for acting for Russian oligarchs, with access to sufficient financial resources to enable them to use English jurisdiction to further their interests both here and abroad.

We are sure

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NEWS
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Plans to reduce jury trials risk missing the real problem in the criminal justice system. Writing in NLJ this week, David Wolchover of Ridgeway Chambers argues the crown court backlog is fuelled not by juries but weak cases slipping through a flawed ‘50%’ prosecution test
Emerging technologies may soon transform how courts determine truth in deeply personal disputes. In this week's NLJ, Madhavi Kabra of 1 Hare Court and Harry Lambert of Outer Temple Chambers explore how neurotechnology could reshape family law
A controversial protest case has reignited debate over the limits of free expression. In NLJ this week, Nicholas Dobson examines a Quran-burning incident testing public order law
The courts have drawn a firm line under attempts to extend arbitration appeals. Writing in NLJ this week, Masood Ahmed of the University of Leicester highlights that if the High Court refuses permission under s 68 of the Arbitration Act 1996, that is the end
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