Russell-Cooke strengthens regulatory and disputes capability amid evolving AML landscape
Russell-Cooke has further strengthened its market-leading legal services regulatory offering with the appointment of Nigel West as a consultant, at a time of significant change across the legal sector.
Nigel joins from Weightmans, following the arrival of Susanna Heley last year as legal director, further enhancing the firm’s established reputation as a trusted adviser to law firms, partners and individuals navigating complex regulatory issues. Together, their appointments reflect growing client demand for specialist support as the regulatory landscape becomes increasingly complex and challenging.
The expansion comes against the backdrop of anticipated reforms to anti-money laundering (AML) supervision, with responsibility expected to transfer from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The shift is widely expected to bring a more rigorous and enforcement-focused approach, increasing pressure on firms to ensure their compliance frameworks are robust, defensible and fit for purpose.
Nigel West is a recognised expert in solicitors’ regulation and professional discipline, advising firms and individuals on SRA investigations and proceedings before the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.
We are seeing a marked increase in demand from clients seeking support with regulatory risk, investigations and compliance - particularly as the framework around AML supervision evolves. Nigel’s arrival, alongside Susanna’s appointment, further strengthens our ability to support clients at every stage, from preventative advice through to complex, high-stakes disputes. These are senior hires who bring not only deep technical expertise, but a clear understanding of the practical pressures faced by firms and individuals. That insight is critical in helping clients navigate what is becoming an increasingly complex and, at times, unforgiving regulatory environment.
Russell-Cooke has built a strong reputation for its regulatory work and its longstanding commitment to supporting legal professionals. With the regulatory landscape shifting - particularly in light of the FCA’s anticipated role in AML supervision - there is a clear need for pragmatic, experienced advisers who can guide clients through investigations and disciplinary proceedings, as well as compliance and governance issues. I’m delighted to be working with Susanna again and joining a team so well placed to support clients through these challenges.
Russell-Cooke’s regulation and public law team advises law firms and lawyers on a wide range of matters including SRA investigations, disciplinary proceedings, AML compliance, governance issues and wider regulatory litigation. The team also has long experience in acting for legal services regulators and professional bodies, which informs our advice when advising regulated firms and individuals.
Get in touch
If you would like to speak with a member of the team you can contact our regulation and public law solicitors by telephone on +44 (0)20 3826 7524 or complete our enquiry form.
