John Eaves eloquently expresses those worries with which most of the profession will share in relation to the money laundering regulations (see [2004] Gazette, 1 April, 16).

We need guidance from the Law Society on what should be included in our client-care letters.

Surely the client is entitled to know of the obligations that the government has imposed on us? If we tell him that we are bound to report facts that lead us to suspect money laundering, we can hardly be accused of tipping-off, if we have not at that stage received such information.

Undoubtedly, however, we shall be accused of telling the client that we do not want to hear anything that is a little dodgy.

On the other hand, such a warning might persuade a potential miscreant to take his business elsewhere, or even to deal honestly.

Michael Timms, MR Timms & Company, Dudley