Money laundering and serious fraud task force - vacancies for membership

The Law Society's money laundering and serious fraud task force is concerned with helping solicitors cope with the rapidly changing money laundering regime.

Another job of the task force is to explain the role of solicitors to policy makers.

The task force has been heavily involved with lobbying in respect of the Second European Money Laundering Directive, and continues to be involved with the domestic implementation of the directive through the government's money laundering advisory committee.

The task force has also closely followed the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, lobbying government and briefing MPs on the Society's concerns.

The task force is currently drafting guidance for solicitors about the new requirements.

Task force members assist with individual solicitors' enquiries about their professional duties to their clients, and legal duty to report.

Solicitors can initially seek advice from the Society's professional ethics team, and task force members support this function.

The task force currently has three vacancies for practitioners with expertise in money laundering legislation and/or prevention, preferably coupled with expertise in another area of commercial practice.

Applications are particularly sought from practitioners with skills or experience in corporate or trust practice, or of commercial litigation.

Applications from money laundering reporting officers, or from others who have had an involvement in implementing anti-money laundering systems, would be particularly welcome.

The task force usually meets four times a year.

Applicants should have an active interest in law reform and be able to offer practical, confidential advice to solicitors, which is often required urgently.

Applications are welcome from all those with enthusiasm, expertise, and time, irrespective of sex, race, colour, age, sexuality, religion or disability.

Appointments will be made following a selection process, which will include interviews of shortlisted candidates.

For an application pack, contact Theresa Hansen, the Law Society, Ipsley Court, Berrington Close, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 OTD; tel: 01527 517141 ext 3613; fax: 0207 320 5897; e-mail: theresaann.hansen@ lawsociety.org.uk

The closing date for applications is 31 January 2003, and interviews will take place on 18 February 2003.