We listen more than we talk. Now that’s probably something you’ve never heard a lawyer say.
We’re a boutique firm and proud of it. Centrally located in the heart of the bustling Waikato, we’ve built our broad client base by delivering a highly responsive legal service that is all about successful client outcomes. Those successes start by listening to our clients to get a firm fix on their legal requirements.
At Ellice Tanner Hart we have a philosophy of constantly challenging our team of highly-competent, broadly experienced staff to be inquisitive, enquiring and to never settle for the status quo. We’re especially great at what we do, yet have the foresight to bring national specialists onto our project teams for the exceptionally technical work that arises from time to time.
Our promise to our clients is to make a world of difference with the legal services we provide. Whether you’re an individual, corporate, listed company or crown entity we will always strive to give more value than we take. No exceptions. We will do this with a spring in our stride and a smile on our dials. Because we love what we do. We hope you will too.
Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009 (“AML”)
To counter the impact of criminal activity in New Zealand the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009 (“AML”) was passed. To comply with this law every law firm is required to collect and verify certain information from existing and new clients with effect from 1 July 2018. If any suspicious activity is identified then it must be reported.
The purposes of the Act are:
to detect and deter money laundering and the financing of terrorism;
to maintain and enhance New Zealand’s international reputation by adopting recommendations issued by the Financial Action Task Force; and
to contribute to public confidence in the financial system.
CUSTOMER INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS
Before providing services to clients, lawyers must take reasonable steps to make sure the information they receive from clients is correct, and so they need to ask for documents that show this. To confirm these details, documents such as your driver’s licence or passport, and documents that show your address (e.g. a current bank statement or utility bill) will be required. Please help us with this by completing our New Client Information Form.
If you are seeing us about company or trust business, then, unless we already hold it, we will need information about the company or trust including the people associated with it (such as directors and shareholders, trustees and beneficiaries).
We may also need to ask you for further information including the nature and purpose of the proposed work you are asking us to do for you as well as the source of funds for any financial transactions we may be required to carry out on your behalf.
The AML applies to everyone so if we are not able to obtain the required information from you, we may be not be able to act for you.
If you have any queries or concerns regarding this please feel free to discuss these with the lawyer who will be undertaking your work.