Information for Clients of the Law Firm about AML

Why We Ask for Your Information

As lawyers, we have a legal obligation to prevent money laundering and financing of terrorism. Before concluding a contract and during the provision of services, we must verify your identity, understand the purpose of the requested service, and in some cases verify the source of funds. This is not distrust – it is our duty by law.

When We Must Identify and Verify the Client

  • at financial or property transactions (e.g., purchase/sale of real estate, client escrow),
  • if something substantial changes during the cooperation (e.g., company owner, transaction scope),
  • when we assess increased risk (e.g., complex ownership structure, foreign element).

How Identity Verification (KYC) Takes Place

In Person at the Office

You will present a valid identity card (ID card/passport). We will copy the mandatory details, including copies/scans of documents.

Remotely

We use secure remote identification methods (e.g., bank identity/BankID, qualified signature or data box). You will receive a simple step-by-step guide.

What Information and Documents We Usually Request

Natural Person (Non-Entrepreneur)

  • valid ID card or passport,
  • basic contact details,
  • purpose of the requested service and expected course.

Entrepreneur / Self-Employed

  • ID card/passport,
  • Company ID, basic business information,
  • service purpose.

Legal Entity (Company, Association, Foundation, etc.)

  • name, Company ID, registered office, statutory bodies,
  • current extract from the register (e.g., commercial register),
  • information about the beneficial owner (beneficial owner) – often a simple statement and ownership structure diagram,
  • for trusts/foundations: founding documents, trustee details and beneficiaries.

Additional Depending on the Nature of the Matter

  • statement on whether you are a politically exposed person (PEP),
  • explanation of the source of funds for more significant transactions (e.g., mortgage loan, savings, asset sale; verifiable by account statement, contract, etc.).

What Does 'Ongoing Monitoring' Mean

During the cooperation period, we keep the data current and check if they correspond to the nature of the services provided. If something changes (address, ownership structure, financing), please inform us.

When We Cannot Provide the Service to You

If we cannot perform the legal verification, find the beneficial owner or dispel serious doubts about the source of funds, we cannot provide the legal service or continue it. Similarly, we must refuse cooperation if there is a risk of circumventing sanctions or other legal obligations.

Protection and Processing of Your Data (GDPR)

  • Legal basis: fulfillment of the lawyer's legal obligation (not marketing).
  • Scope: only data necessary for AML.
  • Sharing: we do not share data with third parties except in cases required by law (e.g., request from a state authority).
  • Retention: we retain for the legal period, usually up to 10 years from the end of the relationship/transaction.
  • Your rights: you have the right to information about processing; some rights (e.g., erasure) may be limited by the legal obligation to retain.

Attorney-Client Privilege and Reporting Obligation

We are bound by confidentiality. In some situations, however, we have a legal obligation to report suspicious transactions to the Financial Analytical Office. This obligation does not apply to information obtained during defense or assessment of the client's legal position in court or similar proceedings. Protection of your rights is paramount for us.

Fees

Standard identification is included in the framework of the provided service. In more complex cases (extensive structures, foreign elements, extensive document verification), we will inform you in advance about any costs.

Quick Checklist for First Contact

  • Valid ID card or passport
  • Basic description of what you need help with
  • For companies: register extract and beneficial owner details
  • For transactions: brief information about the source of funds (e.g., loan, savings)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do You Have to Copy My ID?

Yes, in justified cases we prove that identification took place. Copies are protected the same as other personal data.

I'm a PEP – What Does That Mean for Me?

It's not an obstacle. We just have to take enhanced measures (more thorough verification, ongoing checks).

Can I Handle Everything Remotely?

In most cases yes – we offer several secure remote identification methods. Just ask us for instructions.

What If I Don't Provide the Information?

Without fulfilling AML obligations, unfortunately, we cannot provide you with legal services.

Contact for AML Questions

Email: kancelar@akandree.eu | Tel.: +420 605 817 914

(Please do not send sensitive documents unprotected by email. We will gladly send you a secure way to submit them.)

Note: This text is informational. The specific procedure may depend on the nature of your services and current legal requirements. Last update: September 15, 2025.

CZ