Julie Dao

I am an Associate Chartered Legal Executive in our Regulatory and Criminal Investigations team. I advise individuals and businesses on a wide range of financial crime, regulatory investigations and compliance matters.

Regulatory Compliance

I have significant experience advising on anti-money laundering (AML) obligations and broader compliance requirements. My work includes:

• Conducting AML audits and drafting compliance policies for regulated firms
• Advising on Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) and reporting obligations.

Examples of work:

• Assisted a financial services firm in implementing a robust AML framework following an FCA review
• Drafted AML policies for a firms who are AML supervised or seeking supervision/authorisation.

Financial Crime

I regularly advise on matters under the Proceeds of Crime Act and related legislation. I help clients manage risks and respond to enforcement action. My experience includes:

• Account freezing orders and restraint proceedings
• Confiscation and asset recovery cases
• Advising on bribery, corruption and fraud investigations.

Examples of work:

• Represented an individual subject to an account freezing order, securing the release of funds
• Acted in a complex fraud case involving multi-agency investigation.

Regulatory Investigations/Prosecutions

I support clients facing investigations by agencies such as the Serious Fraud Office, HMRC and the police. I provide strategic advice to protect clients’ interests and minimise disruption.

Examples of work:

• Assisted a professional services firm during an SRA investigation into AML compliance
• Advised a gaming operator under Gambling Commission scrutiny for regulatory breaches
• Represented individuals being prosecuted by Companies House.

Sectors

My clients operate across a wide range of sectors, including:

• Estate agents and high-value dealers
• Gaming and gambling operators
• Financial services firms
• Cryptoasset businesses.

My sector knowledge allows me to deliver practical, tailored advice that meets the specific regulatory challenges faced by each industry.

Publications

Anti-money laundering warning to firms

UK AML 2025: Supervision Reforms and Regulatory Shakeup