Frequently Asked Questions

A compliance consultant ensures your organization can demonstrate control. Not just good intentions. Not just policies in a folder. We assess risk exposure, identify control gaps, align governance structures, and implement compliance frameworks that withstand regulatory scrutiny. Documentation matters. Evidence matters. Accountability matters.

That’s where we operate.

A defensible risk assessment includes:

• Identification of inherent risk (financial, operational, regulatory, reputational)
• Evaluation of existing controls
• Residual risk analysis
• Clear documentation of methodology
• Senior-level accountability

In AML specifically, regulators expect a formal, written, risk-based assessment tied directly to your compliance regime. If it cannot be explained clearly, it cannot be defended

Because regulators do not assess what you meant to do. They assess what you documented and implemented.

Strong policies:

• Assign accountability
• Define escalation thresholds
• Align to legislation
• Reflect actual operational practice
• Evolve as regulation evolves

Outdated policies signal stagnant oversight. That invites scrutiny. We develop compliance frameworks designed to function in practice, not just pass a document review.

Yes! AML and financial crime compliance are our core speciality. But our regulatory exposure does not stop there. We also support:

• Enterprise compliance frameworks
• Governance and board advisory
• Data privacy alignment (including PIPEDA)
• Third-party risk management
• Regulatory review preparation
• Internal investigation advisory

AML is our depth. Compliance is our discipline.

AML compliance under the PCMLTFA carries:

• Mandatory reporting obligations
• Structured program requirements
• Biennial effectiveness reviews
• Significant administrative monetary penalties
• Public naming in enforcement actions

FINTRAC expects reporting entities to demonstrate a functioning compliance regime, not simply policies on paper. If your AML program cannot withstand independent review, it is a liability

Absolutely. Many enforcement actions involve smaller reporting entities, mortgage brokers, accountants, real estate professionals and other gatekeepers. Regulators apply proportional expectations, not optional expectations. Many businesses have components of compliance, such as KYC onboarding software, but lack Risk assessments and or policies and procedures.

The size of your business does not reduce your obligation to demonstrate control.

.An independent review evaluates whether your compliance program is:

• Adequately designed
• Effectively implemented
• Operating as intended

It identifies blind spots before a regulator does.Internal familiarity often normalizes weakness. Independent oversight restores objectivity.

If you are unsure whether:

• Your risk assessment reflects current operations
• Your policies align with evolving regulations
• Your reporting obligations are being met correctly
• Your governance structure is defensible
• Your AML program would survive scrutiny

Then you likely need clarity. Regulatory comfort should be earned and never assumed.