Disciplinary outcome: Janet Abel

Janet Abel's conduct was found to be in breach of the Code of Professional Ethics and to have posed a risk to the public and/or undermine public confidence in the Association and its members as follows:

1. For an unknown period up until on or around 28 March 2023, she provided Financial Accounting and Accounts Preparation for Statutory Purposes whilst not licensed to do so
2. For an unknown period up until on or around 02 March 2023 she did not comply with her obligations under the Money Laundering Regulations in force while providing accountancy and/or related services on a self-employed basis. Specifically, she failed to:
   a. have documented anti-money laundering (AML) policies and procedures in place
   b. verify the identity of one or more clients
   c. document a risk assessment for new clients 
   d. carry out any or any adequate ongoing review of risk for existing clients 
   e. undertake adequate AML training 
   f. carry out any or any adequate compliance review of her firm’s AML procedures.
3. She failed to issue a letter of engagement to one or more clients in full compliance with AAT’s Client Care Policy. 
4. She failed to have in place a continuity of practice agreement in full compliance with AAT’s Continuity of Practice Policy.

Grounds for disciplinary action existed and the matter was suitable for exercise of the Investigations Team's powers under the Disciplinary Regulations.

Janet Abel is hereby:

1. Expelled from AAT for a period of five years
2. Warned that any future application to reinstate her AAT membership will be subject to a fit and proper assessment
3. Warned that any future application for an AAT licence will be subject to a practice assurance review at her own expense. 

Consent