iCOFA – The COFA Institute [1] is part of The Institute of Legal Finance & Management (ILFM) which is the leading education and membership organisation in the legal sector, supporting legal finance, compliance, and practice management professionals across England, Wales, & Northern Ireland. We’re a non-profit organisation – not driven by commercial gain.
It provides qualifications, training, knowledge, support and information for anyone working in legal accounts, compliance and law firm management. Our members include legal cashiers, accounts managers, practice managers, Financial Directors, CEO’s, Partners, MLRO & MLCO’s, and sole practitioners, and is the natural fit professional institute for Compliance Officers for Finance and Administration (COFAs).
We offer recognised professional qualifications, regular training on issues relevant to the industry, regulatory information, and many support features and services including an industry professional journal. The ILFM has become the professional membership of choice for thousands of leading professionals in the legal & accounts sector, including many considering a new career in the legal sector.
The ILFM is dedicated to driving innovation, advancing education, and promoting excellence throughout the legal sector. Our training and education programs aim to raise awareness, advocate good business practice, and maintain high standards to ensure that clients’ money and assets are protected and treated ethically, as well as protecting the law firms and their employees at the same time.
We enjoy a close and robust working relationship with legal sector regulators, but we remain completely independent in our activities and in our advice to members.
The top reason people join is to stay up to date with industry developments. This includes keeping informed about the latest changes in legal finance, compliance, and regulations, which helps them perform their roles effectively and maintain high standards of professionalism.
Why it matters
COFAs are central to ensuring law firms meet Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) standards. From breach reporting to financial oversight, your work is the backbone of trust and transparency in legal practice.
Yet COFAs often work in isolation. That’s where we come in.
The COFA Institute offers a space where compliance is not just a duty—but a shared commitment to excellence. We equip you with the tools, training, and community to thrive in your role and elevate your firm’s compliance culture.”